National Parks of Taiwan

Interpretation is a way of bringing people closer to the locality. In the past, people generally pictured interpreters as adults, but now there is another option. Kinmen National Park Headquarters began training “little interpreters” in 2007; people of all ages can have a passion for serving the society, and everyone can learn more about their hometown and participate in the affairs of Kinmen National Park. This volunteer interpreter service will make children voluntarily learn and provide interpretation and consultation services, inspiring love for nature and environment and resource conservation at a young age. Rushan Visitor Center in Kinmen National Park has a vibrant décor and displays, many of which are interactive, and was thus selected as the base for little interpreters to make their debut. Elementary school students have less pressure to enter a higher school, so Kinmen National Park Headquarters asked local elementary schools to recommend passionate, independent and friendly students who can speak clearly. Students that qualified averaged 10~12 years old. The students take courses on the five display areas of Rushan Visitor Center after being selected, including: World of Plants, World of Birds, Tidal Zone Biology, Bottom of Lakes, and Whales and Dolphins. Experts in each field were invited to teach the courses, providing the best resources, both human and material, for little interpreters. “Little interpreters” are up! These courses develop skills of local students and help them to become better acquainted with their hometown. Kinmen National Park has an abundance of resources, and Rushan Visitor Center is a popular attraction in Kinmen. Students that serve as interpreters better understand the local natural environment and culture, and the younger siblings of many students also join the ranks of little interpreters once they reach a higher age. These students lead their little brothers and sisters in service and pass on their experience, helping them learn even faster. Students who are interested will continue to voluntarily provide service, building a relationship with Kinmen through interpretation from a young age. Little interpreters are currently in a learning stage and learn very fast. Their hard working and responsible attitude have left a good impression with tourists and adult interpreters. A total of 180 students have participated in the “Little Interpreter” training project since the first year it was implemented, and the experience of introducing Kinmen National Park is one they will never forget. “Little interpreters” were first trained by Taroko National Park, and many national parks have followed in its footsteps, training a new generation of interpreters who can come in contact with nature and culture. Don’t forget to give these “little interpreters” a few words of encouragement when you see them.