Docent Information

New Docent Orientation Aug. 25, 2008 Send in your docent application today!

 

DOCENT PROGRAM
Do you like people? Especially children? Do you like to teach or tell stories? Consider becoming a docent! You can become a docent in the Education Division.

WHAT IS A DOCENT?
A docent is a volunteer educator, traditionally associated with museums. They give tours of our exhibits and present thematic programs to community groups.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING A DOCENT-LED PRESENTATION?
The purpose of every presentation is to bring anthropological concepts and information to the wider public. This is done via informal lectures as well as hands-on objects and activities. The presentations last about one hour and the groups are limited to thirty.

WHO IS OUR AUDIENCE?
We serve a wide audience, but the majority consists of schoolchildren.

WHAT TYPES OF PROGRAMS ARE THERE?
There are approximately twelve different programs in our repertoire. The themes include Southwest Archaeology, Native American Ethnology, Hispanic Ethnology, World Music and Evolution. Each docent is familiar with at least two.

DO YOU NEED PRIOR EXPERIENCE?
NO! We train all prospective docents.

WHAT DOES TRAINING INVOLVE?
Training involves attendance at workshops, demonstrations and lectures given by experts in the fields of anthropology and education. We provide instructional resources and mentorship from senior docents. However it is the prospective docent that provides the dedication to study and assimilate the information.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
COMMITMENT After completing all training sessions, a docent pledges four hours per week for a period of two years.
TRAVEL Local travel is involved. A docent must have access to an automobile.
CONTINUING EDUCATION All docents are obliged to continue growing and learning. The Maxwell Museum offers a number of educational opportunities throughout the year.
PRACTICE Expect to practice, practice, practice!

BENEFITS OF VOLUNTEERING
After one year of full service, volunteers receive complimentary membership in the Maxwell Museum Association. Members receive discounts at all Public Programs and in the Museum Store. Members also have borrowing privileges at the Clark Field Library.

THE REWARDS?
In addition to the standard volunteer benefits, the teachers appreciate you. But more importantly, the children love you!

For more information on Docent Program and other volunteer opportunities contact:

Maxwell Museum of Anthropology
MSC01 1050
1 University of New Mexico
Albuquerque, NM 87131-0001