Session 2: 15:00-17:00 UTC, November 23, 2023
Martha Washington does not speak Swedish: Why Words Work (or Don’t)
Elizabeth Keaney
Museum Educator
Washington DC, U.S.A.
Session 2: 15:00-17:00 UTC, November 23, 2023
Martha Washington does not speak Swedish: Why Words Work (or Don’t)
Elizabeth Keaney
Museum Educator
Washington DC, U.S.A.
Field of Presentation
History
Session Proposal
How can interpreters portraying historic persons effectively communicate with modern audiences who may or may not speak and understand English proficiently? What approach can best support visitor engagement and learning when participants don't share a common language? Join museum educator, and former Martha Washington interpreter at George Washington's Mount Vernon, Elizabeth Keaney to explore the possibilities and pitfalls of language in Character Interpretation.
Professional Bio
With more than 20 years’ experience in museum education, Ms. Keaney offers thoughtful and intentional insight to the field. Having worked in history, art, and multidisciplinary museums across the North American continent she believes that museums have the capacity to change lives and maybe even save the world.