An interpretation design pattern language: A propostional conceptual tool for interdisciplinary team members working on interpretation design projects.

Ideas and information about natural and cultural heritage are communicated through the designed interface of interpretation. Interpretation design has emerged as a new field of design as graphic designers work on complex, large-scale projects that communicate about natural and cultural heritage sites and objects. Research into designer's contribution to interpretation projects indicates the need for a better dialogue between designers and other team professionals. This paper introduces a 'pattern language' methodology, which proposes a shared language for use by interdisciplinary teams working on interpretation. Interviews with designers and a synthesis of research findings from the fields of interpretation, education, visitor studies and psychology inform the construction of the pattern language. Articulating shared concepts from these disciplines as a common pattern language aims to strengthen the professional practice nexus between the fields of design and interpretation.