Participatory Learning Experience (PLE)

UO undergraduates can earn upper-division credit and gain valuable work experience through the museum's Participatory Learning Experience (PLE) program.

PUBLIC PROGRAMS PLE

The museum is looking for motivated undergraduate students to participate in its Public Programs Participatory Learning Experience (PLE) program starting in Fall term. A select group of students will earn one (1) credit/term and have in depth exposure to museum’s public programs and the natural and cultural history of Oregon. Students are trained to interpret in the exhibit hall, guide tour groups, and assist with special programs and events. This is a great opportunity for students interested in the museum field, interpretation, and informal education.

Requirements:

Students earn one (1) credit per term by fulfilling 40 hours in the museum’s Public Programs division. Students can complete their hours as interpreters in the exhibit halls, helping with special events, and/or leading education programs for visiting school groups.
A minimum two-term commitment is required and the first term should be in the Fall when training sessions are offered.
During the first term of service, students are required to participate in training sessions that occur on Sundays in October 2025: October 5,12, 19, and 26 from 1:00 – 4:00pm.

Public Programs PLE students are accepted on an interview basis. Please submit an application to be considered.

Questions? Call 541-346-5019 or email miaj@uoregon.edu.

ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESEARCH DIVISION PLE

Archaeological Laboratory Research

In this 2-credit PLE, students will learn the basics of archaeological laboratory processing, cataloging systems, and analysis of lithic and historic-era artifacts. Lab research will proceed in two phases. In Phase I, students will unpack, clean, sort, identify, and catalog artifacts recovered from the Applegate Site, a contact-era property that was home to Charles and Melinda Applegate and was also the location of the summer encampment of Kalapuya Chief Camafeema and the Komemma people. Phase II will focus on artifact research and analysis.

Requirements:

Students earn two (2) credits per term by fulfilling 80 hours.
Schedules will be set at the beginning of the term.

Archaeological Research Division PLE students are accepted on an interview basis. Please submit an application to be considered.

Questions? Email jaimeken@uoregon.edu.

COLLECTIONS AND RESEARCH PLE

If you're interested in a PLE in our collections or research divisions, please contact them directly:

Anthropological Collections
Pamela Endzweig: 541-346-5120 or endzweig@uoregon.edu

Paleontological Collections and Research
Edward Davis: 541-346-3461 or edavis@uoregon.edu

Archaeological Research
Jaime Kennedy: 541-346-3033 or jaimeken@uoregon.edu

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