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Disclaimer
This blog was created for ENVS*3000 Winter 2024, University of Guelph.
The opinions expressed here represent my own and not those of the University of Guelph.
The University of Guelph is not responsible for the accuracy of any of the information supplied by this blog.
ethics as an interpreter
As I embark on my journey as a nature interpreter, I find myself being guided by mainly my personal beliefs and responsibilities. This ethical base is a compass that leads me towards more understanding and appreciation.
One of my personal beliefs lies in the interconnectedness of life forms and our ecosystems. I view nature as a vital part of our existence as it is and deserves respect for its beauty, importance and abilities and should thus not be seen as separate from humanity. This belief fuels my passion for being a nature interpreter as I strive to convey interconnectedness to others.
Another huge contributor to my personal ethics is the responsibility I feel towards both the natural world and the people I engage with as an interpreter. I find myself to be a mediator between these two and thus it is my responsibility to bridge the gap between us humans and the rest of the beautiful natural world. Along with this role comes the duty to inspire and install a sense of wonder. Through fostering a deeper connection to nature in these individuals I can empower them to become advocates for environmental conservation and sustainability as well and spread awareness.
Through fulfilling my responsibilities of being a nature interpreter, there are a few approaches that reflect my personal ethics. First, prioritizing authenticity in my interactions with the audience and natural world is a top priority as I strive to ensure the information being presented is accurate and clear so that everyone is able to understand and acknowledge the importance and complexity of our ecological systems.
I also embrace a holistic and interdisciplinary approach to nature interpretation through insights from ecology and history. This is because I have taken a variety of history in the environment and animals in history courses as well as a field ecology course that helped me connect to nature on an even deeper level and sharing these insights with others will help resonate on a more intellectual and emotional level.
Lastly, I am committed to ensuring that everyone is able to enjoy nature. Ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to experience the transformative power of nature regardless of their background or circumstances is my top priority.
As I continue to develop as a nature interpreter it is also important that I learn and grow with it and am mindful of the evolving nature and am open to new ideas, perspectives and experiences that challenge and deepen my understanding of the environment. My main goal is to inspire others to discover, reflect and act towards a more harmonious relationship with our natural world.
I'm truly inspired by your journey and the ethical compass that guides you as a nature interpreter. Your deep respect for the interconnectedness of life and ecosystems resonates with me profoundly. It's a reminder that we, as humans, are not separate entities from nature but an integral part of it. Your commitment to bridging the gap between humanity and the natural world is not only commendable but necessary in today's world where disconnection from nature is all too common.
Your approach to nature interpretation, emphasizing authenticity, interdisciplinary insights, and inclusivity, is a powerful model for how we can all engage with the natural world more thoughtfully and responsibly. The idea of using history and ecology to deepen our understanding and appreciation of nature is particularly fascinating. It's a reminder that every plant, animal, and microorganism has a story that's intertwined with our own.
I am especially moved by your dedication to making nature accessible to everyone, regardless of background or circumstances. This inclusivity is crucial for building a more environmentally conscious and sustainable future. Your work empowers individuals to become advocates for the environment, fostering a collective sense of responsibility towards conservation and sustainability.
Your closing thoughts on the importance of being open to new ideas, perspectives, and experiences highlight the dynamic and ever-evolving relationship we have with the natural world. It's a poignant reminder that our journey of understanding and appreciation of nature is never complete; there is always more to learn, explore, and advocate for.
Thank you for sharing your insights and for the vital work you are doing as a nature interpreter. You are not only enhancing people's understanding of the environment but also inspiring meaningful action towards a more harmonious and sustainable relationship with our planet. Your passion and dedication are a beacon of hope and a call to action for us all.
Final Blog
Throughout this course, I have developed not only as a person but also as a nature interpreter, and as I continue to change into a nature interpreter in whatever form that may take, I want to bring a few personal ethics with me. The first ethic is that I want my love and passion for nature always to be evident. Interpreting often involves sharing facts and telling history, which is highly informative. If done correctly and with good interpretation in mind, it should also connect with people and boost their view of the world through a sharing of passion (Beck et al., 2018, Chapter 5). It is also vital for me to carry the love of nature and work to have others fall in love with nature the same way I did. I believe love for something initiates learning, solving problems, and protecting fundamental issues in a changing world with many environmental and ecological challenges. Love is also where many children begin to learn; they develop a love for nature and then grow to learn more about complex concepts and ideas (Rodenburg, 2019). Lastly, I want to ensure that I continue to learn and encourage others to continue to learn. There is endless knowledge to be had, and I want to encourage people to realize that it is never too late to stop learning.
As I work towards becoming an experienced nature interpreter, I want to bring a few beliefs with me, beginning with the fact that everyone wants to learn and sometimes just needs more help. Many people have barriers such as being too busy, physical or mental ailments or lack of financial ability (Beck et al., 2018, Chapter 6). Despite barriers, everyone can participate in nature interpretation and continue to learn more about the world around us. I also believe in sparking joy with participants. Making people fall in love with nature is the key to handling more significant issues such as climate change.
Being a nature interpreter involves many responsibilities ranging from the goals of interpretation and spreading a message to ensuring inclusion for everyone. Along with many responsibilities, I think a few take the cake for importance, and I would like to focus on these. The most important responsibility is creating an inclusive environment that is supportive of learning for everyone. You can have a fantastic message and interpretive performance, but if not everyone can see or experience it, then there is no point. A critical aspect of this is accessibility. If someone is blind, I have to ensure they have components they can participate in, such as having brail pamphlets or information boards; if someone is in a wheelchair, I need to provide either an accessible, safe walk or, if that is not possible provide an online component offering the same experience (Beck et al., 2018, Chapter 6; Beck et al., 2018, Chapter 6). It is also important for me to include people of all ethnicities and races, whether through hiring a diverse team of individuals or being aware of different individuals with differing beliefs on religion, history or politics (Beck et al., 2018, Chapter 5). It is also crucial to get to know my group before beginning to interpret (Beck et al., 2018, Chapter 6). Talk to them, hear their perspectives and change my program depending on the discussion (Beck et al., 2018, Chapter 6). Understanding the people you are interpreting is key to sharing your message with them. My last key responsibility involves creating an effective interpretation program. I have to be able to pick out unique features of a place, relate them to the common person and create a bigger picture and sense of place through an enjoyable, organized method (Beck et al., 2018, Chapter 5; Beck et al., 2018, Chapter 1). Ensuring that the entire story is shared by including history is essential to avoid only relaying parts of the pieces (Beck et al., 2018, Chapter 5). Overall, there are many responsibilities when interpreting. However, the most important thing to me is getting to know the people with whom you share your message to tell a story effectively.
Everyone is different, which makes nature interpretation fun because everyone brings different experiences, passions and abilities. When it comes to interpreting, I will be sure to include as many multiple intelligences as possible to try to reach all learners. However, I have a few that I think I would be best at, and those are bodily-kinesthetic, naturalistic and musical. I learn the best through these types, and I feel I can relate to learners who are similar to me. Using hands-on experiences out in nature is an easy way of teaching because this is how I learn. The same goes for musicals, as I remember lyrics and sounds well. I can use music to connect audience members to what I am interpreting. I also feel that I can connect with people very well. I have always been more of an introvert who would rather sit back and watch other people than be the one in the spotlight. This gives me an advantage when getting to know the audience, like what they are interested in, their barriers or why they are there. I can then tailor my interpretation to suit the audience best, allowing them to get the most out of the program (Beck et al., 2018, Chapter 6). Another approach that I would be effective at using is art. I have always connected with art and have been creative growing up. Art is used to help convey messages, remember facts, and set tones (Beck et al., 2018, Chapter 10). By using pieces of nature to make art, using art mediums to draw or recreate nature, or using music, I can effectively interpret and add more to a program. One last approach I want to use, as I think it suits me, is using history to change perspectives and give a place more meaning (Beck et al., 2018, Chapter 15). I never used to be interested in history and thought it was boring; however, I have recently begun to change my opinion, and I see the value in it being used. I want to share this newfound passion with people and use history to create and tell a complete story about a place. I want them to imagine the place in it is past and understand how it has changed to where it is now and why that change has been important. This could be incredibly important when discussing topics such as climate change, where landscape changes can be seen through things like glaciers receding.
Nature interpretation will look different for everyone as we bring unique perspectives, assets and passion to the field. I want to know how you think nature interpretation will be incorporated into your life in the future.
References:
Beck, L. Cable, T. T. & Knudson, D. M. Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage: For a Better World. Available from: Sagamore Publishing LLC, Sagamore Publishing LLC, 2018.
Rodenburg, J. (2019). Why environmental educators shouldn’t give up hope. Environmental Literacy. https://clearingmagazine.org/archives/14300.
Hey there! I loved reading your reflections on your journey towards becoming a nature interpreter. Your personal ethics and beliefs are truly inspiring and reflect a deep understanding of the importance of connecting with nature on an emotional level.
I particularly appreciated your commitment to inclusivity and accessibility in nature interpretation. By recognizing and addressing barriers to learning and participation, you're making sure that everyone has access to the beauty and importance of nature, regardless of their background or situation.
Your approach to utilizing multiple intelligences in your interpretation strategy is also really thoughtful. By tailoring your methods to include different ways of learning, you're creating a personalized and engaging experience for your audience.
Lastly, I loved how self-aware you are and how you're leveraging your strengths to better connect with your audience. It's such an important part of effective teaching and interpretation.
Overall, your journey and the ethics you aspire to uphold in your role as a nature interpreter are truly admirable. Keep up the amazing work and continue to share your passion for nature with the world!
Personal Ethics
As I develop as a nature interpreter, my personal ethic is deeply rooted in a desire to make a positive change in an ever-evolving world. I am driven by the aspiration to inspire others to deepen their knowledge and understanding of the natural world, emphasizing that we are a part of nature, not just co-inhabitants of our planet. My beliefs are centered around the critical importance of animal conservation and rehabilitation strategies, focusing on addressing and mitigating major concerns such as habitat destruction, poaching, and the impact of roadways on wildlife. I am committed to exploring and sharing ways to overcome these barriers, aiming to reflect the knowledge and experiences I've gained to inspire others.
I acknowledge the responsibilities that come with this role, including the duty to convey accurate information, foster a sense of stewardship towards the environment, and engage people from diverse backgrounds in meaningful discussions about conservation (Beck, et. al., 2018). My approach to fulfilling these responsibilities leans towards leveraging written and published work, as I find my strengths more pronounced in these areas compared to verbal communication (Beck, et. al., 2018). I am also keen on utilizing visual signs and signage as effective tools for interpretation, believing that these methods can powerfully convey messages about conservation and the natural world (Beck, et. al., 2018).
The preface of the textbook, Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage, highlights the multifaceted role of interpreters, who are tasked with transforming facts into engaging stories and experiences (Beck, et. al., 2018). This resonates with my ethic, as I see the value in using various media, including blogs, social media, and exhibits, to reach and educate a wider audience (Beck, et. al., 2018). Interpreters are described as ambassadors, a role I embrace by striving to serve as a bridge between the natural world and the public, encouraging a deeper appreciation and understanding of our planet's biodiversity (Beck, et. al., 2018).
The ideals of interpretation stress the importance of offering experiences that involve and resonate with visitors, promoting values such as peace, beauty, truth, diversity, and sustainability. These ideals align with my belief in the power of interpretation to inspire individual growth and communal action towards a better world. The philosophy of interpretation, with its focus on sharing the wonder and beauty of life, guides my approach to engaging with audiences and fostering a collective sense of responsibility towards environmental conservation.
In the context of environmental education, the challenges of climate change, habitat destruction, and biodiversity loss underscore the urgency of my mission (Roden, 2019). . Despite the complexities and siloed nature of these issues, I remain hopeful and committed to teaching and empowering the next generation to act (Roden, 2019). . Recognizing the limitations that keep children indoors, I advocate for more opportunities for outdoor learning, believing in the transformative power of direct experiences with nature to cultivate a sense of connection and stewardship among young people (Roden, 2019).
In conclusion, my personal ethic as a nature interpreter is anchored in a commitment to conservation, education, and engagement. By leveraging my strengths in written and visual communication, I aim to contribute to the collective effort to protect and preserve our natural world, inspiring others to join in this crucial endeavour.
References:
Beck, L., Cable, T.T., & Knudson, D.M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: for a better world. Sagamore Publishing.
Roden, J. (2019). Why Environmental Educators Shouldn't Give Up Hope. Clearing. https://clearingmagazine.org/archives/14300
The Enchanting World of Bioluminescence!
Hi friends!!
Welcome back to another week of blogging… I can’t believe this is the 9th week of blogging! Time really does fly.
Today I am going to introduce you all to the captivating and mesmorizing world of Bioluminescence! I remember learning about this in a documentary after seeing photos online of bioluminescent beaches and it is one of the most fascinating phenomenons ever!
To begin, picture this: a moonless night, the ocean gently lapping at the shore, and suddenly, the water bursts into a mesmerizing display of ethereal blue-green light. This is not a scene from a sci-fi movie; it's the magical world of bioluminescence! Bioluminescence is the ability of living organisms to produce light and can be encountered in summer evenings from the flickering lights of fireflies, or in the depths of the ocean from bacteria and sharks (NOAA, 2017).
What truly sets bioluminescence apart is its sheer beauty and versatility. From attracting mates, luring in prey, communicating with fellow organisms or warding off predators, bioluminescence serves a variety of purposes in the natural world (National Geographic, n.d). For example, the vampire squid uses this as a defensive behaviour as instead of ejecting dark ink to defend against predators, they instead eject sticky bioluminescent mucus which can confuse and delay predators (National Geographic, n.d). Additionally, another really cool theory is that some biologists theorize that some species who are not bioluminescent themselves, take advantage of species that are. For example, a sperm whale might surround itself with bioluminescent plankton in order to eat fish who are the planktons predators as their glowing alerts the whale that fish are nearby (National Geographic, n.d). It is so fascinating to me how the language of light can work in such enticing ways.
So, the next time you find yourself under the starry night sky or lurking out into the ocean, remember the hidden world of bioluminescense that lies just beyond our sight. It’s a good reminder that even in the darkest corners of the Earth, there is still light to be seen, illuminating the beauty of the world around us.
To end this blog, I wanted to leave you with a question to ponder... in what ways can we draw inspiration from nature's ability to illuminate even the darkest of places within our own lives? What is the hidden symbolism here?
Thanks for reading and looking forward to hearing back!!!
Natalie
Works Cited
NOAA. (2017). What is bioluminescence? National Ocean Service. https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/biolum.html
National Geographic. (n.d). Bioluminescence is light emitted by living things through chemical reactions in their bodies. National Geographic Education. https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/bioluminescence/
I thoroughly enjoyed reading your blog post on bioluminescence. You have beautifully described the magical world of bioluminescence, which is indeed one of the most fascinating phenomenons ever. Your vivid description of a moonless night, the ocean gently lapping at the shore, and suddenly, the water bursting into a mesmerizing display of ethereal blue-green light, makes me want to experience this magical moment myself.
I appreciate how you have also highlighted the versatility of bioluminescence, from attracting mates, luring in prey, communicating with fellow organisms or warding off predators, bioluminescence serves a variety of purposes in the natural world. It's intriguing to know how some species, who are not bioluminescent themselves, take advantage of species that are, which shows how nature has a way of adapting and using the resources available to it.
Your question about drawing inspiration from nature's ability to illuminate even the darkest of places within our own lives is thought-provoking. Nature has a way of reminding us that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope, and that light can be found within us and around us. We can draw inspiration from nature's ability to adapt and use the resources available to it to overcome challenges and find solutions. Just like bioluminescence in the natural world, we can find ways to illuminate the dark corners of our lives and find beauty in unexpected places!
Thank you for sharing your insights on bioluminescence, and I look forward to reading more of your blog posts in the future!
Embracing Nature's Diversity: Exploring Its Most Incredible Phenomenon
In a world often consumed by the rush of daily life, it is easy to overlook nature's breathtaking diversity. Today, I will shine a spotlight on what I believe to be the most remarkable phenomenon in the natural world: its unparalleled diversity. Join me on a journey as we celebrate the astonishing variety of life on Earth and discover how each of us can forge a deep connection with its wonders.
Nature's diversity is nothing short of incredible and inspiring. From the majestic redwoods of California, reaching skyward and touching the clouds, to the vibrant coral reefs of the Great Barrier Reef, pulsating with life beneath the waters, our planet is home to millions of extraordinary ecosystems, each a masterpiece in its own right. This rich abundance of biodiversity paints a vivid portrait of nature's ingenuity and resilience, captivating our imagination and inviting us to explore its boundless wonders.
Here are some photos from a weekend getaway in Niagara Falls, ON. Look at the diverse array of colours!
There is something for everyone to connect with within this vast assortment of life. Whether it is the graceful flight of a hummingbird or the gentle sway of a towering palm tree, nature speaks to each of us in its unique language. Nature's boundless diversity ensures that there is something for everyone, regardless of age, expertise, or background, inviting all citizens to explore, learn, and connect with its wonders (Beck et al., 2018). In these moments of connection, we find comfort, wonder, and a profound sense of belonging in the world around us.
So, how can we nurture this connection with nature? It begins with simply taking the time to pause, observe, and appreciate the world around us. Whether embarking on a hike through a lush forest or simply marvelling at the intricacies of a single flower, there are countless opportunities to immerse ourselves in nature. By doing so, we enrich our lives and deepen our appreciation for the beauty and complexity of the natural world (Beck et al., 2018).
Moreover, embracing nature's diversity is not just about personal enrichment but also about recognizing our role as stewards of the planet. As we witness the devastating impacts of climate change and habitat destruction, it is more important than ever to take action to protect and preserve our precious natural spaces. Whether supporting conservation initiatives, advocating for environmental policies, or simply making sustainable choices in our daily lives, we have the power to make a difference.
In essence, nature's diversity is its most incredible phenomenon, offering us a window into the richness and complexity of life on Earth. By honouring its magnificence and embracing our connection to it, we not only enrich our own lives but also contribute to the collective well-being of our planet. Let us step outside with open hearts and eager spirits, embarking on a journey of discovery and appreciation amidst the captivating beauty of nature's diverse wonders.
Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For A Better World. Sagamore Publishing.
I couldn't agree more with your thoughts on the unparalleled diversity of nature. Your words paint a vivid picture of the boundless wonders of the natural world, and the importance of taking the time to observe and appreciate its beauty. In a world where we are constantly bombarded by the rush of daily life, it's easy to forget the incredible diversity that surrounds us. Your post serves as a timely reminder to cherish the natural world and explore its wonders.
I especially appreciate your emphasis on the importance of nurturing our connection with nature, and recognizing our role as stewards of the planet. It's crucial that we do everything in our power to protect and preserve our natural spaces, and your suggestions for taking action, whether through supporting conservation initiatives or making sustainable choices in our daily lives, are spot on.
Thank you for sharing your insights and inspiring us to pause, reflect, and connect with the diversity of life on Earth. Your words are a call to action for us all to step outside and embrace the captivating beauty of nature's wonders. I'm curious what actions do you believe we should take to protect and preserve nature's diversity and beauty, and how can we deepen our connection with the natural world in a world where we are constantly on the go?
Fascination of Species Natural Instincts
Have you ever wondered about the incredible natural instincts of animals that allow them to survive in the wild? These instincts are innate behaviors present in animals from birth that are essential to their survival. They have evolved over millions of years to help animals adapt to their environments, and are truly amazing in their complexity.
One of the most fascinating examples of an animal's natural instincts is migration. Every year, millions of birds undertake the incredible feat of flying thousands of miles from their breeding grounds to their wintering grounds. They do this without any guidance or instruction, relying solely on their instincts to guide them. Scientists believe that birds use a combination of magnetic fields, stars, and landmarks to navigate their way across the globe.
Another remarkable example of animal instincts is the herding behavior of dogs. Herding dogs have an innate ability to control the movement of livestock, using their natural instincts to anticipate the movements of the animals and keep them in line. This instinct is so strong that even puppies will begin to display herding behavior at a very young age.
Sea turtles also have incredible instincts that allow them to navigate the open ocean and return to the same beach where they were born to lay their eggs. Scientists believe that sea turtles use a combination of magnetic fields, ocean currents, and the position of the sun and moon to guide them on their long journey.
But natural instincts aren't just limited to migratory animals. Many animals have instincts that help them find food, protect themselves from predators, and even communicate with each other. For example, wolves have the instinct to hunt in packs, using coordinated attacks to take down larger prey. Bees have the instinct to pollinate flowers, which is essential to the survival of many plant species.
The natural instincts of animals are truly amazing in their complexity and diversity, and one of the most fascinating subjects within environmental research (in my opinion). They are an essential part of their survival and have evolved over millions of years to help them adapt to their environments. From migration to herding to hunting, these instincts are what make animals so fascinating and unique. So the next time you observe an animal in the wild, take a moment to appreciate the incredible instincts that allow them to thrive and survive in their natural habitat.
References:
Blumberg M. S. (2017). Development evolving: the origins and meanings of instinct. Wiley interdisciplinary reviews. Cognitive science, 8(1-2), 10.1002/wcs.1371. https://doi.org/10.1002/wcs.1371
Blog 7: Planting musical roots
I believe music in nature is very easy to find. Birds are found on every continent and sea birds such as the Albatross spend most of their life at sea or near water. One could even say that it is very difficult to find a location where birds have not colonized. One of the unique aspects of birds is their mating rituals, which involve multiple dance routines, plumage colors, structures such as nests, and, most importantly, songs.
Male Bowerbird decorating its nest with bright objects to attract a potential mate.
Bird songs and calls are perhaps the most recognizable characteristics of birds apart from their wings and beaks. Many bird species identification books and keys use bird songs and calls to identify the species since you cannot always see a bird, but you can definitely hear it. Characterizing bird songs as music, as defined by humans, tends to be controversial. Musicians, composers, scientists, researchers, and bird experts cannot agree that bird songs are music. One of this week’s assigned papers, ‘The Music of Nature and the Nature of Music’ by Gray et al. (2001) supports that bird songs are music but articles over the years from (2012) and (2023) still showcase that the discussion is ongoing and will likely not reach a concrete conclusion any time soon.
Nature in music is, in my opinion, vague. Can you call a song describing a couple’s divorce, written after the author went on a nature hike as being inspired by nature? Does the song have to mention or explicitly revolve around nature to be considered as a song inspired by nature? I do not know, to be honest, but that’s the beauty of music as an art form, it's subjective, so you can define nature in music however you want.
Plant Wave in progress, where electric singnals from the plant are being converted to music.
Regarding nature in music, I want to talk about a specific type of music or phone application; Plant Wave. Plant Wave is a phone application that converts electrical signals produced by plants into music that plays through the app by using a sensor that is hooked up to the plant. The creator of Plant Wave, Joe Patitucci, has released some songs he has made using plants. I personally find this fascinating since you do not think about plants when it comes to music but Joe Patitucci did, and he has opened a gateway for people to enjoy nature even more through Plant Wave.
My story revolving plant wave is funny as I found one of Joe’s songs on Spotify while listening to a playlist about space themed synthwave music (think about the interstellar movie theme). I found this rather amusing because while looking for music relating to the vastness of space, I ended up back on Earth listening to a plant’s electronic signals instead. This scenario showcases how the reach of nature can be further expanded using media as described by this week’s assigned textbook chapter reading. If Joe had not decided to share his nature experience with the public, I would have never gone down the rabbit hole that was plant wave.
C-A-M-P-F-I-R-E-S-O-N-G song being performed live in public for the first time
As for a song that takes me back to natural landscape, I think about the CAMPFIRE song song (yes it is song song, not a typo) from SpongeBob Squarepants. The whole episode revolves around how camping can be fun and dangerous. Nowadays, whenever I hear camping or campfire, that song immediately comes to my mind, especially the sear bear scene (if you have watched the episode, you know the sea bear scene).
Thank you for sharing your thoughts on the connection between music and nature. It's fascinating to think about how birds' songs and calls are used for species identification, and the controversy surrounding whether or not bird songs can be considered music. I also find the concept of Plant Wave intriguing, as it offers a unique way to connect with nature through music. It's amazing how media can expand our understanding and appreciation of the natural world, as you experienced with Plant Wave and even the CAMPFIRE song from SpongeBob Squarepants.
I believe you took a very unique path through this blog post and I deeply appreciate connecting to different forms of music - beyond those typical listened to on the radio! Im curious what you believe the cause is for the controversy that surrounds bird songs and their classification as music?
The Music in Nature
Music is such a crucial aspect of many people's lives, especially mine. I think music is a powerful thing as it can uplift one's spirit, add to a memory and influence how one interprets nature. I play various kinds of music when I am going on a walk, and when I walk I like to listen to music that calms me down. Listening to this type of music always brings me back to taking a walk through a forest.
Music is all around us, and nature itself has music. Music is seen as “patterns of sound varying in pitch and time produced for emotional, social, cultural and cognitive patterns” (Patrica et al, 2001). This means that animals are constantly making music, whether it is to attract the attention of a mate through a call, or its unique roar to scare off a predator. One example of this is the humpback whale. Humpback whales are known to have a whale song that consists of rhythms similar to that of us, they can even sing in a similar note as well, and are even capable of making different types of noises. Something that I think is cool is that the songs that humpback whales sing are comparable to our music. This is also a learned trait, something that is passed down for generations; this is called vertical musical traditions (Patrica et al, 2001). These traditions are seen in human culture all of the time, I know that I got my love of music from my dad. He used to always listen to music when I was in the womb, and it's why my mom says I was trained to love music before I was even born. Every time I listen to country music it takes me back to driving with my dad blaring music with the windows down. Nature itself is another powerful instrument, for example, the crunching of leaves when animals walk over them. When it comes to music interpretation, how the audience receives the music determines if its music is not (Beck et al, 2018). My friend’s boyfriend will go out to a forest and record waterfalls, the wind whistling during a storm and more sounds to post on YouTube. They are always so well-received because, to some, this is music.
Nature always has a funny way of making it into music. I find that a lot of artists love to use nature references in their songs in the form of metaphors. One artist that I find does this well is Taylor Swift. She has many references to nature throughout her songs such as “all my flowers grew back as thorns” from Call It What You Want It or “a red rose grew up, out of ice frozen ground” from The Lakes. Finnish folk singing does this well as they are known to reflect nature. This type of singing points out nature as more than just a resource, and the lyrics discuss their nature interpretations. The artists will even take nature itself and integrate it into the background track of the song (Mallarach, 2012).
Many songs come to mind when looking back on what may take me back to nature. One of my favorite artists is Novo Amor who is an Indie artist and his song “Anchor” always takes me back to my cottage, lying on my dock, staring at the stars. When interpreting nature, music can be used to deepen the engagement of the audience. By “singing for ecology” music can strengthen nature interpretation (Beck et al, 2018). For me, listening to music always influences how I interpret nature, and I find that my interpretation is enriched by the music playing in my ear.
Nature has always played a crucial role when I am interpreting nature. I will never walk without some type of music playing in my ears, and this music influences my walk dramatically. Music is seen heavily in nature and nature can be found in music. Next time you’re going on a walk or listening to your favorite song I encourage you to find these moments where nature and music come together.
Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For A Better World. (Chapter 10). SAGAMORE Publishing.
Gray, P. M., Krause, B., Atema, J., Payne, R., Krumhansl, C., & Baptista, L. (2001). The music of nature and the nature of music. Science, 291(5501), 52–54. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.10.1126/science.1056960
Mallarach , J.-M. (2012). Spiritual values of protected areas of Europe: Workshop proceedings. Silene.https://www.silene.ong/en/documentation-centre/spiritual-values-of-protected-areas-of-europe-workshop-proceedings#Proceedings_Spiritual%20Values_PAs_Europe.pdf
I loved reading your response to the blog prompt on interpreting nature through art and the gift of beauty! Your passion for both art and nature is so infectious and it's truly inspiring to see how you find joy in capturing the beauty of the world around us in your artwork. I found it really interesting how you touched on the fact that beauty can be subjective and that each person's interpretation of it can be shaped by their own experiences and beliefs. Your reflections on how the arts can be used to communicate scientific concepts to a wider audience were also really insightful and got me thinking.
Thank you so much for sharing your perspective on this topic - it was a joy to read!
In your post, you mentioned the role of the visual and performing arts in communicating scientific concepts. I find this to be a really interesting topic, and I'm curious to know, in your opinion, what are some of the advantages of using the arts to communicate scientific information? Have you personally witnessed any examples of this being done successfully?
The Relationship Between Music and Nature
The relationship between music and nature is a fascinating and timeless one that has captivated audiences from all walks of life. Music and nature's elements have the ability to evoke powerful emotions memories and feelings of nostalgia, and when combined, they create an experience that is truly unforgettable (Beck, et. al., 2018).
The sounds of nature, such as the chirping of birds, the rustling of leaves, and the sound of rushing water, have been used by musicians for centuries to create serene and calming compositions (Beck, et. al., 2018). They have often been commonly used by Humankind as ways to promote serenity - through exercises such as yoga, forest bathing and sleep therapy.
On the other hand, music has been used to evoke the emotions and memories of natural landscapes in its listeners. From Bob Dylan's "Blowin' in the Wind" to John Denver's "Take Me Home, Country Roads," music has the power to transport us to a peaceful and serene natural setting, or provoke memories in which we experienced such.
As such an important tool, music can be utilized by influencers and environmentalist to discuss and make aware of important environmental issues. Music is able to connect to people on an emotional level and therefore, can inspire change. A key example of this is through songs and music videos such as "Earth Song" by Michael Jackson and "Big Yellow Taxi" by Joni Mitchell. These songs raise awareness, in a catchy way, to current environmental topics (i.e. pollution, deforestation, poaching, etc.) Additionally, the use of music in other media types, such as movies like the Lorax, can address these issues for multiple different audiences. The music video for Michael Jackson's "Earth Song" especially captures audiences even more by triggering an emotional connection with the animals facing harm.
Moreover, music can also be used to bring people together for a cause. Commonly, music festivals, concerts, or the gratitudes of the song itself, can be used to raise funds for specific causes. This brings people together and creates a sense of community and inspiration for a collective action to protect the planet and it's species.
One song that stands out in particular to me is "What a Wonderful World" by Louis Armstrong. The song's soothing melody and lyrics create an image of being surrounded by nature, and connects the outside world with humanity. It reminds me that we're part of the circle of life, and connects me to memories of my childhood where my Grandmothers would sing it whilst outside or in church. It's a song that takes me back to a time and place where I felt at peace with the world around us, and it's a feeling that we can all relate to when taking in the appreciation of the natural world.
Incorporating nature's elements into music creates a unique and powerful experience that can bring us closer to the natural world. It's a reminder of the beauty that surrounds us and the importance of preserving it for future generations. So, whether you're a music lover or a nature enthusiast, the connection between music and nature is undeniable and worth exploring.
References:
Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage provides a broad overview of the field of interpretation by introducing interpretation, discussin
Beck, L., Cable, T.T., & Knudson, D.M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: for a better world. Sagamore Publishing.
To learn from the past is to better the future...
This week we were tasked to pull apart and inspect the following quote:
There is no peculiar merit in ancient things, but there is merit in integrity, and integrity entails the keeping together of the parts of any whole, and if these parts are scattered throughout time, then the maintenance of integrity entails a knowledge, a memory, of ancient things. …. To think, feel or act as though the past is done with, is equivalent to believing that a railway station through which our train has just passed, only existed for as long as our train was in it.
(Edward Hyams, Chapter 7, The Gifts of Interpretation)
To start, it makes sense that there is no particular worth in old things like artifacts, however there is worth in integrity, and integrity means keeping together the parts of a whole. This means that in order to maintain the integrity of a historical event, we need to maintain those ancient things that make it what it is. In order to maintain the integrity of the whole, you have to remember why it was ever important in the first place, and that is what makes it important to give merit to the ancient things that make up a whole. In the sciences, we learn about system thinking, and that the whole is merely the sum of its parts. In order to properly remember and interpret history, you have maintain the integrity of all the little things that make that historical event important.
To say that “the past is in the past” is to say that moments are only significant or important if they happen directly to you, and that there is no merit in remembering history, as we weren’t there and therefore it has nothing to do with us. In reality, interpreting history helps us understand ourselves, where we have been and what makes us who we are (Beck and Cable, 2018). History allows us to find inspiration in the stories of creators, leaders and survivors. Interpreting the past gives us the opportunity to learn from others’ mistakes and successes, and create a better future using that knowledge.
One of the most important lessons I took from this week’s content is that we need to always consider when interpreting history is to make sure we are doing so accurately and respectfully. The lessons we can learn from the past can be powerful, and it’s important that we’re portraying the past in the way the story was meant to be told, and avoid bias or personal attachments.
Beck and Cable (2018) said that “every natural site has a history and every historical site has natural resources.” I thought this quote connected this week’s content with past content. Although we have been focused so far mainly on how to interpret nature to others, history and nature have always been intertwined, and it is important as an interpreter to be comfortable with both. Tied into this concept (and every concept) is the impact of privilege that we talked about a few weeks ago. In Canada, it is always important to be aware and mindful that the nature and history that we are interpreting has been skewed by colonialism. One of the most respectful things we can do as interpreters is ensure that the stories we are telling about the history of the land reflects the actual truth.
Besides first-person and third-person interpretation (Beck and Cable, 2018) I think that writing is one of the most common types of interpretation of history (and nature) that we see in the world. All over museums and archives, natural parks and conservation areas, the written word can be found interpreting what you are looking at. Interpreting through the written word makes it possible for there to be an absence of a live interpreter while at the same time forcing a person to pause and interact with the item or place, as well as capture someone’s attention, so that they might learn something new (Hooykaas, 2024). Writing plays an important role in the interpretation of both nature and history, and is also something that helps keep memories alive.
What’s one way you have (or someone you know, or somewhere you’ve been) used writing as a way to interpret nature or history?
One way I interpret through writing is to write down important memories I’ve had (both good and bad) and that way I can go back and reminisce or pull guidance from an experience I’ve lived through :)
- All for now!
Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For A Better World. SAGAMORE Publishing.
(Edward Hyams, Chapter 7, The Gifts of Interpretation)
Hooykaas, A. (2024). Unit 06: Nature Interpretation through History. [Lecture notes]. ENVS3000 Nature Interpretation. University of Guelph.
Hey there!
I loved reading your thoughts on interpreting history and nature. It's so important to maintain the integrity of the whole by remembering the little things that make up a historical event. I agree that interpreting history helps us understand ourselves, where we have been, and what makes us who we are. It's fascinating to learn from other people's experiences and use that knowledge to create a better future.
I also appreciate your point on the importance of accuracy and respect when interpreting history. It's crucial to portray the past in the way the story was meant to be told and avoid bias or personal attachments. As interpreters, it's our responsibility to ensure that the stories we're telling about the history of the land reflect the actual truth.
I agree that writing is an essential tool for interpreting both nature and history. It's a great way to capture someone's attention and make them pause and interact with the item or place. Writing plays a vital role in keeping memories alive and ensuring that history is not forgotten.
To answer your question, I interpret through writing by journaling my experiences and thoughts about the nature around me, but I also end up doodling a lot of it as well. It helps me reflect on my experiences and gain a deeper understanding of the world around me.
Thanks for sharing your insights, and I look forward to hearing more from you!
Importance of Interpreting History
Hi everyone!
Welcome back to another blog!
In today’s blog, I will unpacking the quote by Edward Hyams stating, “There is no peculiar merit in ancient things, but there is merit in integrity, and integrity entails the keeping together of the parts of any whole, and if these parts are scattered throughout time, then the maintenance of integrity entails a knowledge, a memory, of ancient things. …. To think, feel or act as though the past is done with, is equivalent to believing that a railway station through which our train has just passed, only existed for as long as our train was in it.”
As I read this quote over and over again, trying to really grasp the sense of what he was trying to imply and express, I believe that this quote can be understood in many different ways depending on how you want to see it. In the first part of the quote, I believe he was trying to express how the importance and goodness of history and ancient things is not necessarily the history in itself, but rather the togetherness, the knowledge and the memories that come from it and how it is passed throughout time. For example, chapter 15 of the textbook explains that it's important to interpret history as, “Interpretation breathes life and meaning into past events, architecture, and artifacts. In doing so, it nurtures the development of a personal identity as individuals hear inspiring or thought-provoking stories of the past, and it forms values to guide living in the present” (Back, 2018). Meaning that, the importance of history and old buildings or museums is not the architecture itself, but rather how we remember history and keep the past alive in order to create our future and share these memories.
The second part of the quote I believe represents the idea that we cannot define our own ‘history’ or ‘tracks’ simply by only considering the railways that we’ve been on…for our history extends beyond the present and the past is made up of the tracks that got us here. In the larger picture of the world, I believe this holds true in issues such as discrimination or war that were large conflicts of the past throughout history that created the world we live in today. To remember not only the happy stories of our past but also the tragic ones are what makes interpreting history so important. In my own life, the idea of things such as my great grandmother's wedding ring or my grandfather's artifacts from when he was in the army being passed down through generations comes to mind. It is not necessarily the wedding ring or the artifacts that are important to have, but more so the meaning and the stories behind them that show where I came from and how the lives of those before me have lived.
As nature interpreters, I believe this is an important idea as it's our job to make an impact on people’s lives to become a part of their history. To help people see how history relates to their own lives by telling stories of the past is a way to help people remember and keep memories alive. To extend beyond merely what is physically present and instead create lasting feelings and memories. Can you think of any historical artifacts, buildings, etc that have made you remember memories or moments from the past? How has history shaped you into the person you are today?
I look forward to hearing back from you!
Natalie :)
Beck, L., Cable, T.T., & Knudson, D.M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: for a better world. Sagamore Publishing.
Hey there!
I couldn't agree more with your post on the importance of interpreting history. History is such a fascinating subject, and interpreting it can help us learn from our past, shape our future, and understand our identity and community.
Interpreting history isn't just about entertainment, it's about forming values that guide our lives. By bringing the past to life and making it relevant to the present, we can better understand the significance of past events and how they have shaped the world we live in today. This helps us to build a sense of community by preserving the collective memories, stories, and traditions of a community. Plus, by interpreting local history, we can contribute to economic development and make our communities better places to live and work.
Remembering the past is also important, so we can learn from our mistakes and honour the sacrifices of those who came before us. However, it's essential to approach historical interpretation with care and critical thinking. There's always a risk of misinterpretation or misrepresentation of historical events, which can lead to misunderstandings and perpetuation of harmful stereotypes (Beck, et. al., 2018). Therefore, we must encourage diverse perspectives and voices in the interpretation of history to avoid biased interpretations.
Overall, interpreting history is a complex field that can teach us so much about ourselves and our world. By preserving the past, we can shape our future and continue to learn and grow as a society. What do you think about historical interpretation? Do you have any favorite historical events or figures that you like to study?
Beck, L., Cable, T.T., & Knudson, D.M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: for a better world. Sagamore Publishing.
Historical Interpretation & Edward Hyam's
History is a subject that has many facets and is fascinating to learn. It can educate, entertain, and persuade. However, the true beauty of history lies in its interpretation. Interpreting history means delving deep into the past to understand it better, making it relevant to the present, and shaping the future (Beck, et. al., 2018).
Historical interpretation is not just about fun and entertainment, it's about learning from our past and forming values to guide our lives (Beck, et. al., 2018). By interpreting history, we can understand the significance of past events and how they have shaped the world we live in today. It helps us to build a sense of identity and community by preserving the collective memories, stories, and traditions of a community (Beck, et. al., 2018). By interpreting local history, we can also contribute to economic development and a better quality of life, making our communities more meaningful places to live and work (Beck, et. al., 2018).
Another important reason to interpret history is to remember. We must remember not only the happy stories of our past, but also the tragic ones. By remembering the past, we can learn from our mistakes and avoid repeating them in the future. We can also honor the sacrifices of those who came before us and preserve their legacies (Beck, et. al., 2018).
"There is no peculiar merit in ancient things, but there is merit in integrity, and integrity entails the keeping together of the parts of any whole, and if these parts are scattered throughout time, then the maintenance of integrity entails a knowledge, a memory, of ancient things. …. To think, feel or act as though the past is done with, is equivalent to believing that a railway station through which our train has just passed, only existed for as long as our train was in it." - Edward Hyams, Chapter 7, The Gifts of Interpretation
Edward Hyam's quote emphasizes the value of integrity and memory in maintaining the parts of a whole, even if they are dispersed over time. This means that we should try to preserve our heritage and remember our past so that we can learn from it and create a better future. By remembering the past, we can integrate ancient things into the present and future, maintaining the integrity of the whole. This quote highlights the importance of integrity and the role that knowledge and memory of the past play in maintaining it. The speaker argues that there is no inherent value in old or ancient things, but rather it is the integrity of a whole that is important. This integrity can only be maintained if the various parts that make up the whole are kept together, and this requires an understanding and appreciation of the past.
Hyam's continues to go on to draw an analogy between the past and a railway station, suggesting that to believe the past is irrelevant is akin to thinking that a station only exists for as long as a train is passing through it. I believe this highlights the short-sightedness of ignoring the past and the importance of recognizing that the present is built upon the foundations of what has come before.
Overall, the quote emphasizes the value of integrity and the need to maintain it through an understanding and appreciation of the past. It suggests that the past should not be simply discarded or dismissed, but rather should be remembered and used as a guide for the present and the future.
Interpreting history is a fascinating and essential art that requires detailed analysis and understanding. By interpreting history, we can learn from our past, form values to guide our lives, and build a sense of identity and community. It is essential to remember our past, honour the sacrifices of those who came before us, and preserve their legacies. However, it's not just about studying the past, it's about bringing it to life and making it relevant to the present. By interpreting history, we can learn so much and shape our own future. So, what are your thoughts on historical interpretation? Do you think it's important to remember and interpret the past?
Reference:
Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage provides a broad overview of the field of interpretation by introducing interpretation, discussin
Beck, L., Cable, T.T., & Knudson, D.M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: for a better world. Sagamore Publishing.
05: The ways nature has impacted me? (free prompt)
I believe that spending time in nature offers numerous physical, mental, and emotional benefits. During the summer, I have complete access to nature trails and may spend countless hours outdoors. There may be obstacles such as weather and restricted access to these areas in the winter for our own safety. During the academic year, I attributed my lack of drive to a lack of time spent outside. I find that when I lose motivation, my other positive behaviours fall out of sync. I spend less time exercising, my dietary intake becomes more unhealthy, my sleep schedule becomes disorganized, and I feel inconsistent.
This year, I decided to take control of my winter, knowing that these changes usually occur during this time of year. I wanted to find strategies to maintain a balanced diet, get enough and high-quality sleep, and have a regular gym regimen while also attending school and maintaining good grades. So I'd like to share some changes I made to my routine to ensure improved habits.
My first major shift was to devote 30-60 minutes every day to outside activities. Now, I cannot say that I do this every day without fail, but I have been able to do so at least 5 days per week. It helps me to organize my thoughts without having to focus on schoolwork. During this period, I would either softly jog to get some physical activity in or take a walk along the trails in my neighbourhood. I would listen to a podcast, whether it was about amusement, learning, motivation, or self-discipline, to help pass the time. I believe this helped me relieve some of my tension and allowed me to unplug from school.
As we discussed several times throughout the course, the nature trails within the Aboretum made incorporating this practice into my day a breeze. After class, before leaving for home, I take a little walk through the Aboretum to reorganize after a few hours of classes. I sometimes have friends join me, which makes it much more pleasurable because we spend the most of our time on campus together studying. If you don't already, I recommend using the Arboretum to break up your day and get your mind off of school.
I also told myself this year that I would keep a consistent sleep routine. To ensure that I am properly refreshed, I try to get at least 8 hours of sleep each night. Again, are there times when I don't get a complete 8 hours? Of course. However, for the most part, I have been able to prioritize my personal health over academics, and I no longer have to pull all-nighters to complete projects. This has not only allowed me to be properly rested, but it has also taught me how to better manage my time during the day, decrease screen time, and focus on the tasks at hand.
As a fellow student, I understand how tough it is to maintain healthy habits when there are so many assignments due each week, but it is critical that we remember to take care of ourselves. You may even discover that prioritizing your personal health during the school year has an impact on your academic performance. Can any of you think of a moment when you implemented new habits and saw improvements in your daily life?
I completely agree with your perspective on the importance of spending time in nature. Sometimes, we get so caught up in our daily routines that we forget to take a break and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us. I'm glad to hear that you have found a way to incorporate nature walks into your routine to stay motivated and focused, and it's inspiring to see how you have made positive changes to prioritize your personal health despite the workload of the academic year.
I think it's great that you have devoted 30-60 minutes every day to outside activities. Research has shown that spending time in nature can lead to numerous physical, mental, and emotional benefits, including reduced stress levels, improved mood, and increased creativity. Moreover, it's a great way to unplug from schoolwork and organize your thoughts. I also like your idea of listening to a podcast during your walks to help pass the time. It's a great way to learn something new while enjoying the outdoors.
I also appreciate your focus on maintaining a consistent sleep routine. Getting enough high-quality sleep is crucial for our physical and mental well-being, and it's great to see that you are prioritizing your personal health over academics. I find this point particularly difficult, as I have always struggled with "turning my mind off" at night since I was young, I've always been a night owl or lack sleep.
I think it's important to remember that taking care of ourselves is not selfish, but rather essential for our overall well-being. By prioritizing our personal health, we can actually improve our academic performance as we are more focused and energized throughout the day. Your experience is a great reminder for all of us to take care of ourselves, especially during stressful periods like the academic year.
Personally, I find a routine to be one of the greatest ways for myself to excel in balancing school and mental health. I like to be able to balance physical/mental health activities with schoolwork, whereas my mornings are set up to promote physical health by walking my dog Luna and working out afterwards, and my afternoons are comprise of mainly school. This routine works fairly well depending on the amount of coursework I have to do, and allows me to feel accomplished by the end of the day and promote greater sleep by being physically and mentally tired!
References:
Beck, L., Cable, T.T., & Knudson, D.M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: for a better world. Sagamore Publishing.
Unit 5: Bits and Bobs
Reading there was no prompt this week was thrilling! I'm not as enthused after trying to rewrite this post 3 times, each with different topics. Taking a break from this weekly task, I scrolled through my camera roll as I do pretty often. I enjoy making albums on my phone like I do Spotify playlists. Scrolling through the albums today, I looked at one I do from time to time titled Bits and Bobs.
In the hustle and bustle of my life, I don't recall sitting and having a moment for myself, jumping between school, sports practices, volunteering, school clubs, homework, dinner and sleep. Repeat. My weeks were a cycle I could not escape. When I reached Grade 12, I was burnt out. My mind was consumed by how I was possibly going to write my IB exams worth 80% of my grade and balance all of the extracurriculars overflowing on my plate. Then, on March 13, 2020, everything in my life halted. For the first time since I was 5, I had no obligations! I could do ANYTHING I wanted, yet nothing crossed my mind. To be fair, like most people, my options were limited to my neighbourhood. For the first 3 months, I watched TV like it was my job. Honestly, it was ideal that I finally took a break to sit down and relax. However, once summer rolled around, and I quit my job as a couch potato, I enjoyed being outside the most, partly because I had spent 3 months indoors watching TV and partly because I had never had the opportunity to spend much time outside before. Whether riding my bike with my mom or going to the Escarpment with my dad, it was so far removed from anything I had ever done before. In this slower-paced environment, I discovered activities I had not realized I enjoyed. Further from these activities, I started to find value in being present, acknowledging the time and place I occupied, and taking everything in like a sponge. Importantly, what I can see, hear, touch, smell and taste. These became my bits and bobs.
Since embarking on university, it has been challenging to pause and catch my breath when my thoughts are racing with the numerous assignments I have to complete. In times like midterm season, I can't help but think how common it is for people to get caught up in the routine of their daily lives without taking the time to savor the present moment truly. Writing this blog post now and reflecting on 2020 reminds me that it is important to value the small moments of peace and contentment that I encounter day to day. For me, these seemingly insignificant "bits and bobs" are reminders to pause and reflect, urging me to slow down and find peace in the simple moments of life.
Hi there!
I just read your blog post and it was so well-written and engaging. I loved how you shared your personal experiences and reflections about finding peace in the small moments of life.
It's so true that we often get caught up in the hustle and bustle of our daily lives and forget to take a step back and appreciate the present moment. Your story of discovering new activities and finding value in being present is truly inspiring. It's a good reminder for all of us to slow down and cherish the little things in life. I find that with University and work specifically, I am always running at full speed, but everyone could be different! I'm hopeful that after graduating slowing down will seem easier, without worrying about missing a deadline. Is there a certain timeframe of your life that is harder to slow down for you?
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experiences with us!
Unit 5: Citizens in Science
Having a major based in biology, I have been immersed in science and become familiar with naturalist groups and their critical roles in furthering science. I think of Bird Canada and similar organizations that use apps like Inaturalist or Merlin to gather data. The collected data is mostly from volunteers going out and recording animals, plants and other interesting aspects of nature. Some of these apps/programs have specific studies in which people must adhere to strict regulations on collecting data. I found it interesting to read that in California and Virginia, the majority of volunteers for naturalist groups are over the age of 50, women and have average incomes over $50,000 (Merenlender et al., 2016). After interviewing underrepresented groups, they discovered that most people who do not participate in citizen science programs say they need more time (Merenlender et al., 2016). People need to work/focus on their careers, so they do not have the time to volunteer for such programs (Merenlender et al., 2016). I resonate with this as despite citizens in science programs being presented to me often, I do not have the time to participate. Those over 50 are likely retired or close to retirement with kids moved out. They have more time to explore their interests and learn about nature. They also have more time to give back to the community through volunteering. I know many older individuals who have recently begun exploring interests in various natural aspects, whether birding or gardening. With mainly students surrounding me, I know very few who volunteer. Those who do it usually do it to explore career options further.
Many people need to be aware of these programs and become interested in/ see their importance. Before university, I was surprised to find out that these programs existed. I only learned about them in my third year of undergrad. Getting more of the public aware of the ease of volunteering for programs and showing it does not necessarily require much time would increase the number of people participating, even showing children so that they can encourage their parents to participate.
Citizen science is fundamental in helping the population learn about environmental issues (Wals et al., 2014). It can help participants increase their knowledge of the ecosystem around them and feel more confident within their natural environment (Merenlender et al., 2016). An emerging form of education that could increase inquiry-based, social, and disciplinary learning involves citizen science, science education and environmental education (Wals et al., 2014). This form of “whole-school approaches,” such as edible gardens, could be beneficial in encouraging varying groups to participate in citizen science. It would involve kids; their parents would be likely to help, as well as members of the community, restaurants and even the local government (Wals et al., 2014). Increasing awareness for these types of programs and starting participation young will help kids develop a love for nature and encourage more involvement from the middle-aged population of all genders. How would you encourage more participation in citizen science programs? Do you have experience participating in them?
References:
Merenlender, A. M., Crall, A., Drill, S. L., Prysby, M. D., & Ballard, H. L. (2016). Evaluating environmental education, citizen science, and stewardship through naturalist programs. Conservation Biology, 30(6), 1255–1265. https://doi.org/10.1111/cobi.12737
Wals, A., Brody, M. J., Dillon, J., & Stevenson, R. B. (2014). Convergence between science and environmental education. Science, 344(6184), 583–584. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1250515
Hi there! Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts on citizen science programs. I found your insights to be really interesting and informative. It's great to see that there are so many organizations out there using apps like Inaturalist or Merlin to gather data from volunteers.
I completely agree with you that these programs are so important in helping people learn about environmental issues and develop a deeper understanding of the ecosystem around them. I think it's really exciting to see how these programs can bring together people of all ages and backgrounds to work towards a common goal.
One thing I think would be really helpful in encouraging more participation in citizen science programs is to increase public awareness about these programs and all the great benefits they offer. It would be great to see more initiatives that involve schools, community organizations, and local businesses to support these programs and encourage more people to get involved.
Personally, I haven't had the chance to participate in any citizen science programs yet, besides the after school program "elephant thoughts" in grade 1, but I'm definitely interested in exploring opportunities in the future. I'm curious, based on your experience and research, do you think there are any particular groups or communities that these programs should be targeted towards?
Thank you again for sharing your knowledge and insights on this topic!
Science and Nature Interpretation
Nature is full of wonders, and science helps us understand and appreciate them. Have you ever wondered how the natural world works? How do birds fly, and how do plants grow? How do ecosystems function, and how do they change over time? Science provides us with answers to these questions and more, and nature interpretation helps us share this knowledge with others.
Whether you're a nature enthusiast or a science buff, there are various ways to get involved in nature interpretation. You can visit a national park or a nature center, attend a guided hike or tour, or participate in a citizen science program. These experiences allow you to learn about the natural world firsthand and connect with others who share your passion for nature.
Science is at the heart of nature interpretation, providing us with the knowledge and tools we need to understand and protect the natural world. Through scientific research and data analysis, we can learn about the complex interactions between species and ecosystems, and how human activities are impacting them. This knowledge can then be used to develop educational resources and programs that help others to appreciate and protect the natural world.
Nature interpretation isn't just about science – it's also about creativity and imagination. Interpretive exhibits, art installations, and storytelling all play a role in helping us to connect with nature. By using our creativity and imagination, we can bring the natural world to life and inspire others to care about it. Additionally, being able to convey scientific terms, findings, and viewpoints in a way that is accessible to the general public is just as imaginative.
So, whether you're a scientist, educator, artist, or storyteller, there's a place for you in nature interpretation. By working together, we can create engaging and meaningful experiences that inspire people to appreciate and protect the natural world. So, what are you waiting for? Get involved and start exploring the wonders of nature today!
References:
Beck, L., Cable, T.T., & Knudson, D.M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: for a better world. Sagamore Publishing.
