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Disclaimer
This blog was created for ENVS*3000, 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.
09: My final blog!
As I’m getting ready to graduate soon, ready to hopefully go into the world of science and nature interpretation, I can't help but feel both excitement and a bit of nervousness. Reflecting on my journey through university, I realize that my personal ethic has been quietly evolving, shaped by my deep love for nature and my desire to share its beauty with others!
Since I was a kid, I've been really drawn to the outdoors and nature, especially animals. Whether it was chasing butterflies through meadows, building forts in the woods, or simply lying in the grass and watching clouds drift by, nature has always been one of my happy places. As I grew older, my passion for nature grew more into a passion for conservation and environmental advocacy. I think I started to see nature not just as a playground, but as a precious and fragile ecosystem that needed protection. From the smallest hummingbird to the mightiest lion, every creature and every corner of the natural world has become special to me.
As I prepare to step into the role of a nature interpreter in the future, I find myself thinking about a whole new set of questions and responsibilities. What beliefs do I bring to this work? What kind of interpreter do I want to be? At the heart of my personal ethic, I have a passion for the beauty and complexity of nature. I think that every leaf, every rock, every drop of rain is a masterpiece in its own right, deserving of awe and admiration. But my passion also goes beyond just appreciation, it extends to a determination to protect and preserve the natural world for future generations. In my eyes, being a nature interpreter isn't just about pointing out cool animals and pretty flowers (although those are definitely fun parts of the job). It's about creating a sense of wonder and curiosity, giving people a deep connection to the natural world and inspiring others to become passionate stewards of the earth as well (Beck et al., 2018, p. 42).
To achieve these goals, I'm personally a firm believer in the power of hands-on learning. There's just something magical about getting your hands dirty and your feet wet, about feeling the sun on your face and the wind in your hair. Whether it's leading nature walks, conducting field research, or getting to hold and touch cool animals, I'm all about getting out there and getting involved. I think that hands-on experiences are great at creating a sense of connection (GGI Insights, n.d.). They engage multiple senses, promote direct interaction with the environment, and create memorable, immersive experiences that resonate deeply with people (Bloemendaal, 2023). But hands-on learning isn't just about having fun (although, again, it's definitely a perk). It's also about deepening our understanding of the natural world, bettering our observation skills, and creating a sense of empathy for the creatures we share this planet with (GGI Insights, n.d.). After all, it's hard to care about something you've never seen or experienced firsthand.
In addition to hands-on learning, I'm a big fan of interdisciplinary approaches to nature interpretation. The natural world is truly a complicated place, so understanding it requires more than just a basic knowledge of biology or ecology. It requires us to consider the cultural, historical, and social factors that shape our relationship with nature, as well as the ethical implications of our actions (Spokes, 2020). That's why I think it would be important to always be on the lookout for new ways to weave together different disciplines and perspectives in nature interpretation work. Whether it's incorporating indigenous knowledge into nature walks, exploring the intersection of art and science in outreach programs, or delving into the psychology of conservation behaviour in research, it’s important that we build connections between disciplines (Spokes, 2020). Especially as someone who has a passion for science, discussing science in nature interpretation is crucial because it provides a foundation of understanding, creates informed appreciation, and empowers people to make informed decisions about conservation and environmental stewardship.
Of course, no discussion of nature interpretation would be finished without addressing the elephant in the room: ethical wildlife viewing. As someone who's spent more hours than I can count marvelling at the beauty of wild animals and trying to do wildlife photography, I know how tempting it can be to get up close and personal for that perfect shot. But I also know that our desire for a good photo shouldn't come at the expense of the animals we love. That's why I'm committed to practicing responsible wildlife viewing techniques, like keeping a safe distance, minimizing habitat disturbance, and never feeding or approaching wild animals (Burns, 2017).
Finally, I believe that as a nature interpreter, I have a responsibility to address pressing environmental issues like climate change and habitat loss. These are not just abstract concepts or distant threats, but real problems that are already having a huge impact on the world around us. That's why I'm committed to using my platform as a nature interpreter to raise awareness about these issues, to share stories of resilience and adaptation in the face of environmental change, and to inspire other people to take action in their own lives and communities. Because at the end of the day, it's not enough to simply appreciate the beauty of nature, we have to fight for its protection.
Overall, my personal ethic as a nature interpreter is grounded in a deep passion for the natural world, a commitment to hands-on learning and interdisciplinary approaches, a dedication to ethical wildlife viewing, and a passion for environmental advocacy. As I Start this journey, I know that the road ahead will be long and challenging, but I'm ready to face whatever comes my way with determination, curiosity, and a whole lot of love for nature!
Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For A Better World (pp. 42). Sagamore Publishing.
Bloemendaal, M. (2023, March 5). Unlocking the Power of Hands-On Learning: Benefits, Activities, and Examples. Studio Why. https://studiowhy.com/unlocking-the-power-of-hands-on-learning-benefits-activities-and-examples/
Burns, G. L. (2017). Ethics and Responsibility in Wildlife Tourism: Lessons from Compassionate Conservation in the Anthropocene. Wildlife Tourism, Environmental Learning and Ethical Encounters, 213-220. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-55574-4_13
Conservation Education: Young People for Environmental Stewardship. (2024, March 8). Gray Group International. Retrieved March 18, 2024, from https://www.graygroupintl.com/blog/conservation-education#:~:text=Hands%2Don%20learning%20and%20outdoor%20experiences%20provide%20learners%20with%20opportunities,sense%20of%20responsibility%20and%20stewardship
Spokes, M. (2020, October 23). The interdisciplinary path to a more diverse conservation movement. Conservation Optimism. https://conservationoptimism.org/the-interdisciplinary-path-to-a-more-diverse-conservation-movement/
Hi Grace!
To start off, I want to say that I TOTALLY understand both the nervousness and excitement you are feeling about graduating. As also a soon-to-be-graduate myself, I share the same emotions. These changes are going to be so exciting, but I am not ready to leave my university experience behind!
Anyway, back to nature interpretation! The way that you describe the “complexity of nature” in your blog is very beautiful. It made me appreciate all the little pieces of nature that we often forget about a little bit more! As described in Chapter 5, the patterns and connections found in nature can be seen as “chaos”, but in the absolutely the best way (Knudson et al., 2018). It truly is mesmerizing when you step back and look at all that is happening in our ecosystem at once and how all the pieces come together. I think that's why I like nature documentaries so much! I also really like your discussion on ethical wildlife viewing. This is something that needs to be increasingly inputted into our societies as industries expand, but it is often not talked about. We don’t like when people come into our homes and ruin our stuff, so why are we allowed to do that to animals? With our environmental conditions adjusting due to climate change and animal species constantly needing to adapt to survive, further human disturbance could cause greater issues such as extinction. You have great insights of environmental conservation! Good look with your future endeavors in nature interpretation!
Knudson, D. M., Beck, L., Cable, T. T. (2018). Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage: For a Better World. Sagamore Publishing LLC. https://sagamore.vitalsource.com/books/9781571678669
Unit 10: A reflection on my Personal Ethics as a Nature Interpreter
Hello fellow interpreters,
For my final blog post for this course as a nature interpreter, I bring with me a set of beliefs, responsibilities, and approaches that guide my interactions with the natural world. This final blog serves as a place of reflection on my changing beliefs, the responsibilities I uphold, and the approaches that I find the most suitable for me as an interpreter (Beck et al. 2019, Chapter 4). Taking inspiration from ideas in the textbooks and course material I plan on applying my values and insights into meaningful actions in the world of nature interpretation.
Starting with my beliefs, as a nature interpreter I believe that nature has a greater purpose than just its practical uses. I believe that nature possesses great value and worth, and it deserves our respect and protection. Thinking back to when I was a kid, my beliefs about nature have developed for the better as I became more educated on the topic over my academic career. For example, as a kid I only knew nature from what I had experienced, which included going on family camping trips, going on hikes, and playing outside with friends. I would say my view of nature at this time was that it provided a space for me to engage in activities and I didn't understand how much value it held. Now that I am older and more developed, I have learned a lot about the environment, I understand how much it shapes our day-to-day life, our mental health, our physical health, self-esteem, and many more (Beck et al. 2019, Chapter 3). After learning about many aspects of nature I understand that it is far more than a resource for human consumption but a complex and interconnected web of life that sustains us all (Beck et al. 2019, Chapter 3). By recognizing and honoring the value of nature, we can build a deep sense of appreciation and stewardship for the world around us (Dr. Hooykaas, n.d.).
Secondly, as a nature interpreter, I understand the responsibility that comes with the role of creating connections between people and the natural world. In this role, I am tasked with creating understanding, appreciation, and stewardship of the environment while also advocating for conservation and sustainability practices (Dr. Hooykaas, n.d.). This responsibility is exemplified through my exploration of communication and experiential learning theories in this course, which have equipped me with tools to effectively communicate important information on nature to diverse audiences (Beck et al. 2019, Chapter 5). Just like interpreters help people develop an ethical sense of their place and role in the world, my goal is to create a similar sense of connection and responsibility toward nature in future generations (Beck et al. 2019, Chapter 3; Jacob Rodenburg, 2019). Inspired by Tilden's goal of creating transformative experiences through interpretation, I am committed to providing engaging stories, asking thought-provoking questions, and evoking a sense of wonder and appreciation for the natural world in all those I encounter. Take the children's podcast we recently completed as an example, we focused on environmental education, where I put my interpretive skills to use to engage young listeners in topics such as biodiversity, conservation, and the wonders of the squirrels in the arboretum. Through projects like these, I plan to fulfill my responsibilities as a nature interpreter by inspiring curiosity, and compassion, and creating a sense of environmental responsibility in future generations (Dr. Hooykaas, n.d.).
When dissecting naturing interpretation, I tend to favor approaches that focus on authenticity, empathy, and experiential learning to interact with visitors. Through the content of this course, I believe that the power of storytelling is a great way to create deep connections using tales that make sense to the lives of participants as the medium to convey messages of unity and empathy (Beck et al. 2019, Chapter 10). Using interactive and story-telling techniques that captivate the senses and provoke emotional responses, I intend to promote an interest in nature and motivate action in the people I come across. I see the importance of meeting people where they are in their journey of life so that I can adapt easily to their interests, backgrounds, and developmental stages.
As an individual, I have learned through this course that I am a visual learner and that I tend to use approaches that emphasize hands-on experiences and visual aids. I believe in the power of storytelling and how it captures the imagination and interprets complicated ideas in a relatable way. By incorporating visuals, such as photographs, diagrams, and props, I can help others who are visual learners as well by enhancing their learning experience and making complex concepts more manageable for participants. Throughout this course, I have noticed the importance of creating inclusive and welcoming environments for everyone so that they feel comfortable and engaged. Whether I am leading an interpretive walk, holding a workshop, or creating interpretive material, I will always make sure that my approach meets the diverse needs and preferences of my audiences, to make sure everyone can connect to nature in a meaningful way (Beck et al. 2019, Chapter 6).
Overall, as I reflect on my journey as a nature interpreter, I am reminded of how big of an impact my beliefs, responsibilities, and approaches have on shaping the interactions made with the natural world. By being more mindful and searching within myself, I have gained a better appreciation of the inherent worth of nature and the connections between all life. The ongoing changes in my personal beliefs lay a foundation for my future nature interpretation responsibilities which include, building understanding, appreciation, and stewardship of the environment, while still advocating for conservation and sustainability practices (Dr. Hooykaas, n.d.). From creating educational materials to interacting with various audiences, I am dedicated to the goals of accurately describing ideas, empathizing with the audiences, and experiential learning in the process. By creating memorable narratives using storytelling, pictures, and inclusive practices, I hope to create transformative experiences that inspire curiosity, and compassion, and create a sense of environmental responsibility in all who cross my path. As I continue my journey as an interpreter, I am grateful for the knowledge I have gained and look forward to applying it in practice, ensuring that nature's interpretations remain a powerful tool for connecting people with the natural world. Together as a class, let us embrace the wonders and beauties of nature, and strive to be stewards of the earth we call our home.
References
Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage for a Better World. Sagamore Publishing. https://www.sagamorepub.com/products/interpreting-cultural-and-natural-heritage-better-world
Jacob Rodenburg. (2019, July 17). Why environmental educators shouldn’t give up hope | CLEARING: PNW Journal of Environmental Education in the Pacific Northwest. https://clearingmagazine.org/archives/14300
Hooykaas, A. (n.d.). Unit 10: Nature Interpretation’s Role in Enviornmental Sustainability [Lecture notes]. ENVS3000 Nature Interpretation. University of Guelph.
Hi Natalie!
Great post! I really relate to your perspectives on how your interpretation of nature has changed with age. As you mentioned, learning about it in our education highlights how nature connects to us, but I also really like that because of our education, I now understand how parts of nature work. Learning random nature facts, like how a cocoon develops from a caterpillar, is so cool to me and makes me more passionate about getting outside and learning even more. I also really like how you feel that connecting human and natural interactions is a responsibility of nature interpreters. In all honesty, I hadn’t really thought of that before because I assumed those connections would arise independently of each other through coincidence. Making it our responsibility highlights the ownership we have for our actions and impact on nature and how we need to encourage protection of these spaces. As discussed in Chapter 9, passing on this information to others is crucial in creating action and influencing the perspectives of a scenario (Knudson et al., 2018). Additionally, like you, I am a visual learner. I really depend on visual aids when learning or retaining information and because of this I am constantly drawing diagrams or lists! I like that you realized what you need, but how you can also help others with your learning strategies and tools through nature interpretation. Upon reflection, posting on these blogs has been great for us visual learners because so many people include pictures and context that hooks us in! Thanks for sharing!
Knudson, D. M., Beck, L., Cable, T. T. (2018). Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage: For a Better World. Sagamore Publishing LLC. https://sagamore.vitalsource.com/books/9781571678669
My Thoughts on Nature Interpretation
One of my favourite quotes of all time is “With great power comes great responsibility”. Now I know you usually hear this quote in the movies, when a leader is making a tough choice or the protagonist is analyzing their options, but I like to think about this quote on a day-to-day basis. Although nature interpretation may not be seen as a “power”, it is important to acknowledge the influence of our actions and interpretations on others. Because of this, my biggest belief in nature interpretation is to be honest. Interpreting with honesty allows for more meaningful perspectives, both for yourself and your observers. It also allows you to build trust in your relationship with nature. There is no point in lying to yourself about your opinions on nature because it does not provide any benefit to anyone. As mentioned in Chapter 4, when delivering interpretations, it is crucial to be clear and honest, only with the exception of if the truth could be seen as a threat to others (Knudson et al., 2018). Analyzing your surroundings when outside in a truthful manner encourages reflection and allows individuals to find resources in nature that can be used. I also believe that all interpreters should go into any scenario with an open mind. Having preconceived ideas going into a situation ruins the chance you have to make the interpretation your own. A huge part of this is acknowledging your biases before you approach your interpretive scenario. Biases can be formed based on background, opinion or preference and they can cause you to judge or exclude pieces of nature because of these feelings. Putting these aside allows you to interpret the entire scenario.
When interpreting nature, I believe that it is everyone's responsibility to be respectful of our surroundings. When camping as a child, I was often told the saying “leave only footprints, take only memories”. This attitude needs to be used in nature interpretation, to be respectful of how our presence is affecting the ecosystem. Not only will this assist with the strength of our own interpretations, but it will prevent the chance of impacting the experience of future interpreters. Someone's experience in an area filled with litter and man-made impact is going to be very different from the experience of someone in a carefully conserved area. Nature has a natural cycle that makes it work the way that it does, and messing with that could have drastic consequences. Ensuring our presence is not impacting the environmental wellness of an area is very important.
It's also our responsibility as a nature interpreter to step outside your comfort zone. Similar to biases, continuously going into familiar scenarios will prevent growth as a nature interpreter. Resisting change will only limit the amount of productivity and discovery you can have when in nature. Chapter 7 of the textbook includes several examples of individuals admitting to wanting to stay in their comfort zone in different scenarios, but proving that they only really thrived in their area when they tried something new (Knudson et al., 2018). It can be scary to step outside the box, but as an interpreter it is our responsibility to do so in order to make our most educated and adapted responses.
An approach to nature interpretation that has benefitted me the most is being patient. I have learned that there is no rush, and that it takes time to fully take in my surroundings to develop my opinion. Rushing can lead to mistakes or misinterpretations. In order to properly interpret something, you need to give yourself the time to ask and answer questions from concepts directly related to Maslow's hierarchy, beginning general and then expanding to narrower concepts (Knudson et al., 2018). Addressing all layers of a scenario takes time, but doing so pays off with better understood interpretations. I feel more people just need to slow down to look around. Similarly, it is equally important to revisit or re-evaluate scenarios if necessary, in order to get the best interpretations. Interpreting in one go can be hard to gain the full picture, so revisiting an experience or area can help gain more perspective.
My biggest take away from this course in nature interpretation approaches is how transdisciplinary the skills and resources I have gained through my nature interpretation are. Each of the factors I just listed can be applied to my day to day life, whether it's interacting with people or making decisions. Being open, respectful, cautious and patient can prevent unintentional emotions or interactions with others. Additionally, all these skills will also be extremely transferable in future employment scenarios. For example, I can use my patience skills when I start a new job and am learning how to take on responsibilities. Or I can use my experience in maintaining respectful interactions to speak with future supervisors. Starting in a calm and private area like nature to gain these skills results in having these tools ready when you need them in the future. This again just shows how closely related our world and nature are, and how we can learn from our surroundings.
Ultimately, I believe that ethics in nature interpretation is extremely personal and changes based on an individual's expression. The priorities someone has in their natural explorations are based on so many independent factors that can not be uniformly defined by a certain set of ethics. If there is one thing I have learned in this course, and I've said it before many times, it's that nature interpretation is all about perspective.
Thanks for a great semester!
Knudson, D. M., Beck, L., Cable, T. T. (2018). Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage: For a Better World. Sagamore Publishing LLC. https://sagamore.vitalsource.com/books/9781571678669
Natures blueprint for innovation
Nature is an everlasting part of our world that never ceases to amaze me with its wonders. Throughout these jaw dropping and unique features lies one of the most interesting wonders of the natural world; biomimicry. This is one of the most incredible ways in which humans draw upon their genius creations and abilities of nature that have revolutionized our technology, designs and engineering today.
First, let's imagine being surrounded by the sights and sounds of a rainforest, where the leaves and creatures are a true testament of life on earth. Next, let's take a journey through the deep oceans or the heights of the sky to see just how extraordinary our natural world is as we discover all the hidden secrets within it.
Biomimicry is essentially the practice of emulating natures solutions to design productions of materials, structures or systems that are modeled based on biological processes and abilities. This can be seen in so many of our daily inventions such as, the shape of a bullet train that resembles the kingfishers beak or a self-cleaning surface product modeled after the lotus leaf, biomimicry has the ability to revolutionize industries and transform so many parts of the human life as well as our relationship with nature.
However, biomimicry is not only found in the animal kingdom, it can also be drawn upon in plants, fungi and even bacteria. As mentioned the lotus leaf, whose surface repels water and thus prevents dirt and bacteria from adhering to the surface. Through studying this leaf, scientists have been able to develop self cleaning coatings and textiles that revolutionize clothing and sanitation. This I find quite interesting as this is something I personally have been influenced by. Every so often I apply a spray called rain-x to my car windshield that when the rain hits it the water pellets fly right off as it repeals them from adhering to the windshield, learning that this was actual first discovered and inspired by the natural world is so fascinating as it shows just how much of our everyday lives is affected by some part of nature even when we do not realize it.
Now, as you contemplate the world of biomimicry and think about all the other products and technologies you use everyday that are likely inspired through nature, let it serve as a reminder of how much wisdom and ingenuity that is engraved in our natural world and how it is not just a pretty sight to see but well constructed with so many hidden gems. In our world that is facing so many challenges like climate change and resource depletion, remember that biomimicry offers hope as it serves as a blueprint for sustainable innovations. Thus, look at nature as our guide and mentor as we can unlock a world of possibilities and creations for the future where technology and sustainability go hand in hand.
Hi Maddy! I really enjoyed reading your blog! I had never heard of biomimicry before so I just learned something new! I really like that you are making connections between things we know, such as the windshield spray, and the traits that display these behaviours in nature. It highlights how much humans have gained and how much we use nature in our day to day lives without even realizing it. Upon reflection, the damage we are doing to our Earth through climate change could impact not only our environment, but many other human applications that we rarely consider. This mimicry also shows you the importance of interpretation, because one individual may look at a natural object and get an idea, while others may notice something different. The textbook chapter this week discusses the presence of lifelong learning and how museums are brought into children's education at a young age to encourage unique interpretations (Knudson et al., 2018). Using this thinking, there should be an increase in nature immersion in children's education when young to encourage nature interpretation, potentially ending in biomimicry in the future. Additionally, the text also discusses several important areas of professional interpretation (Knudson et al., 2018), and I believe that biomimicry should be consciously applied to all of them. Nature is incredible and capable of so many things, so making an effort to follow its natural elements in professional or personal settings may make our lives more efficient and productive. Like you said, nature should be our guide! Thanks!
Knudson, D. M., Beck, L., Cable, T. T. (2018). Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage: For a Better World. Sagamore Publishing LLC. https://sagamore.vitalsource.com/books/9781571678669
Stars!
There are SO many amazing things in nature that I could write this blog about, but for me, some of my favorite and most wondrous moments in nature have been spent stargazing. I have spent hours laying on the beach, or a dock or even in my yard, looking at all of those little dots in the sky. My brain just cannot process that those lights are little balls of fire!
Well technically, a star is a ball of mostly hydrogen gas, forming the collision of two large gaseous clouds (NASA, n.d.). It burns this gas really quickly for it to stay stable, until it runs out and collapses in on itself. When the core collapses, an explosion occurs called a supernova and the empty star space becomes either a black hole or a neutron star (NASA, n.d.). Stars cycle through these changes constantly, and these reactions make up the hundreds of dots in the night sky.
Stars make up galaxies, which are big areas of stars. And there are about 2 trillion galaxies in the universe (Howell and Harvery, 2022)! This means that space and the amount of stars in our sky carries on so far beyond the stars around Earth! Isn’t it crazy to think standing here on the ground and looking up, all that is going on above us? And on a cloudy night, those balls of gas are still burning even when we can’t see them?
Another really cool thing about stars is constellations, which are my favourite part! I have a really fond memory of being at camp when I was thirteen, and one of my counselors decided to put on an astronomy show for us one night. We laid on our backs as my counselor (who knew a lot about the stars) pointed out all the different configurations found in the stars, telling us the story behind each. I remember being so intrigued and feeling so happy and grateful for being able to have that experience, and since then, constellations are a major soft spot for me!
Constellations are clusters of stars that make up different shapes (IAU, n.d.). Constellations are all about perspective, as different constellations can be found all over the world, but they change depending on where you are standing. Constellations are individual, and are named for various reasons, such as shape, symbol or cultural significance (IAU, n.d.). The International Astronomical Union has officially acknowledged 88 constellations in our skies, formally named in Latin but also go by common names (often similar to their appearance). This ranges from well known ones, like the Big Dipper, to individual ones, like the 12 unique constellations for each of the zodiac signs (IAU, n.d.). The coolest part of constellations is that everyone sees and interprets something different. Individuals take what they know and have been previously exposed to and incorporate it into what they see (Knudson et al., 2018). Stars can tell a story that reaches everyone in a different way.
Howell, E., & Harvey, A. (2022, February 11). How many stars are in the universe?. Space.com. https://www.space.com/26078-how-many-stars-are-there.html
International Astronomical Union. IAU. (n.d.). https://www.iau.org/public/themes/constellations/
Knudson, D. M., Beck, L., Cable, T. T. (2018). Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage: For a Better World. Sagamore Publishing LLC. https://sagamore.vitalsource.com/books/9781571678669
NASA. (n.d.). Stars. NASA. https://science.nasa.gov/universe/stars/
Blog 7: The connection between Music and the environment
Have you ever noticed how nature has its own music? From the sound of waves crashing to the wind rustling through trees, it's like the world is playing its own soundtrack. This makes me think about how music and nature are connected. They share a special relationship, with nature inspiring music and music capturing the essence of nature. It's fascinating to explore where music exists in nature and where nature appears in our favourite music.
Nature is full of sounds that could easily be part of a song. Think about the rhythmic patter of rain or the cheerful chirping of birds at sunrise. These sounds create a natural melody that's all around us, a real-life music that plays without any instruments. This music of nature isn't just noise in the background; it's a beautiful performance that tells stories about the world we live in.
Just like nature influences the music around us, musicians often use the beauty of the environment as inspiration for their songs. They take the sights, sounds, and feelings of nature and turn them into music. This way, music becomes a bridge that connects us to the natural world, helping us express our feelings about it and feel closer to it.
One song that does this for me is "Coastline" by Hollow Coves. Whenever I hear it, I'm instantly taken back to my cozy cottage by the lake. The song's gentle melody and calm singing perfectly capture the peaceful feeling of being near the water. It talks about exploring and finding comfort in nature, which is exactly what I feel when I'm at my cottage.
Listening to "Coastline" brings back memories of sitting outside, breathing in the summer air mixed with the smell of pine trees, and listening to the waves. It's not just a song; it's a key to my memories, bringing back those quiet moments of reflection and connection with nature. This song shows how music can take us back to special places, reminding us of our adventures and the calmness we find in certain spots
"Coastline" isn't just about a beautiful natural scene; it's about our own experiences in those places. It reminds us of the journeys we've taken, the peaceful evenings by a fire, and the deep sense of belonging we feel in our favorite natural settings. These feelings are personal, but the song speaks to something many of us share: the joy of finding meaning and beauty in the natural world.
Overall, the link between music and nature is about more than just sounds; it's about how we see ourselves in the world. As "Coastline" plays, and I remember my times by the lake, I'm reminded of how music can connect us to our surroundings, bring back cherished memories, and celebrate the natural world's beauty. It's amazing how a simple song can capture the feelings of being in nature, making our experiences and connections even more special.
Cheers! Please enjoy my photos and videos from my cottage!
-Virginia
Hi Virginia!
Reading your blog put a huge smile on my face! I completely agree with your discussions about finding music in the natural elements of the outdoors. I really like the way that you described it as a “natural melody” and as a “beautiful performance”; that choice of wording really accentuates the influence that this beauty can have on the way we interpret things. I got extra excited about your post because I LOVE “Coastline” by Hollow Coves! Accompanied with your beautiful video of the sunset over the lake, I completely understand your description of how it makes you feel like you are by the water. For me, I have similar positive memories associated with that song, taking me back to camp and singing it around the campfire by the water! Music really can transport you to the nature that you associate the memories with. It's interesting that we both find the rhythm and the context of the song relatable to special memories in nature. As discussed in Chapter 8 of the textbook, interpretation of any sort of media is about targeting an audience and connecting to your listeners (Knudson et al., 2018). I wonder if when Hollow Coves were making this song, they had people like you and I in mind, who tune into the sounds of nature and connect to songs with the same calming melody. All of this just proves how deep of a connection music and nature have. I loved your pictures! Thanks!
Knudson, D. M., Beck, L., Cable, T. T. (2018). Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage: For a Better World. Sagamore Publishing LLC. https://sagamore.vitalsource.com/books/9781571678669
The Connection of Music and Nature
I LOVE music. I listen to music all day long, whether studying or at the gym or cooking dinner. Because of this, I feel that I am very aware of the music in nature around us. Music is found in all of the natural sounds. Like in a running stream or rustling branches or birds chirping. All of those factors make up what we know and love about nature. These sounds also play a huge part in an individual's emotions and interpretations of nature. For example, when I read this prompt, I was immediately taken to a memory of spending time at my grandparents house as a kid. In the summer, my grandpa would give me a set of binoculars, and we would watch the birds at his backyard bird feeder for hours. We would then find the birds that we saw in a book that he had, which provided details about the bird and also played the sound that the bird made. I loved that book, and I had so much fun with my grandpa listening to all the different bird sounds. To this day, I still remember a couple of specific bird chirps from that book and I often recognize them on hikes or in my own backyard. Hearing those sounds instantly makes me happy, and then makes my perspectives about my time in nature more positive. Similarly, I believe that nature in music is used to connect to the listeners. It is rare that clips of nature are included in music (although I believe that it could really add to the experience!), but I mostly believe that nature can be conveyed through the visual aids of music and music type. In chapter 8 of the textbook, it discusses the concern of technology ruining the authenticity of experiences in nature, through the sharing of views and adventures on social media (Knudson et al., 2018). In the application of music, I find that the advancement of technology has deepened the connection of nature in music. Music videos and album covers taken with natural elements give listeners context to the music, and can allow for listeners to be taken to the world of the song. Nature can also be found in the lyrics of music, discussing different places or activities. The first example of this that comes to mind is Noah Kahan’s most recent album “Stick Season”. The album cover is a picture of the artist standing in a forest with his dog, and almost every song on the album mentions some sort of lyrics about being outdoors, as the artist shares his experiences growing up in Vermont. For me, this application of nature really adds to the music I am listening to, and I can’t listen to the album without picturing sitting around a campfire!
I will leave you with one of my favourite Noah Kahan songs, “Northern Attitudes”! Enjoy!
Knudson, D. M., Beck, L., Cable, T. T. (2018). Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage: For a Better World. Sagamore Publishing LLC. https://sagamore.vitalsource.com/books/9781571678669
Week 6
Hello Everybody,
This week we were all tasked with unpacking a quote by Edward Hyams in chapter seven, Gifted of interpretation, the quotes reads, “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.” Unpacking this quote initially seems like a daunting task. There is a lot of information and insight in only a few sentences. The first statement immediately sets the tone for the whole quote, when Edward says “There is no peculiar merit in ancient things, but there is merit in integrity” I interpret it as just because objects are old does not make them special or noteworthy but it is the fact that the object has been able to stand the test of time yet still keep its integrity should be appreciated and celebrated. “and integrity entails the keeping together of the parts of any whole”, this part of the quote puzzled me initially but I believe that Edward is trying to say that the point or purposes of objects in our past can be lost or misunderstood if the physical integrity of the object is not maintained. “if these parts are scattered throughout time, then the maintenance of integrity entails a knowledge, a memory, of ancient things” I believe this part means that if the integrity of an object or idea is maintained it represents that the people maintaining it have a higher understanding of the importance of remembering ancient things as they were. “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.” This part of the quote perhaps was the most impactful to me, my understanding of what Edward is trying to say is that time does not only exist in the present and to think that it does is simply incorrect. This relates to the idea of legacy a person can leave behind, although the things that this person has done occurred in a single moment in time its memory and importance can be carried on for decades or hundreds of years. This quote reminds me heavily of another very popular quote you have probably heard, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it”- George Santayana. If humanity is not concerned with protecting the integrity of historical objects, historical events, or historical people then the world will forget the lessons learned by thousands of years of experiences. Overall, this quote is very insightful and provoked me to think about how I interpret historical artifacts and events.
How did this quote change the way you think?
Hi Isaac!
Reading through your blog made me realize that I initially interpreted a couple pieces of this quote differently than you, but I actually prefer your interpretation than my own! In your first point, you speak about how integrity determines the value of things, not age, and I am really moved by this message. Into your conversation about how integrity can be challenged if physical form changes, I really like the understanding that you are conveying in your interpretation. While I spoke about the value of integrity in my blog, you expanded on how integrity can be maintained and achieved through prioritizing it. The variation in our responses shows the importance of perspective and integrity. For me, the take-home message of this prompt is how powerful individual interpretation can be, and reading your blog response proved exactly that! As quoted in Chapter 14th of the textbook “Writing is a powerful interpretive tool” (Knudson et al., 2018). The way something is written truly determines the way something can be received and understood. Additionally, your conversation about legacy and what a person leaves behind struck a chord with me, because it reminded me of how each of our interpretations result in who we are to future generations. The way we can communicate and share our opinions impacts our own interpretations, but also the interpretations of others. Great blog! Thank you for sharing your insights!
Knudson, D. M., Beck, L., Cable, T. T. (2018). Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage: For a Better World. Sagamore Publishing LLC. https://sagamore.vitalsource.com/books/9781571678669
The Power of Perspective
In all honesty, this weeks quote really got me thinking. It took me several read throughs to make sense of these words and to finally understand what is being said. To me, this quote is talking about the importance of acknowledging and understanding your past to live with purpose. Doing this, you are able to display integrity in your actions, words and thoughts. Acting with integrity is a conscious choice, and is something that comes with great internal reflection. Using your past as a reference for your future can really impact your future interpretations. Thinking about this quote in terms of this course and nature interpretations, I think that using integrity in your opinions and interpretations allows for more successful representations. Integrity creates the opportunity for better educated and thought out interpretations, and it is these honest emotions that are crucial in nature interpretation to see nature's true beauty.
The last part of this quote, discussing the train station, reminds me of the power of your past. An individual's past is a huge part of their life, whether they want it to be or not. It defines you, either striving to keep it or using it as a way to change. As mentioned in the Unit 6 information, growing from your past can also allow you to connect more deeply with others. Your own personal experiences can become meaningful to others, as they have likely had similar experiences (Hooykaas, 2024). It's a direct way to reach your audience and share a sense of integrity. This immediately reminded me of the first quote in Chapter 14 of the textbook, with Samuel Johnson's quote saying, “The two most engaging powers of an author are to make new things familiar, and familiar things new” (Knudson et al., 2018). This directly reinforces my view of how using your past makes your connections familiar to others. As further discussed in the chapter, thinking about these things is extremely important in interpretive writing and nature interpretation (Knudson et al., 2018). As we know, interpretation can be extremely subjective. Individuals sharing similar pasts are more likely to have similar interpretations of nature and their surroundings. For example, they may be more drawn to a lake or similar ecosystems if they have grown up with a cottage on a lake. Your past can be an extremely useful tool for connection.
My favourite part about this prompt is how this quote can mean so many different things to so many people. In hindsight, I believe that realizing this is why we are analyzing this quote in this week's prompt. To be honest, when I first began to work on this prompt, I was very confused as to why we were reading a quote that had nothing to do with nature, but as I have read through the chapters and worked my way to typing this response, I now understand. There are many ways to be a strong interpretive writer, but the greatest way is to consider perspective.
Knudson, D. M., Beck, L., Cable, T. T. (2018). Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage: For a Better World. Sagamore Publishing LLC. https://sagamore.vitalsource.com/books/9781571678669
Hooykaas, A. (2024). Unit 6: Nature interpretation through history. University of Guelph. https://courselink.uoguelph.ca/d2l/le/content/858004/viewContent/3640020/View
Blog 5: The Flow of Water
Hey everyone! Welcome back to my blog! I hope you’ve been enjoying the posts and I have been reading all the replies/reblogs and I am glad to see others taking interest in the same topics as me! Anyway, we’ll get into this new blog post, and I’ll be writing about what water really means to me. Enjoy the read and the pics!
Ever since I can remember I have had a strong connection and always feel drawn/pulled towards the water. Anytime I am near any body of water no matter how big or small, it could be a small puddle on the ground or on a table or it could be an ocean or lake, I will stare at it for a little while to see if I can see anything moving within it. I am unsure why but all life in the water intrigues me. Ever since I was young my dad would take me fishing when we could and I know for a fact that this is one reason I have the love for the water that I do, but even before that I was eager to go to the water and look at everything in it.
This is a picture of a time my friend and I went fishing just out front of my cottage in a paddle boat, and we caught 4 smallmouth bass (2-3 pound like the one in the picture, 1 1.5 pound, and 1 1 pound).
Fishing is a very large hobby for me to this day, and I will find any excuse I can to go fishing when I’m at my cottage or somewhere I know I can fish. I mentioned in an earlier post that my dad and I are going on a fishing trip in BC and it is supposed to be a once in a lifetime experience, so I am very excited for that. Due to how much I had gone fishing it piqued my interest more and more on how the fish survived and lived in the water. I was always told to be careful when handling a fish because their gills are very sensitive, but I was never told why. This interested me so much I am now in my 4th year of Marine and Freshwater biology, and while this answered the original question of why fish gills are so sensitive it has opened up a multitude of other more in depth questions and just makes my love for these creatures even more deep.
I’ve never really been one who enjoys reading, but as a young child my favourite book of all time that I would take everywhere with me was titled, “Oceans”. This book helped with my ever growing interest in all things aquatic, and has helped with my ‘random useless facts’. This book never left my side for roughly the years between 7 years old to 11 years old. This is what I would read when I was bored or during the “silent reading” time in school.
This video shows how rough the waters at Indian head cove, Tobermory can get, but as dangerous as this may be there is also beauty in the waves destruction.
Swimming is one of my favourite forms of exercise. I find that whenever I go swimming with friends either in a lake or in a pool I am always able to continue swimming without fatigue. While swimming I do not feel as if I get tired and always have strength. I also enjoy freediving (although I am still trying to get better). I find diving to deeper depths extremely peaceful because it’s so solitary when you are 20-25 feet below the surface. The noise isn’t overwhelmingly loud but it’s also not silent. The water pressure around you feels like a cold hug, and all you see is a beautiful deep blue (at least in Georgian bay/Lake Huron), and when you let your body swish in the current (while holding onto something so you don’t drift away too far) it is such a serene feeling.
This is a picture of Georgian bay on a very calm day and it shows the beautiful deep blue colour.
Unfortunately, I don’t have any pictures of being underwater, but I hope you enjoyed the other pics. I hope you all enjoyed the post this week, and I look forward to your replies! I’ll see you next week for the next post!
Hi Jody!
I loved reading your post this week! Your pictures are amazing! I feel that I really relate to your perspectives about being near the water because I also love it! Growing up, my family used to call me a fish because they would have to drag me out of the water after a day at the beach! Being in the water is one of my favorite feelings, just floating and enjoying the silence as you mentioned. Unfortunately, I can’t say I share your love of fishing (the worms freak me out too much!), but I love watching people fish! Your comment about the dark blue colors of Georgian Bay also struck a chord with me, as I grew up swimming in those waters at my cottage and my summer camp (I recognized your Tobermory photo!). Although they are sometimes cold, I completely agree with you when you speak of the serene feeling that comes over you being in or near that water. The idea of Georgian Bay being so large and so deep makes me forget about my worries, and makes me present in the waves. Your post also reminded me of chapter 3 in the textbook and the discussion about recreational benefits and leisure time. They mention that some of the best times of leisure and enjoyment is when there is no instruction (Knudson et al., 2018), and I believe it is that exact characteristic that makes the water so special. Whether it is boating or canoeing, or even playing mermaids at the beach, the water has such a vast range for interpretation and it really has something for everyone.
Knudson, Larry Beck, Ted T. Cable, Douglas M. Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage: For a Better World. Available from: Sagamore Publishing LLC, Sagamore Publishing LLC, 2018.
The Influence of the Mountains
Ever since I was little, whenever I was having a bad day, or getting sad or upset, I would always take some space outside to recollect my thoughts. My mom would tell me to go kick the soccer ball, or to go for a bike ride around the block. I have always found that being outside is my comfort space, and that I feel better when I get a breath of fresh air. There is something so calming about it. As a result, I believe that mental health has a very significant interconnection with nature, creating a positive correlation between the two components.
Thinking about this, it brings me to a memory from when I was 15. My family and I were on a road trip in British Columbia and Alberta, to explore the mountains and visit some of my family that lives out there. The entire trip was incredible, and I remember being so amazed by the local nature. We did so much hiking and exploring and by the end of the trip, I was in love with the mountains. We stopped in Canmore to visit my cousins and took a walk along the river in the middle of the town. I made a comment to my cousin about how much I loved it out in Western Canada and how I noticed that everyone seemed so happy there. Her response stuck out to me, as I remember my cousin (who had recently moved there) saying “ Yeah I have noticed that too. I have heard someone say that everyone is happier out here because when they are going through a difficult time, you can just look at the mountains, and realize that there are so many bigger things in this world than yourself or your problems”. I remember being flabbergasted by this answer, and it is something that I have held onto for almost 7 years. It's not that I truly believe that people are happier in British Columbia in comparison to Ontario because we don’t have mountains, but it's the fact that nature can be used as such a significant force in people's lives. Individuals can use nature as a way to make themselves stronger and a better person. This was my first real example of people using nature as an outlet for their mental health. Relating your own challenges and problems to the natural beauty around us is such a poetic way to ground yourself, and I found myself really inspired and drawn to that way of thinking.
It is these perspectives that prove the significant connection between nature and mental health. Being immersed in nature and taking a big deep breath of fresh air, it is so easy to let go of all of the negative things holding you back. Making a simple choice like going outside for a walk or a run can prevent you from getting lost in your emotions and making a choice that you will later regret. This is a practice that I still do often, and plan on doing for the rest of my life.
finding footing in art & nature🦋🌿
This week’s post is about the interpretation of nature through art – I’ll be focusing less on how I interpret nature through art, and more about how I have come to find my footing in doing so.
A quotation from chapter 3 of the textbook (Beck, Cable, & Knudson, 2018) really struck a chord with me for this topic. Talking about studying nature in schools, Burroughs (1916) said that it was:
“Too cold, too special, too mechanical; it is likely to rub the bloom off Nature. It lacks soul and emotion. It misses the accessories of the open air and its exhilarations, the sky, the clouds, the landscape, and the currents of life that pulse everywhere.”
I feel that many of us can relate to this excerpt, as did I. Rub the bloom off Nature.
It sounds silly, and I still sometimes feels pretty embarrassed by it, but I really feel like the driving force behind my choice of major (Zoology) was nature documentaries, photography, and Diane Fossey and Jane Goodall’s stories. The images on a TV screen of people out in the wild, so intimately and genuinely immersed in the beauties and intricacies of nature – that is what drove it home for me.
I can’t honestly say that I was thinking - primarily - about learning the ins and outs of statistical methods. Nor was I considering the how-to’s of data acquisition and manipulation, or even hypothesis formulating.
Realistically, I was thinking about how cool it would be to study a major that was defined by natural historians and explorers like Charles Darwin, or the people I saw on Nat Geo programs.
So… who am I to interpret nature through art? I’m someone in a (to some, surprisingly) technical, scientific major. Someone who didn’t necessarily know what they were signing up for, who was (naively) hoping for an experience akin to these creative interpretations. But I’m someone who has come to love these studies because they’ve immensely deepened the connection I’ve always felt to the beauty of nature. When I see a scenic landscape shot or a charming illustration of anything wild, I have so much more in my interpretive toolset than I ever did before. I can parse through the dramatic editing and enhanced colours to find a deeper meaning, one that is simultaneously more informed and more abstract.
The bloom may have been rubbed off a little, but now I can take steps to paint it back on.
Of course, this need not apply to members of the audience. As the hopeful interpreter, I’m fortunate to have this science + art lens, and it is indeed my responsibility to translate that dual perspective into a single, coherent, and cohesive one.
And how do I interpret the gift of beauty? Through that dual perspective.
One of Tilden’s (1957) Principles of Interpretation is that
“the chief aim of interpretation is not instruction, but provocation”
Philosophers have made attempts through millennia to articulate the importance of beauty. One particularly ephemeral type of beauty has been described as “the sublime”. Crudely, it has to do with the almost agonizing appreciation we feel when we see a mountainscape, the ocean, a sprawling forest – something naturally beautiful, perhaps chaotic, immense (notice that most philosophers can’t help but define it in terms of NATURAL beauty).
[ Among the Sierra Nevada, California (1868), Albert Bierstadt. ]
Part of the gift of beauty is in its interpretation; the self-reflection that compels us to ask
why is this sight making me feel this way??? and HOW?
Combining that stand-alone beauty with technical knowledge is a simple step we take after being inexplicably provoked by nature. A step towards appreciating, defining, putting our finger on the gorgeous gift that Mother Nature is, and then making our own creations to try to capture that beauty – kind of like how a painter might study a renowned artist by recreating their work. In this way, we gain some insight into how Mother Nature put all these elements together to make a creation so breathtaking.
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References
Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage for a Better World. Sagamore Publishing.
Burroughs, J. (1916). Under the apple trees. New York, NY: William H. Wise & Co.
Tilden, F. (1957). Interpreting our heritage. Chapel Hill, NC: University of North Carolina Press.
Hi there! I really enjoyed reading your blog this week! It particularly caught my eye because I also LOVE nature documentaries and I don’t think you have any reason to be embarrassed by that! I used to love Jane Goodall as a kid and grew to love David Attenbouroughs nature documentaries as I got older. The footage they are able to get of the most intimate natural interactions always amazes me! When writing my own reflection, I never considered that watching these documentaries would impact my interpretation of natural art, or that they could even be seen as a type of art. It just never crossed my mind! Thinking about this now, I believe that this definitely impacts my perspective of the gift of beauty and finding the connection to the nature around me. I feel more connected to the natural processes of nature, knowing of all the things that are occurring behind the scenes. I also feel that I relate to you when you say that you are in a scientific major, but didn’t know what you were signing up for. I feel that I often stray away from ecological applications of science despite the fact that I love nature and being outside. I find it very interesting that I can love the physical application of nature, but at the same time dislike the technical application of studying ecology. It really is incredible how nature can act as a piece of art for others to enjoy and analyze, and it is all influenced by perspective. Thank you for your well thought out reflection!
Interpreting Nature through Art
For me, I feel that I do not have much experience interpreting nature through art. I am not an overly creative or artistic person, and as a result, I rarely find myself in art galleries or analyzing art. Because of this, when I am looking at art, I often find myself coming to conclusions exclusively based on my own perspective and opinions I have from other applications. I also only become drawn to art if I feel that I relate to it. For example, I would be more inclined to look at a painting of a beach that reminds me of my cottage than a picture of a large grassy field. This makes me appreciate it more if it brings up a happy memory. In the similar mindset, I can appreciate emotion in painting and feel for what is being translated. For example, I could examine a picture of rocky waves in an ocean and feel the anger and fear in them. I believe I can see these things because of my beliefs, but I often find it hard to analyze the message, intention or underlying meaning in art. I am more often drawn to bright colors and beautiful scenes than a meaningful image. In conclusion, answering the question of who I am as an interpreter, I feel that I am a personal interpreter, drawing from my own thoughts, opinions, experiences and emotions and letting that influence my interpretation of all things.
Reading this chapter, I really enjoyed the 15 guided principles and gifts of interpretation. Out of all of them, the gift of beauty was my favourite, so I was excited when seeing that it is discussed in this week's reflection. I believe that the gift of beauty is an extremely positive and encouraging component of interpretation that completely aligns with my goals and beliefs. I try to apply this to every time I am outside and taking in what is around me. Seeing the beneficial and positive attributes in the things around you not only helps yourself, but others too. Everything around us can be used in a happy way, people just have to get into the mindset of believing this. Because of this, the most important aspect of the gift of beauty is believing that you can see the positivity around yourself, which will create the desire and spiritual connection that is described. The gift of beauty is achievable for everyone, as it can be achieved visually, physically or auditorily, it just needs to be put into action with perspective. Additionally, I believe that the “gift of beauty” should be applied in almost every other aspect of our lives, not just in nature interpretation. Seeing the beauty in simple things makes day to day activities, choices and lifestyle more enjoyable. This mindset is one small step that can make our lives significantly more positive.
What role does “privilege” play in nature interpretation?
We’ve definitely discussed some heavy topics in this unit, however, it's important to shed light on these hardships.
For me, I would define privilege very similarly to how it was described with the unit 3 material. I think that privilege means having some sort of advantage over another, in general I typically think this means having an opportunity or obtaining something that's not available to everyone equally. I really like how it was discussed within the unit and referred to as an “invisible backpack” where one can utilize unearned assets that not everyone has access to (Hooykaas, 2024). The idea of these assets being unearned is really important to emphasize, as privilege is certainly something that one can be born into. I think about the example of having a Canadian Passport. I’ve recently done some traveling, going across to the US and even Australia. There are signs at the customs and border crossing lines that divide individuals by the passports that they hold. I’ve noticed that there are lines for Canadian passport holders, along with a few other countries, that have their own essentially accelerated lines. This is interesting to me considering I did absolutely nothing to receive a Canadian passport yet still receive this privileged treatment.
With regards to privilege and how it pertains to nature interpretation, I think we’re all very lucky in Canada to have access to a variety of nature sites and parks. This can be seen specifically when looking at locations such as Guelph. I have access to areas like the Arboretum, Guelph Lake, Speed River, and a variety of hiking trails and forested areas nearby. Additionally, many areas around southern Ontario are like this, and not too far away. Looking at Canada as a whole, there are isolated communities in Northern Canada which might not have the same availability to nature as we have here, and we need to recognize this as a privilege. .
Additionally, when discussing nature interpretation it’s important to recognize the educational aspect that we’re exposed to, specifically as an environmental science student. Because of the different classes and labs I’ve been able to attend, I’ve likely been able to learn more about natural processes and phenomena than the average person. Personally, when I leave the house, I can identify a variety of plant species and fully absorb what's going on around me. I can make connections between what I’m seeing and what I’ve learned in class. This certainly comes with a high degree of privilege as many don’t have the opportunity to learn about these ideas, let alone make connections between what they’re learning and their real lives.
I would love to hear everyone else's thoughts on this! I know I talked a little bit about my experience as an environmental science student, and how being able to apply and observe what I’ve learned in the classroom is a privilege, however I know many of us are in a variety of degrees. For those not in environmental science, how do you think your education has or hasn't impacted your ability to interpret nature?
References
Hooykaas, A. (2024).Hooykaas, A. (2024). ENVS*3000 Nature Interpretation course notes. Retrieved January 23, 2024, from https://courselink.uoguelph.ca/d2l/le/content/858004/viewContent/3640017/View
Hello!
I really enjoyed reading your post! In particular, I really like the discussion you had about the privilege of having a Canadian passport. I also did some traveling within the past year throughout Europe, and I was always grateful to have a Canadian passport as I could pass through the E-gates so quickly, while so many other people waited. While I was aware of this privilege, I never thought about it in the application of nature interpretation. Of course, this factor would strongly impact people's ability to travel and see different areas and types of nature. As a result, someone's perspectives and interpretations, having not been able to travel as easily, would be extremely different than someone who travels with ease. This privilege would change and even deter people's willingness to interpret nature. Similarly, I also really liked your point about the influence that education has on privilege. While being educated is a privilege, more privilege often comes to those who are educated, causing a never ending cycle. One's ability to be educated would strongly impact someone's interpretation and perceptions of nature. Like you, because of my education I am able to understand scientific aspects of nature. I believe that having this changes my interpretation of nature, but also makes me enjoy it more too! It makes me sad to think that so many people don't have the same experience, not because they don’t want to, but because they aren't educated in the same way that others are. Nature should be something that everyone can enjoy equally, regardless of privilege.
My Privileges in Nature
I define privilege as an advantage, in the form of opportunity, resource or right, that is available to only a specific selection of individuals. Reflecting on this, I believe that privilege plays a huge role in almost every aspect of our lives including nature interpretation, whether we want it to or not.
Growing up in a small town 3 hours north of Guelph, I had the privilege of being immersed in nature in my day to day life. I had a large yard that I played in as a child, and access to several hiking trails at the end of my neighborhood. My parents enrolled me in swimming lessons, and because of that I am a strong swimmer and was employed as a lifeguard and swim instructor in the past. This gave me the ability to swim in nearby lakes and enjoy the natural landscape that my hometown offers. I am extremely privileged to have these opportunities, and because of this, I have a surplus of experience in nature and interpreting my surroundings. I feel comfortable in nature and participating in outdoor activities like hiking, camping and swimming because of my familiarity with it. Reading through the instructors unit reflection, I realized that I often forget that not everyone has these experiences. Living in bigger cities, having access to these natural experiences looks very differently and can be more challenging. Because of this variation in accessibility, many people don't have a lot of experience in nature interpretation.
Looking at this globally, there are MANY parts of this world that do not have access to the natural resources that we have in Ontario and Canada. Cultural, political and economic differences make the availability of privilege globally unique. Additionally, standards of “enjoying nature” in Canada can consist of canoeing and hiking in the necessary attire and then returning to our homes. This is not the standard for many people in other countries and climates. Growing up with different experiences and privileges in nature, it likely causes a different interpretation of the nature around us and what aspects of your surroundings are important. For example, placing a Canadian and a European in the same environment and asking them to interpret their surroundings, it is likely that both individuals will have very different opinions as a result of their own privileges and biases. Nature interpretation is extremely subjective, based on background and past experience. The more privilege you have in a natural setting, the more your perspectives might change.
This unit brought to light the accidental ignorance that I had built for privilege in nature interpretation and made me realize that I need to be more aware of the differences in resources and perspectives amongst others the next time I am interpreting nature. I am extremely grateful for the opportunities in nature I have been able to have throughout my life, and I want to strive to make these experiences more accessible to others in any way I can.
My Ideal Role as an Environmental Interpreter
My ideal role as an environmental interpreter would likely look like me taking a group of people on a hike/walk in the forest and teaching them about plants and their medicinal value. I don’t know a great deal about this topic currently but I know enough that I can go on a walk and name some of the plants I’d see (thanks to my plant-loving mom). I hope to learn more about plant identification in the future as well as medicinal uses of these plants which can be very useful in a pinch. I think these things are best learned from someone in your community giving a hands-on learning environment. In this way, people of all learning types can get something out of the experience because you are speaking to them, showing them, and actively using and showing the plants. I would hand out booklets with the information spoken as well for those who prefer to read and process information on their own. Forest walks are not accessible by everyone so I’d like to have this information online as well for those who can’t be there in person.
Guelph is a great location for this kind of learning because there are so many access points to nature. I currently don’t drive but if I did I would do some walks out in a further forest that would be more remote and I would host some on the Royal Recreation Trail for those like me so they can access it by foot or bus. The fact that we experience all four seasons, and beautifully so, in Guelph adds another layer to this job. I would be going out in very hot and very cold temperatures which may not always be ideal but this is my dream job so I would still enjoy it! Nature transforms throughout each of those seasons, making what I present to each group slightly different based on the time of year and which plants are in season.
This job requires a lot of skills including teaching, understanding, problem solving, organization, creativity and communication. Firstly, I’d need to learn more about how different people learn and possible nuances in this that I may come across while in this position. I’ll need to educate myself further about this topic and on how to communicate what I’ve learned to others. I will want to make my nature walks as engaging as possible which requires a lot of creativity and organization to put something together that people will find valuable. Thus, this is a journey I’m excited to delve further into and take you all along with me. I hope to expand my skills in all of these areas through learning and teaching and hopefully one day be able to make this dream a reality.
Hi there!
I think your role as a hiking/walking guide for the Guelph area is an incredible idea and something so many people could benefit from! Living in the city of Guelph, many people don’t consider the value of the natural resources around here since we don’t have as abundant resources as some other areas. Looking at the medicinal uses of nearby plants, to me, is extremely fascinating and could help locals gain a greater appreciation for our green space. I admit that I don’t know much about it myself, but I think it would be so cool to learn! You mentioned that this knowledge comes from your mom who loves plants… Do you find this knowledge useful in any day to day applications? Additionally, I really liked how you discussed how to make this program inclusive to everyone. You truly considered every type of learning style and personal ability, which is so extremely important and not enough companies do it! I think this would create further interest as well, since there is something for everyone! I can tell just through your blog that this is a passion of yours, which would enhance the learning opportunities and engagement in this adventure. I also really liked that this role can be carried into all 4 seasons, with each season providing its own range of benefits. This could encourage locals to go outside in the winter and enjoy the snow, as many people tend to stay in to avoid the cold (me included!). Your discussion today opened me up to a whole new world of nature interpretation that I didn’t really know existed here in Guelph so thank you!
