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DISCLAIMER
This blog was created for ENVS 3000 F24, 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.
The final blog post
I have spent my life interpreting nature even before I realized it. I seek nature’s interpretation to expand knowledge, interest and enthusiasm (Beck et al. 2018, p.12). I have often found myself interpreting through museums, campgrounds, hikes, and visitors centres. Over the years, as my knowledge of the connections and interactions within nature expands, my interpretations become more applicable to my education, allowing me to exercise and expand my learned knowledge. When I am interpreting, there are several things I look to achieve and take away from the experience. This course specifically has taught me to allow my interpretations to be more open-minded, allowing me to see the connections when I reflect on my past experiences interpreting the world (Beck et al. 2018, pg. 13). These connections help me understand why something made me feel a certain way, or why a specific event might be so clear in my memory. This course has taught me to feel and connect my emotions through interpretation, whether it be art, nature, or music. In terms of my personal ethics regarding interpretation, I will never be the person to push boundaries within interpretation for the amusement of my own fascination. Pushing these boundaries offers risk of losing opportunities for anyone else which is not ethical. When at a museum if they say don’t touch something, regardless of if touching it will impact it’s quality I will not touch it. Or if on a hike and there’s a sign stating that these rocks are sensitive don’t step on them I would not push the boundaries for the security of knowing that others will get the same experience when they visit. I feel these are ethics and morals that should go without said, especially for people who often visit nature and might be seen as a role model. I am so strict within these rules for myself because I can recall one time my family was viewing these rocks on a hike in northern Ontario that were so impressively balanced on each other for hundreds of years, and just days before we visited, one of them had been pushed over by people who ignored the boundaries and it was so disappointing for us.
In terms of my personal beliefs regarding interpretation, I am often fascinated by observing and thinking or discussing with others. Especially in natures surroundings like hikes, I do not feel the need to interact or disturb nature’s processes, rather observe with fascination and apply my knowledge. I feel this allows for a more successful interpretation because you are watching experiences that would occur if you were or were not there. When watching nature, it is so interesting to wonder. When watching the squirrels, I love wondering what their mental processes are at the moment of our interaction. This goes hand in hand with the ethics of respecting boundaries. As someone who is in school for zoology, people are starting to come to me for questions about certain animals or situations within nature. People are starting to look towards me to feel comfortable within nature and that tells me I need to work even harder to be the best role model possible.
As someone who is very passionate and becoming educated about the contexts of natures and its interactions, there are several things I am responsible for when it comes to interpreting nature. I am a part of a group of people who are responsible for the quality of our nature and its future. Although I do not work or display myself in public opportunities for interpretation, I do have goals for my future. In whatever I might enroll myself in I have the responsibility to maintain accuracy of information, ethical information, and I will never share a belief for the point of pleasing others, I will always spread information that I also believe in and feel passion towards (Beck et al., 2018 p. 37). In my personal life, my responsibilities include the maintenance of stewardship to stay connected with the goals, beliefs, and cultural morals that portray themselves within whatever I might be interpreting (Beck et al., 2018 p. 37). This will allow for the stories, connections and history expression to stay present (Beck et al., 2018, p. 37).
I work at a dog boarding and daycare facility and I always love answering peoples questions about dog behaviour, why they do certain things, and further informing people on how their dogs might thrive better. All of my answers to peoples questions come from experience, and knowledge. My enjoyment of answering these questions tells me I would thrive in a position where this situation can be applied to nature. I have considered working at trailer parks, or volunteering to do nature lessons with rescued animals, and as someone who might have this future role, there are many responsibilities. These include but are not limited to, the promotion of knowledge towards conservation, educating people on how they can improve themselves or just educating to make more people aware of an issue, engaging people within my lessons without creating disruption, and applying the knowledge to other scenarios like cultures, beliefs, or background information. All this would be present while demonstrating ethical behaviour myself. I can be successful in an advocacy educational role by applying knowledge learned from this course, like different learning behaviours, understanding how to grasp the attention of diverse audiences, and understanding where I would fit in best to educate my audience.
These blog posts have forced me to interpret my life experiences through a new lens. They have allowed me to explore my emotional connections and understand my memories. In an ideal world where I have more time, I would enjoy beginning to journal because connecting my blog posts with my thoughts is something I have enjoyed doing. Starting a journal as inspiration from these blog posts would allow me to deeply understand myself and I also enjoy going back and reading my initial interpretations of the blog prompts to see how I would change my answer now. Finally, this course has taught me that I have unknowingly been interpreting nature this whole time.
Reference
Beck, L., Cable, T. T., Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage: For a Better World. Sagamore Publishing LLC. https://sagamore.vitalsource.com/books/9781571678669
Hi Kayla! It was fascinating to read through your post and learn about the evolution of your perspective in nature interpretation. It is refreshing to see how your overall journey deepened your sense of responsibility and your personal ethics. Within the media these days, I feel as though respect for boundaries– be it personal or in a setting like a museum– is lacking. Respect for others and the world around us is something that is vital to preserving the world that we have today. If we act recklessly, I fear that earth might become like one of the many dystopian movies out there.
Reading on how you use your job as an opportunity to educate and inform others about dog behavior is inspiring. Dogs are certainly one of the more common pets in the world. Especially for first-time owners, your openness to answer questions and help them is surely relieving to them. Being able to share knowledge with conservation and education in mind, whether in parks or rescue facilities are all important in nature interpretation.
Lastly, I would highly recommend journaling even after the end of this course! Coming from personal experience, putting your thoughts down on paper can be nearly therapeutic. It allows you to process your emotions and think deeper about your own experiences, and in turn learn more about yourself, others, and the world around us. Bridging knowledge with a heartfelt appreciation for nature makes it exciting to imagine where this path might lead.
Final Post
Describe your personal ethic as you develop as a nature interpreter. What beliefs do you bring? What responsibilities do you have? What approaches are most suitable for you as an individual?
Understanding and defining one’s personal ethic is a highly individual journey, particularly in fields deeply connected to values and beliefs, like nature interpretation. Ethics can vary widely between people, and for good reason: each of us brings our own perspectives, life experiences, and guiding principles to the table. For me, one foundational belief is that there is rarely one “correct” answer; rather, there are often multiple valid decisions that depend on the person, context, and situation.
When I say there’s no real right answer, I mean that each decision is subjective and based on a unique blend of factors, especially in the context of nature and human experience. Consider the question, “Is summer camp beneficial for kids?” The answer isn’t black and white. It depends on the child’s interests, physical capabilities, and socioeconomic background. A child who thrives outdoors and loves adventure might find camp life-changing, while another might feel anxious and out of place. This way of thinking is part of my ethic as a nature interpreter: respecting the diversity of people’s experiences and the idea that different paths can lead to meaningful connections with nature.
In my journey through this course, I have felt that this field of work reminds me of characters like the Lorax, who famously “speaks for the trees.” Though it may sound crazy, I see a similarity in my role. Like the Lorax, nature interpreters spend extensive time immersed in natural environments, making a connection that’s mental, physical, and emotional. We act as intermediaries between the natural world and people who might not have had similar experiences, guiding them to explore and appreciate nature in a safe and meaningful way. This role comes with a profound responsibility to share our understanding and to inspire conservation efforts. Maybe the most critical aspect of my ethic as a nature interpreter is the responsibility to use my knowledge and experiences in ways that support activism and conservation. Knowing about the natural world isn’t just a personal advantage; it’s a tool to be used in the service of preservation. Our planet’s health is a shared responsibility, and I believe that those of us with the privilege of deep interaction with nature have an obligation to help where we can.
The role I see myself playing is one of advocacy, although not necessarily on the grand scale of figures like Greta Thunberg. Thunberg’s impact as a climate activist from Sweden has captured global attention since 2019, particularly with her powerful words: “You have stolen my dreams and my childhood with your empty words…We are in the beginning of a mass extinction, and all you can talk about is money, and fairy tales of eternal economic growth. How dare you!” (Britannica, 2024). Her courage and passion are qualities I admire. This statement, especially, feels like a kind of call to arms, and it resonates with my hopes to protect the natural world for future generations. What connects me to an activist role is precisely the meaning in Thunberg’s words. Much of my motivation in pursuing nature interpretation is driven by my concerns about the future. I relate to Thunberg’s frustration and urgency because, like her, I am deeply invested in helping the environment for those who have yet to experience it, whether they are unborn or otherwise. I’m grateful for the experiences I’ve had in nature, which have provided me with a sense of purpose and emotional growth. It’s difficult to imagine future generations missing out on these same experiences. Knowing that the beauty of natural places might not be there for future children if things don’t change is so difficult to imagine.
Every role in nature interpretation is valuable, and I view the field as a collective movement working toward mutual goals: understanding, protecting, and communicating nature’s value. While my focus might lean toward activism, there are countless ways nature interpreters can foster respect and love for the environment. Whether it’s through educational programs, immersive experiences, or leading conservation efforts, each approach is vital. After all, each step toward connecting people with the natural world ultimately contributes to the broader mission of protecting it. In my view, showcasing the beauty of natural landscapes is essential to encouraging others to value and protect them. When people experience awe in the face of a forest, river, or mountain, it stirs something within them. This awe can be a powerful motivator, urging people to support conservation efforts and perhaps even act against environmental challenges like deforestation, pollution, and climate change. Through guided hikes, storytelling, and sharing personal experiences, nature interpreters have the unique opportunity to influence perspectives and inspire positive change. One of the most rewarding aspects of nature interpretation would be helping others see the world with new eyes, whether they’re encountering a familiar landscape in a new season or observing a species they’d never noticed before. By offering these moments of connection, we help people build a personal relationship with the environment. Ideally, these relationships evolve into a sense of responsibility and commitment to the well-being of the planet.
In conclusion, my personal ethic as a nature interpreter involves advocating for thoughtful, inclusive approaches to experiencing and understanding nature. By respecting diverse perspectives and embracing multiple “right” answers, I would aim to create a space where all individuals feel welcome in exploring the natural world. With this approach, I would hope to inspire respect, protect fragile ecosystems, and pass on the same love for nature that has given my life such meaning. For me, the path forward involves not just interpreting nature, but using my role to stand up for it and protect it, and to ensure that its wonder and significance are preserved for future generations.
It was awesome reading everyones posts through this course and seeing everyones responses. You all did amazing!
References
Britannica, T. Editors of Encyclopaedia. (2024, November 12). Greta Thunberg. Encyclopedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/biography/Greta-Thunberg
Hey Hunter! Your post beautifully encapsulates the essence of what it means to be a nature interpreter. I particularly agree with your idea that there is nearly never only one correct answer. Everyone holds their own perspectives, ideas, and experiences that validate their own opinions. I find nature interpretation is as much about empathy and inclusivity as it is about education.
I found your connection to the Lorax rather amusing, and true. Everyone’s probably seen that movie at least once, be it at home or in school. Reflecting back on the movie, it’s a painful reminder of how no matter how many warnings you might give, there are still some people that won’t listen until we feel the full consequences of our actions. However, as interpreters, I believe it is part of our responsibility to continue advocating for the earth and mother nature. The role extends beyond just sharing knowledge, it also involves inspiring action in others.
I also appreciate how you draw parallels between your own journey and Greta Thunberg’s activism. I remember hearing about her for the first time, and admiring how at such a young age, she was able to have her voice reach millions around the world. It is a collective effort to combat environmental challenges; not one person can fix everything. Helping others experience awe in nature is one of the most powerful tools we have as interpreters.
Thanks for sharing! It’s been a privilege to learn from your perspective.
BLOG 10: The Final Post
Algonquin Park - Kong 2024
Seeing that this was the last blog post for this semester brought back a small feeling of disappointment, but also gratitude. Back in the summer during course selection, I had no idea what to expect when I registered for this course. “Nature Interpretation,” I thought, “sounds like fun!” One thing I can say with certainty is that seeing the perspectives and ideas about nature interpretation from others taking the course has been a source of inspiration. Reading and reflecting on unique experiences has allowed me to fully appreciate nature in new ways.
My personal ethic I’ve developed as a nature interpreter stems from the core values I held before, and try to live up to in my everyday life: honesty, accountability, empathy, kindness, and respect just to name a few. Those traits tie into a saying I strongly believe in; always aim to leave the world better than you found it, and focus on the things that change the world for the better. I believe it’s important to lead by example and to teach future generations about the value of the world around us. Fostering a sense of wonder and curiosity about the natural world encourages others to see the extraordinary in the ordinary– an important trait to hold so we don’t get carried away in our everyday lives. It is vital to realize that nature isn’t just a resource for us to use. It’s a living system, deserving of respect and care. Ecosystems are complex and delicate, and if we want to preserve that beauty, the education of future generations is important. One particular lesson that stuck with me (that we learned in this course) is that everyone, regardless of background, should have access to natural spaces and feel welcome in them.
In today’s world, it’s difficult to avoid feeling disheartened about the state of our earth. The effects of climate change in particular– warming oceans, melting glaciers, rising temperatures– are consistently present in discussions surrounding the environment. As a Zoology major, much of my focus is on understanding different ecosystems and the animals that inhabit them. A lot of my courses have been focusing on research and lab reports. I’ve analyzed a variety of topics, a lot of which highlight the influence of climate change on biodiversity and habitat stability. Climate change will forever impact our world, but there are things we can do to try and minimize its effects. As a nature interpreter, my responsibility is twofold: to educate, and to inspire. A core belief I hold is education and connection is the foundation for conservation. As people learn and experience the natural world, they’re more likely to care for it. People are more likely to be inspired to pursue a career within biology or majors that can contribute to change. Nature is resilient. Though it’s threatened, damaged ecosystems can still recover with a little bit of our help, and through our support, we can make a difference. Personally, I like to interpret in a style that pertains more to storytelling. I find blending scientific facts with emotional connections makes the information and experience more memorable. Sharing stories, hands-on interaction, and empathy-based communication I feel are all effective ways to interpret to your audience. I realize that I am privileged to be well educated and have easy access to nature– and as an interpreter, being able to share those kinds of experiences is part of that privilege.
As this course concludes, I believe it’s the perfect time to finally directly answer the three questions posed at the beginning of the semester: who am I as an interpreter, who is my audience, and how can I make this experience meaningful? I already dove into it a little bit earlier in this post, but I’d like to give some more in-depth answers.
Who am I as an Interpreter?
As an interpreter, I am an advocate for connecting people and nature. Through the use of education and storytelling, I strive to inspire action and appreciation for the natural world in my audience. Being a Zoology major, I bring a strong foundation of ecological knowledge and a passion for conservation and understanding the challenges our planet faces.
Who is my audience?
My audience is diverse. It can range from nature enthusiasts and eager students to those with little experience or connection to the outdoors. Each member has their own, unique perspective and has their own “invisible backpack”. Without being able to form connections with your audience, it becomes difficult to fully understand them. It’s important to adapt to everyone's learning methods to the best of your abilities to create an inclusive environment.
How can I make this experience meaningful?
Creating personal connections and experiences that people can take home and reflect on can make an interpreting experience meaningful. Activities like identifying local species, bird watching, or understanding ecological processes first hand can inspire someone more compared to reading off of a slideshow in a classroom. I can create experiences that resonate with people on a personal level, and help them see how nature is part of their daily lives.
My core beliefs and personal ethics help ground me. Ultimately, my goal as a nature interpreter is to empower and inspire others to be active participants in preserving our planet, leaving this world as beautiful as it is now for future generations.
With that being said, thank you for this great semester everyone! Good luck on your final exams!
Unit 9 Blog Post
Let’s imagine this together: you are sitting under a tree, and the branches give you shade from the warm afternoon-evening sun, there is a slight wispy breeze just flowing through your hair, tickling your face while you close your eyes and feel the slivers of sun beaming your face as it pokes in between the branches. This is peaceful, serene and absolutely beautiful. To me, this is as beautiful as nature gets, these individual portions work together to provide our nature.
Now I want you to take a step back and instead of trying to analyze these portions individually, I want you to take a look at nature as one grand painting that canvasses different ecosystems, environments, seasons, species, etc. Nature works in one big cycle in which all these systems work in a positive feedback loop and benefit each other. As the sun cracks through dawn and provides sun, photosynthesis will allow a beautiful plant to flower and provide pollen to bees who will then make honey. Beautiful monarch butterflies provide colorful springs and summers but when they start to feel the cold, they move to different, warmer regions to provide their colors elsewhere, before new ones come back to us again. It is almost as if nature is in tune with one another, as if nature has its own circadian rhythm and they work in a graceful choreography to create this beautiful painting.
You may be annoyed with me on this one, but I often revisit the Edward Hyams quote because of how true it runs to nature. Analyzing and understanding that nature is interconnected and how different factors work together for the preservation of different ecosystems and species can provide a deeper connection on how we appreciate the overall cycle of nature. Interconnectedness can run as deep as the trees who may be far apart but their roots are all intertwined together that signify how they all work in one complex network.
Nature also appeals to all our senses because I think the true essence of nature interpretation is how we FEEL when we hear or see things. For example, the beginning prose of my blog serves the purpose of allowing you to visualize and feel what I felt when I was in nature. I used distinctive words to help guide you and sometimes it also elicits the reader to connect my experience with something similar of their own and they feel the importance of this specific memory to me. I have even had people who have described salty beach air and all of a sudden it reminds me of my own trip to Sri Lanka and I can smell the salty beach air. In a way, we all connect into this system and although there are many of us who harm, there are also much much more of us who love and protect nature signifying our place in this system as well.
When you read all this, can you picture what I am trying to emulate?
Absolutely, I can picture what you’re trying to emulate! Your descriptive writing places the reader in a detailed scene of resting, or maybe walking within a forest. It’s easy to get lost into the details of the scenery around us, especially if it’s nature. In my own blog post, I did something similar, except with the setting of an ocean. Stepping back to see nature as a cohesive and interconnected system can be a powerful thought. When you describe each element of nature working together in a complex network, I have to agree with it. I feel as though on surface level, not many people realize how complicated the world really is. How even the smallest of things play a large part in keeping the world in balance.
The analysis of Edward Hyams quote from our previous blog posts really resonated with me. It reminds us that every part of nature is an intricate network, and how we need to remember the connections and complexities of nature.
Thank you for bringing such an inspired perspective to life—it's a reminder that the best way to protect nature is by feeling deeply connected to it. This blog doesn’t just bring us to nature; it brings nature to us, helping us see how we’re all part of the same beautiful system.
BLOG 9: Amazing Things About Nature
Sunset in Greece - Kong, 2024
When posed with the question, “what's the most amazing thing you know about nature?” I admittedly get a bit stumped. I’m reminded of my various encounters I’ve had with nature, and how in one way or another, everyone around me is fascinated in the same way as I am, maybe even more.The world holds an uncountable number of wonders, and yet everything is interconnected one way or another in a complicated web. It's fascinating to see how every being in the world synergizes with each other. Plants provide oxygen for organisms through photosynthesis, decaying matter is processed by decomposers like fungi and different kinds of invertebrates, and we all know about predators and prey. Everything in this world holds a purpose, no matter how big or how small; nothing goes to waste. So, for this particular blog post, I decided to focus on mother nature as a whole. Nature itself is amazing in a way that words can’t describe.
I want you, the reader, to take a moment to just imagine. You’re sitting atop a hill, and the sun has just begun to set. A salty breeze of wind blows past you, carrying the scent of the sea. It’s cool and refreshing, but mingles with the warmth of the setting sun. Just above you, there’s a few seabirds circling above the water. Maybe one dives down into the ocean, looking for a fish. The sky is painted with a mix of orange and pinkish hues, and the sea stretches as far as you can see, beyond the horizon. Now picture what lies beneath the waves. There’s a breathtaking diversity of animals, the very core of nature. From gentle giants like the blue whale to the microscopic plankton. One, we can’t even see with the naked eye, yet they play such a large part in creating the oxygen within the water which every marine organism relies on. Blue whales have the ability to store carbon within their bodies, and play a big part in the transport of nutrients to keep the ecosystem balanced; directly aiding in climate change, which I’m sure we all know is an increasing problem within our world.
And humans are in the center of it. Every sip of water, every breath, every weather pattern. It’s humbling to think that the water we see today has likely traveled the entire world, strong enough to shift continents and nurture ecosystems. No matter where you are in the world, take a moment to really look and think, to appreciate nature in the various ways it works and contributes to the world. Because nature is really, really amazing.
Unit 07 Blog - Music in Nature
We can recognize that both music and nature share a common appreciation in our human experience. Music has unique patterns of sounds provoking emotion, social, cultural and cognitive purposes (Gray et al., 2001). Whether it’s the unified sounds of the forest or the calling of songbird – sound and music indirectly inviting us to connect with nature in different yet meaningful ways.
“Where is music in nature?” - Music can be found all around us in many aspects of nature, whether that is the crashing of waves, the pitter-patter of rainfall, the rolling of thunder or simply the rustling of leaves in the wind. Each of these sounds remind us that nature holds music within its patterns and rhythms. Yet one of the most recognizable presences of music in nature is in the animal kingdom, where species such as whales and birds communicate in a similar way parallel to our own music. Gray et al. explains how whales are “composers” of the ocean, where their songs can travel for miles underwater or how birds use musical compositions through specialized vocal structures to communicate their songs (Gray et al., 2001). Each of these sounds in nature carry meaning, much like our own music!
Humans, being a part of nature, also play a significant role in the presence of music in nature. Although Gray et al. suggests we may be late in using music as communication, our own music has long reflected the rhythms of nature through cultural traditions. This can be heard in many Indigenous and folk music where nature is intertwined within music through sounds like birds whistling and coyotes howling. The integration of nature into music connecting us with the natural world and its rhythms. As touched upon in Unit 04 in our course, Interpretation through Art, we explored how the cognitive connection through an artistic lens can help foster connections and inspiration within nature. This is arguably one of the most fundamental aspects of inspiring and making strong, lasting connections in nature interpretation. Through music, we engage with nature on an intellectual and emotional level, deepening our connection.
(Albrecht, 2024)
One song that takes me back to nature is “Sleep On The Floor” by The Lumineers. During a spontaneous late summer trip in 2022, my friends and I took some time off work to go up north - hitting a few provincial parks on our way. This song by The Lumineers played on repeat as we took in the crisp northern air while summer was coming to an end. Listening to this song now brings me right back into those moments sitting around a campfire under the stars, the stillness of the northern lakes at dawn and the feeling of navigating windy backroads to avoid Labour Day weekend traffic. I find it amazing how listening to specific songs can bring back so many memories with intertwined emotion. Importantly, this depicts my relationship with the interconnectedness of nature and music.
References:
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. https://link.gale.com/apps/doc/A69270354/AONE?u=guel77241&sid=bookmark-AONE&xid=fb9366a8
Hi Zipporah! I had a fun time reading your post. I fully agree that music can be found all around us, varying from the natural environment to the animals that live within those environments. Birdsongs are something that is commonly heard, especially during the warmer months of the year. While not many people tend to stop and listen, I believe it's one of the smaller things everyone should take a moment to appreciate every now and then. Though it may seem like something insignificant to us, birdsong plays a significant role in the ecosystem. It serves as a means of communication to one another, like how we as humans speak to communicate.
As Gray et al. (2001) pointed out, species like whales and birds use musical structures to convey meaning, revealing that music is not merely a human invention but a fundamental aspect of life on Earth. Our relationship with music is deeply rooted in our biological heritage, encouraging us to recognize the emotional aspects that it can evoke. The Indigenous Peoples have numerous cultural traditions that weave together with music and nature, as many songs tie to the environment around them.
I believe that taking a moment to appreciate the music of nature, and the nature of music, can profoundly enrich our lives. It can lead to a deeper understanding and appreciation of our place within the natural ecosystem, and encourage us to engage with the world in a more meaningful way. Thanks for the great post Zipporah, I’m looking forward to seeing more from you!
References
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. https://link.gale.com/apps/doc/A69270354/AONE?u=guel77241&sid=bookmark-AONE&xid=fb9366a8
BLOG 7: Nature and Music
Music and nature are ingrained within one another, albeit the way music is shown in nature is a little different to how we perceive music to be. Personally, when the word ‘music’ is used, I first think songs and artists. Big celebrities like Taylor Swift, Adele, and Hozier come to mind. Different genres like pop and classical are also a first thought. However, when looking at how it intertwines into nature, music becomes so much more.
At the break of every dawn, you can hear the birds begin to sing, signifying the rise of the sun. In different forms of media, we commonly associate birds with music. For instance, Snow White. She is shown singing with the birds, whose tunes slowly merge with the soundtrack. Birds are commonly used as musical accompaniments in films like Snow White and Cinderella, where they create harmonies and interact as if they’re in sync with the characters. However, they are not the only creatures that ‘sing’ in nature. Many animals use sounds and melodies to attract mates, signal their territories, or even to simply communicate with others of their species. Whales, for example, create long, complex songs that can travel vast distances underwater. Music in nature serves as a complex network of sounds, each having their own, important meaning, but serving as a pleasant tune to our ears. For centuries, musicians have been inspired by the sounds of nature.
In today's norm of ‘music’, the thought of nature might not come to mind immediately. Most songs follow a common trend of finding love or heartbreak, as artists write lyrics that their audience can primarily relate to in some way, shape or form. However, Indigenous people commonly incorporate the theme of nature in their musical traditions, both physically and spiritually. The instruments they use are commonly made from materials you can find in the environment; seeds, wood, and animal parts (Hoefnagels 2011). Hoefnagels (2011) states these instruments are treated with the utmost care, as they are seen as sacred within the Indigenous community. Their music also frequently incorporates sounds that mimic nature like the rustling of leaves or rushing of water. In Indigenous culture, music as a whole is deeply ingrained with their culture, as it served as a way to pass on historical narratives, legends, and general expression (McLeod 2024).
Composers like Beethoven also incorporated birdsongs in their music to connect their pieces with nature. In this post, I’ve linked one of his pieces; Symphony No. 6 in F major, which incorporates different bird sounds. I believe this particular piece of music does well to convey how nature can feel; whimsical, peaceful, and calm. But pieces such as Allegro, where the music is more fast-paced, gives a sense of urgency and serves a bit of a warning; to never get too comfortable in nature, as it is still the place where danger can lurk around every corner.
Overall, I believe that music and nature go hand in hand. But in order to dig deeper into how they connect with each other, we have to dive back into our history.
References
Hoefnagels, A. (2011) Music of Indigenous Peoples in Canada. The Canadia Encyclopedia. https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/first-peoples-music
McLeod, D. (2024). Heartbeat of a People. Canadian Museum for Human Rights. https://humanrights.ca/story/heartbeat-people
Unit 06 blog post
Hi everyone!
As I read this 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…", one of the things that came to mind was our relationship with the past. The quote indicates that the past should not be valued simply because it is old, but the integrity of things that exist beyond a certain period of time must still be preserved. It is understanding and remembering what came before that provides the insight necessary to keep a coherent whole, whether in society, tradition, or our own private lives, together. “Integrity entails the keeping together of the parts”, this part of the quote produces interesting questions as to what extent the past continues to have relevance for the present. Take environmental issues, for instance. It is a very modern concern, yet deeply rooted in ancient practices. For centuries, indigenous peoples worked very hard to be in balance with nature, and failure to understand that might cause us to miss out on some key information about how to care for our Earth. Not learning from ancient wisdom compromises our current environmental efforts. On the other hand, not all things passed on from the past are worth preserving. For example, the old ideologies of sexism, racism, and colonialism need to be left behind. The quote recognizes that the value of all things ancient lies not in their inherent worth but rather in the wisdom they teach about what should be preserved and what should be let go. To maintain wholeness in the integrity of living today, we have to carefully pick which elements of the past support that wholeness and which elements do not.
I found the railway station analogy to be very powerful: “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 passage of the quote makes me think of a train ride I took last summer in Switzerland, through tiny villages and scenery that seemed to be only a brief glimpse of another world. But that does not mean the towns and people that lived in them disappeared just because I moved on. The past is similar to those towns: it does not get erased just because we have moved on through it, it continues to shape the present whether we like it or not.
This is a picture of one of the beautiful towns I passed by, while on the train.
This led me to think; how do we determine what pieces of the past are worth keeping? I think the answer lies in whether those pieces contribute to sustaining integrity. In my own life, I’ve let go of family customs that felt more like obligations than meaning, but I’ve held on to others, like gathering for family dinners, because they keep a sense of connection and wholeness.
Ultimately, the past should neither be idolized nor discarded. It is but a part of the whole, and integrity means knowing which parts serve us in staying in touch with our selves of today.
Hi Chloe!
Your interpretation of the quote beautifully captures how our relationship with the past shapes the present. I agree with how not everything from the past deserves to be valued just because it’s old. We need to understand what continues to hold value in today's world that helps keep things whole and connected. Environmental issues like global warming have been going on since before we were born. Arguably, Indigenous people treated the earth much better than we do today, living in harmony in nature and only taking what they needed. Ignoring their traditions and culture and being unwilling to learn will only bring more harm to our earth. However, I agree wholeheartedly that concepts such as sexism and racism should be left behind in the past if we wish to choose a path that keeps us balanced and connected as a whole.
I’m envious you got the opportunity to take a train through Switzerland and see the smaller things it has to offer– an experience like that really opens your eyes to some things. The past is something that we cannot change, reverse back to, or ignore. Even though it may be out of sight, it will continue to exist and influence our lives. How we decide what to keep and what to discard is a question that is hard to answer. But first and foremost, I think we should consider whether or not it maintains a sense of identity in ourselves and whether or not it encourages growth and progress.
BLOG 6: Nature Interpretation Through History
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)
Unpack this quote.
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When it comes to pieces of art and poems, I’m one that enjoys deciphering the messages that are hidden between the lines. This particular quote by Edward Hyams is no exception. I’d like to break this quote down piece by piece, as I believe it holds quite an important message that we should continue to value to this day.
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 through time, then the maintenance of integrity entails a knowledge, a memory, of ancient things…
This particular sentence speaks volumes to me, as it takes a little bit more interpretation than the latter of the quote to fully understand it. The first part of the quote, “there is no peculiar merit in ancient things”, suggests that being old or ancient doesn’t inherently make something valuable. However, to fully understand this quote, we must first solidify the definition of merit. Referring to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, the closest definition that we can relate to this quote is “a praiseworthy quality”, as the quote later mentions there is merit in integrity. It describes how in integrity, we unlock the ability to preserve something whole instead of in pieces. The quote also suggests that even if we do lose it into pieces, by using our memeory and knowledge of our history we can continue to keep it intact. Knowing our history with nature and how we came to be is essential as it allows one to understand how the past contributes to the present.
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.
The latter half of the quote is an analogy that tells us that if we make the decision that the past has no impact on the future, it is the same as believing that a railway station loses its existence after the train has already passed through it. We can assume that it suggests that just because we have moved beyond a certain point in time, it does not mean it ceases to exist or hold significance. The present is connected to the past, and to be ignorant enough to disregard it would be ignoring what shaped up to what and who we are today.
This quote holds a significant importance when we connect it to nature interpretation through history. In most high school history curriculums, we learn about the history of Canada’s land, Indigenous cultures, and historical events. The history of wars and colonization in Canada undeniably impacted the environment, displacing Indigenous communities and altering landscapes. But by keeping these parts of history together, we can interpret nature in a way that acknowledges its natural beauty and the cultural and historical contexts that have shaped it.
References
Merit. (2024). In Merriam-Webster Dictionary. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/merit
Unit 5 Blog Post
An open blog like this is a good way for me to express how my personal view of nature interpretation has impacted my life and hobbies. Since I can remember, I've had this deep passion for exploration—going somewhere that not many other people have and doing activities that aren’t touristy or “popular.” When I go on vacation, I don’t go to a resort, or on a guided tour somewhere, I prefer to create the trip myself, rent a car and explore the area on my own. When planning my trips I tend to make a list of interesting areas that I’d like to explore while over there and loosely make my agenda around that. While I’m on my “vacation” I really don’t like the idea of everything being so scheduled, as it is at a resort or a cruise. On my trip to Alberta in 2022 I booked a plane ticket, a car, and a few nights in a hostel and went for it! The spontaneity of adventure excites me and makes it interesting to explore new areas without it being so planned out. When I travel, I would prefer to do hikes and other natural experiences as opposed to shopping or dining out. I’m not saying that doing these things are incorrect, or not a proper way to enjoy one's vacation, but these activities aren’t for me. As I said earlier the sense of exploration is what fuels my adventures, and what has crafted my personal view of successful nature interpretation. I enjoy telling stories about the areas I have visited because chances are, if I’m talking to someone else who has been there as well, we have had a completely different experience, but that is what makes individual nature interpretation amazing. Everyone has different preferences, likes and dislikes.
I've attached a picture of my friend Spencer’s, 1999 Volkswagen Jetta with a canoe strapped on top. This just may seem like a low-quality picture of a 25-year-old vehicle, which it most certainly is, but it is also so much more. This was taken in the summer of 2020, a rough summer for some people with the COVID-19 pandemic. Lucky for me this was one of the best summers of my life as this is when I lived and worked in Algonquin Provincial Park. On our days off we would always go camping and more often than not we would take this very car and canoe on our trips. The stories me and my buddies can talk about that summer are truly a gift, and I thought that this picture with some explanation would be able to convey just a bit of that energy I experienced that summer.
Hi Ethan! I can heavily relate to your passion for spontaneity and exploration. No matter where I travel to, I find there's always something special about exploring areas that aren't flooded with tourists or boxed into strict itineraries—where you can just lose yourself in nature and truly appreciate it for its raw beauty. It’s in those quiet, less-visited places where you often have the most surreal experiences. Like you, I prefer to avoid the “popular” spots and instead take in the surroundings at my own pace. Nature almost has a different feel when you’re not in the middle of a crowded trail.
I have to admit, I’m a bit jealous of that incredible summer you had in Algonquin with your friend. There’s something so nostalgic and freeing about road trips with friends, especially when you're not just passing through but really immersing yourself in the wilderness. I can only imagine the stories that Jetta holds—canoe strapped on top, winding through those forested roads, with no set destination in mind but endless possibilities ahead. It’s the kind of experience I’ve always dreamed of, and I hope one day I can do something similar. I think that sense of exploration and being in sync with nature is what makes our experiences unique. Like you said, even if someone else has been to the same place, the journey feels completely different, and that’s the beauty of it. Thanks for sharing your experience!
BLOG 5: Birds!
Hi everyone! Much to my surprise, this week's blog prompt is open! Inspired by the TedTalk on CourseLink, I’ve decided to focus this post on one of my past experiences (that has to do with birds, of course).
Last Christmas, my family and I decided to take our family vacation down to Merida, Mexico. While places like Cancun and Tulum are better known, Merida turned out to be a treasure grove of culture, history and nature. Our second day there we went on a bike tour with a local guide. One thing I noticed throughout the ride was that no matter what, wherever we went, we could hear birds all around us in the trees. This was a small aspect I grew to love about the city; the fact that no matter where we went, it felt like we were still surrounded by a small portion of nature.
Whenever my family goes on a trip, we have two main objectives in mind: eat good food and see some wildlife! Merida was no exception. Waking up bright and early at 3AM, we set off to a little town by the sea where we’d embark on an adventure to see wild flamingos. Binoculars in hand and high hopes in our hearts, we ventured off in kayaks with our guide, Isaac, to lead us. He was admirably knowledgeable about the mangrove we were in as well as the number of birds we saw. Pelicans, egrets, vultures, herons and more. Isaac led us out to an open lake just as the sun was rising. It was a sight that I’ll never forget; calm glossy water, a gentle yellow-ish hue, and the lights reflecting off of the lake. As the cherry on top, just above in the skies, was a large group of flamingos flying above.
Video of flamingos flying above - Kong, 2023
My family and I were already ecstatic to have just seen them flying above. Isaac, however (being the angel he was), took us to a more secluded area. The scene in front of us is another memory that I hold dearly; a mix of birds, including flamingos, just living life as they walked around in the water.
Picture of flamingos and other birds taken through binoculars - Kong, 2023
Through this course, we’ve learned many things about nature interpretation. Particularly, the ones I’d like to link back to this is the topic of privilege and the gift of beauty. For one, I was privileged to be able to go to Mexico and experience what I did. Standing there in silence just watching the birds, allowed me to fully acknowledge the gift of beauty, even though at the time I didn’t know what it was. Isaac was the one who gave me that gift; I realized that just like us, this is the flamingos world as well. The TedTalk reminded me of how important it is to raise awareness through all species; birds included. Raising awareness and involving the community through citizen science apps provides a boost towards conservation efforts by scientists. As I’ve said in my previous posts, especially with climate change on the rise, preserving and conserving the world is more important than ever. It is so, so important to keep the natural beauty of our world.
Unit 04 - Through the Eyes of My Mother's Paintings
I was very excited for this unit since I’ve grown up with art all around me, as my mother is a very talented painter – our walls are covered from ceiling to floor with colourful canvases.
“The gift of beauty” refers to the idea that “Interpretation should instill in people the ability, and the desire, to sense the beauty in their surroundings – to provide spiritual uplift and to encourage resource preservation” (Beck et al., 2018, p. 85). I can interpret this idea through using my mother’s artwork as examples. While her work has evolved greatly over the years, 3 thematic trends are of interest: her zoomed-in renderings of nature (1), her depiction of garbage/pollution (2), and her more expressive and emotional landscapes (3).
Much like interpreters aim to point out patterns in nature with the goal of simplifying our complex/chaotic world, the paintings labelled as (1) take a magnifying glass to our environment, drawing attention to individual flower petals, leaves, and most notably grass (Beck et al., 2018, p. 90). These small details, such as the array of colours and textures that can be found in a simple patch of grass – are often overlooked and taken for granted, especially when compared to larger more “obvious” examples of beauty in our landscapes, like a mountain range or vibrant sunset. Nature is interpreted through these paintings by drawing attention to the beauty that can be found in the microscopic patterns lying just under our feet, all we have to do is take a closer look.
The paintings labelled as (2) are part of a larger series where my mom depicted images of garbage and pollution that she encountered around her. They plainly depict piles of metal waste, plastic bags, and crushed water bottles – with nothing else visible in these scenes. Interpreters often use tangible elements of a landscape to help audience members create links with the personal intangible meanings they associate with these elements (Beck et al., 2018, p. 88). By presenting the tangible element of piles of garbage taking up an entire canvas, the viewer is confronted by intangible feelings of discomfort, disgust, and claustrophobia. Even though nothing is said, nothing has to be for the viewer to understand the message and symbolism – this is what humanity leaves behind. Similarly, the paintings labelled (3) are extremely emotional but deliver this through abstract methods using colour, texture, and depth. The subject is intentionally blurry, unfocused, or so vague that it’s barely identifiable. A single artwork could be seen as a forest, a mountain range, a winding river, or rushing ocean waves – purely depending on who’s looking at it! The interpretation here is completely left up to the viewer, whatever you think you see or feel – is completely correct, because these paintings aren’t trying to be anything other than a reflection of the viewers own perspective. The full spirit of a place can be said to emerge from making connections between tangible and intangible things, and these abstract paintings aim to depict just that, the ever-changing, impossible to define, emotional spirit of our world (Beck et al., 2018, p. 88).
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Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage: For a Better World. Sagamore Publishing LLC. https://sagamore.vitalsource.com/books/9781571678669
Hi Sophie! Your mothers paintings are beautiful, she’s a very skilled artist! What especially struck me was her portrayals of garbage and pollution compared to the various paintings of nature and landscapes. At first glance, there is one thing I first noticed; the paintings of nature portray a much more vibrant color palette when compared to the illustrations of pollutants. They hold a much more neutral, dull coloration, with objects that we would consider garbage like plastic bottles. As you said in your post, it instills a sense of disgust– and personally, disappointment– to see what has happened to the world due to humanities actions. It reminds me of when I was standing at a bus stop and looking around. Right next to me, was a small hill that was covered in shrubbery. From afar it seemed like a small moment of beauty one could appreciate; but on closer inspection, the ground was littered with pieces of plastic in various sizes, coke cans and cigarette buds hidden by the grass. Compared to when looking at her paintings of nature and landscapes, my heart lightened and I found myself admiring the beauty she managed to capture– especially with the close up of the pink flower.
While environmental issues such as pollution are commonly brought up throughout our education, I feel it is important to stress how important it is to take it seriously. Many people might think, “oh, it’s just a piece of paper” when tossing it out into the environment, however when it boils down to the entire community, litter accumulates and it destroys the environment around us. Your mothers paintings do a wonderful job of portraying the gift of beauty as well as conveying important messages that everyone should hear. It is important to conserve our world, and as a whole, we should begin to treat the earth better.
BLOG 4: Gift of Beauty
Beck et al. (2018) defines the ‘gift of beauty’ as how interpretation should have the power to instill the desire to sense the beauty in their surroundings. It should be more than simply seeing something as beautiful; instead acting as kindling for an inner desire to truly study and appreciate the history and beauty on a deeper level. This is where I believe nature interpretation through the various forms of arts is vital. Many people may never see Mount Everest in person or witness the Northern Stars, but through visual arts, they can still connect with those places.
This past summer I visited the Whyte Museum in Banff, Alberta. Inside was their summer exhibition of paintings that J.H.E Macdonald made back in the 1900s of Lake O’Hara. Beside them were similar paintings made in the 2000s by Robert Munn and Patty Cucman, who retraced Macdonald’s steps to find his paint sites. Through their artwork and dedication, between the two paintings we can see how much of the landscape had changed or stayed the same overtime (Whyte Museum 2024). Seeing how the sizes of glaciers changed and where trees had fallen reinforced my belief of how important awareness is in order to conserve the environment around us for future generations.
Nature is often a large source of inspiration for artists in all shapes and forms. While I’m not very talented in capturing landscapes on paper and canvases, I find joy in composing and taking pictures of the environment around me. Photography has become my artistic way of memorializing the scenes I see around me, and sharing those images is one of the many ways I interpret nature to others. One of my favorite shots is a series of pictures of Mount Rundle. The mountain stands the same as it has for years, and the stars above are the same that people many years before us may have seen as well. It offers a glimpse into the vastness of the world around us and how much history each area– urbanized or suburban– holds. Through these photographs, I hope to offer viewers a similar experience, one that will compel them to look at nature a little closer than before.
Art, no matter the medium, gives us a way to convey the ‘gift of beauty’. The past and the present can be captured to hopefully inspire future generations to seek out connections with the environment around them. Visual arts pose as both a record and a call to action. In the present year, temperatures and other indicators of climate change increase every year. The scenery around us might not be the same in 50 or 100 years, but through artistic mediums we can share the beauty and importance of preservation. Overall, I believe that the ‘gift of beauty’ holds more power than most know or acknowledge.
References
Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage: For a Better World. Sagamore Publishing LLC. https://sagamore.vitalsource.com/books/9781571678669
WhyteMuseum. (2024, June 24). J.E.H. Macdonald: The O'Hara Era - Summer 2024 Whyte Museum Exhibition in Photos. The Whyte Museum. https://www.whyte.org/post/jeh-macdonald-o-hara-summer-2024-whyte-museum-exhibition
Unit 03 Blog Post
Privilege is often viewed as a contentious topic, often conjuring up strong emotions and opinions from different groups of people. The word “privilege” and its meaning are not at all offensive—it simply refers to individuals or groups of people who have inherent advantages over other individuals or groups of people for a variety of reasons (usually socioeconomic). I think a key part of that definition is the word “inherent”. Many people, many of whom are well meaning, would likely at first try to deny that they are “privileged”—again, this comes back to the negative connotations surrounding the word. These well-meaning people would likely feel disgusted at the thought that they have somehow disadvantaged others. The reality is that many people have some sort of privilege that is awarded to them from birth. It is not something that they chose, but it is something that they must acknowledge—and doing so is the first step towards making the world a more inclusive place.
In nature interpretation, privilege is a HUGE consideration. I think it could be argued that almost all (if not all) forms of nature interpretation come from a place of privilege. Starting out basically, even being in the same vicinity of where nature interpretation is to occur takes a certain amount of privilege. Getting to a park or natural area often requires the use of a vehicle. Further to that, some areas may not be on a public transit route, and even then, there are monetary costs associated with using public transportation. The financial costs don’t stop with transportation—often there are admission costs to get into green spaces or partake in educational programs (which could open a whole other can of worms regarding funding). These financial costs would indicate that there are sufficient funds available to partake in these programs. This also brings up the point that even if prospective visitors would really like to visit a place, it just may not be feasible. One could argue that the interpreter could go to the audience—but even this brings about considerations about privilege. Where would the event occur? A school? If they do go to a school, isn’t there some inherent privilege with getting an education? Privilege is so built into our society; it is difficult to delineate exactly where it starts and stops.
Further to this, nature interpretation must also take into consideration the past experiences of the audience (rooted in privilege), and the interpreter should never make assumptions about their audience. Not everyone has access to the same resources and information. The interpreter must be sure to provide explanations “from the ground up”; that is, provide a basis of knowledge such that everyone in the audience is able to connect with the ideas, and as such have the emotional reactions, that the interpreter is aiming for. This could also be as simple as recognizing that this could be someone’s first time visiting a certain area or seeing a wild animal. You never know just how significant something could be in someone’s life, and this needs to be considered accordingly.
As interpreters, I think it is easy to fall into the trap of mundanity, but it is important to remember that to someone the experience that you are giving them could very well be life-changing and leave an impact that lasts for eternity.
Hi Quinten! Your post was very well written and thought out. I also believe that privilege is a huge consideration in nature interpretation; and an important step in going forward is to acknowledge that many have a certain set of privileges from birth.
Not everyone has access to forms of transportation, be it private or public. Public transportation can be tricky, and some people may be located in areas that don’t have transportation that frequents the area or smaller routes that don’t extend to where they need to go. Even if they do have private transportation like a car, there are a number of factors that have to be taken in; do they have the time? The gas? The money? When considering everything, there are many things that take priority over going to visit a national park, ultimately limiting mostly the middle to low class in their opportunities to experience nature.
The role of a nature interpreter entwines with privilege. They have had the chance to spend time and experience nature, to learn about the world around them in a positive light; these experiences ultimately fuel their passion to become an interpreter. However, it is of the utmost importance that simply because they’ve had their own experiences, similar ones shouldn’t be forced upon their audience. Having been touched upon in last week's post, everyone learns differently and may not have the same perspective or experiences that the interpreter has had. It’s vital to have a good basis of knowledge to be able to explain and teach a vast variety of audiences, and be aware that not everyone is the same in order to be a good interpreter.
In the long run, privilege is a concept that we as a group should continue to reflect on and accept. We also have to acknowledge that not everyone has had the same privileges as us; meaning we have a responsibility to listen, learn, and support efforts towards inclusion.
BLOG 3: Privlige
Arrowhead Provincial Park
Coming from a middle class family as a Chinese-Canadian, from a young age my parents instilled in me that everything I had and was able to do was built on a basis of privilege. If my mom hadn’t taken on the role as a stay-at-home mom during my childhood, it is very possible that I would have never been exposed to nature as much as I was. Being able to go to dance class, to go to summer camp, to have meals every day and having the ability to explore nature were all privileges I had when I was younger. Nearly all of my “wants” were accommodated in some way, shape or form (within reason of course).
Privilege in my mind would be defined as the opportunities or advantages an individual may have based on their gender, socioeconomic class, race, and more, such as the ability to fulfill your personal “wants” – “wants” being defined as something that isn’t necessary in order to live like water or housing. It can boil down to even the smallest things; from being able to buy a piece of candy from the convenience store to going on vacation with your family.
When it comes to the definition of privilege in nature interpretation, it is seen as the ability, opportunities, and the access to be able to visit and experience places such as national parks. While we are surrounded by nature, in urbanized environments it is hard to appreciate the full beauty of whatever is around us from just a few trees. Many are never offered the opportunity to explore the natural world. This may be due to financial restrictions, time constraints, or lack of reliable transportation. In turn, the lack of experience may turn into a fear of the outdoors rather than a deeper curiosity. Canada is a beautiful place with many areas to explore, but as much as we might want to share it with others, it’s important to recognize that not everyone has had the same experiences as you or I might’ve had. Being able to speak English is already a major advantage that we have. Tourists from other countries may not be as fluent, and may struggle with finding their way around using maps or communicating with park staff. Those with physical disabilities might find it more difficult to navigate the natural environment, which vastly limits their opportunities. In my last post, I described how I believed that an interpreter should be able to improvise and adapt; everyone should be offered an equal opportunity to discover nature and enjoy the outdoors.
This past summer, I along with a few of my friends booked a cabin up north by a lake. One of my friends had never swam or canoed before, and he was adamant that he was going to stay out of the water as it was something he was never able to experience as a kid. But with some gentle coaxing and reassurance, we were able to get him out on the water; and by the end of the day, he was asking if we could go canoeing again the next day. Reflecting on this memory, this was a pivotal moment where I realized how lucky and privileged I was to have experienced these things out in nature before, and I was all the more happy that I was in a place where I could share it with a friend.
To conclude, privilege is something many of us have, but also something many of us do not have. Many do not have the opportunity to learn about the world and history around us, and recognizing this is an important step forward in working towards making “privilege” in nature interpretation more accessible for everyone, no matter their race, gender, or socioeconomic class.
EDIT: Added title
Unit 2: My ideal role of environmental interpreter
My ideal role of an environmental interpreter is one where I can be hands-on in an outdoor setting. As a visual learner, I resonate most with settings where I can be face to face with my audience. Specifically, working in a national or provincial park that has a lot of history is an idea that excites me. As someone who likes to look at the bigger picture and think about the history and process of my environment, being face to face with my audience and getting to point out things in real time is what will captivate the audience.
This ideal role might entail leading guided nature walks where we take stops to point out certain tangible features and discuss their intangible meanings like how and why the landscape looks like this as discussed in this week's readings. For example, stopping at a fallen tree and discussing how this could have happened, the implications of the fallen tree and its importance in the ecosystem. Another activity my ideal role would have is leading workshops such as plant identification or arts and crafts like natural plant dying, flower pressing or collage making! These activities promote interacting with nature on a deeper level than just a guided walk. As discussed in the readings, many people tend to remember what they do and less of what they see, read or hear. So, by getting hands on and engaging with nature, I would hopefully be able to connect with my audience in a meaningful and memorable way.
Having worked with kids in the past as an ice skating coach, I love the idea of sharing my passions and interests with the younger generation. Opening their eyes to the world around them and helping them build skills and confidence that they can carry with them throughout their life is something I find so rewarding. I find kids have a sort of filter-free curiosity when it comes to learning and getting hands-on. This childlike wonder is exciting and having the right type of skills to honor their curiosity is so important to be a successful nature interpreter!
Working in an outdoor setting entails being adaptable and creative, two things I believe I succeed at. When you’re outside, things don’t always go as planned, you don’t have full control of the environment, the weather or other people that may also be in the park. Understanding these things and being prepared to adapt to any situation makes for an interpretive walk that the audience will enjoy. Furthermore, it’s important to be compatible with all types of learning styles. Remembering to cater towards auditory, visual and tactile learners, as we discussed in this unit, is important to make sure everyone in the audience is accommodated equally!
Overall, working as a nature interpreter requires a plethora of skills to engage your audience and accommodate all learning styles. With passion and patience, interpretation can be for everyone.
Hi Julianne! Reading through your post, I noticed we have a lot of things in common; while I’m mostly a tactile learner, I’m also a visual learner! Being able to connect with your audience through more than just lectures and discussions I feel is vital in order to grow a deeper connection with them. Before I entered university, I also worked with kids as a dance teacher. Up until a certain age, they certainly do have a filter-free manner of speech that can be rather refreshing and albeit amusing. Their curiosity is endless, and they’re almost always open to learning something new.
I was privileged enough to go to Greece with my family. During our stay there, we learned a lot about the history there. How they lived, their traditions, and even got to see some historic landmarks. Although those times were long ago, being able to peek in the past like that was definitely an enlightening experience. I believe that within Canada and its national parks, there is plenty of history stored within these lands that needs to be carried throughout the future generations. Workshops and guided nature walks would be a great way to educate and spread awareness of how important the environment is, and allow those that attend to fully appreciate nature.
It is definitely important for an interpreter to be able to adapt and to be creative. Mother nature is unpredictable and sometimes not the nicest, but it’s important to be able to make the most out of whatever situation you’re in! I also mentioned in my post how important it is to be able to include everyone, as not everyone's the same and we all have different learning styles.
It was nice to see another person's perspective on the topic! Looking forward to your future posts. :)
