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Disclaimer
This blog was created for Calli Borutski (ENVS3000), 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.
Unit 10: Nature Interpretation's Role in Environmental Sustainability
Throughout this course, we have touched on many things such as privilege, accessibility, learning types and more. All these things have helped me grow as a nature interpreter in so many ways. As a daughter of immigrants, I grew up in a household where my parents worked their very best to provide me with a better life than they had. I am very fortunate to have grown up in a country where I could go on hikes, learn about nature in school and watch birds and animals in my backyard. I had the opportunity to turn on a television, watch the Discovery Channel, and see and learn about amazing animals and wonderful ecosystems all around the world. I was able to go to places like the ROM and other museums that showcased dinosaur bones or paintings of wild landscapes that had me immersed. I distinctly remember a school trip in which we went to a high school known for its performing arts and watched a dramatic play about Shakespeare, a midsummer night's dream and many scenes took place in a forest.
Art in this way shaped my understanding of nature interpretation at a very young age. Now, after taking this course, I learned that art can help others connect to nature too, as it can help them relive memories of them in the wild through dance or song, or learn about nature through visual and performing arts (Chapter 10: Arts in Interpretation, pg. 229). My tour guides during my summers in Madagascar would use storytelling as a way to explain the things we saw and in a way, that is how I first learned to appreciate nature beyond just observation. Storytelling made the environment come alive, it gave animals' personalities, landscapes their own histories, and ecosystems a sense of interconnectedness. They would often share their own experience and interactions that they had and it would leave me feeling excited to go back out into the forest every single day, no matter how tired I was. One story in particular struck a chord with me. The story tells of a king who drowned himself in a lake to avoid capture by his enemies. This act made the lake sacred, and as a result, hunting crocodiles there became strictly forbidden. Today, the once-endangered Nile crocodile population has rebounded, along with native turtles and fish, all thriving under the lake's protected status.
Picture taken of a baby Nile Crocodile in Lake Ravolobe as my tour guide told me the story of why this lake is Sacred.
Experiences such as these have shaped my ethics as a nature interpreter. I believe that nature interpretation is not just about facts and figures but about fostering an emotional and personal connection to the natural world. My experiences as a child have shaped my perception and love for nature and now as I have learned ways to help others too connect to nature, my ethics and beliefs revolve strongly around accessibility and privilege. Somehow we have turned nature into a commodity, and many people around the world cannot access it. Whether through scientific communication that bars people due to education or through the assimilation of various Indigenous cultures, we have forced the disconnection of nature onto many, many people. As a nature interpreter, I believe it is my responsibility to break down these barriers and create opportunities for people to reconnect with the natural world. Nature is not something to be owned, bought, or restricted to those with the means to experience it. It is a shared resource, a fundamental part of human existence, and something that everyone should have the opportunity to engage with, regardless of their background, education, or socioeconomic status.
One of the biggest challenges we face is the way nature has been framed within academic and institutional spaces. Scientific language, while valuable, can often alienate those without formal education in the field (Unit 5: Nature Interpretation Through Science. By simplifying concepts, using storytelling, and incorporating diverse cultural perspectives, we can make nature interpretation more inclusive and engaging. Creative writing has always been a passion of mine and since coming to the University of Guelph, I have found it to be a powerful tool to connect science and academics to the public. I am currently immersed in op-ed writers such as Naomi Klime or authors such as Dr. Kerrian McGoogan who are using their skills in writing to interpret to a much, much broader audience than academia could ever reach.
Dr. Kerriann McGoogan's book, Chasing Lemurs is one of my favourite creative non fiction books and is a very important one due to the biodiversity crisis Madagascar is currently facing.
Through their writing, they make pressing issues relatable, accessible, and urgent, ensuring that knowledge is not reserved for the few but shared with the many. This approach is most suitable for me as I find reading about others' experiences with nature often helps me connect to them as well. Writing the script for my podcast also helped me realize my love for writing can be a powerful tool and a bridge between people and the natural world. Through storytelling, I can make complex environmental issues more accessible, weaving together personal experiences, scientific insights, and cultural narratives to create a deeper sense of connection. Moving forward, I plan to integrate writing into my work as a nature interpreter, using it as a tool to reach those who might not otherwise engage with environmental topics. Whether through personal essays, advocacy pieces, or podcast storytelling, I want my words to not only inform but also evoke emotion, spark curiosity, and inspire change.
Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage : for a better world. Sagamore Venture.
Hello,
Your reflection is quite beautiful, you capture the meaning of the role of an interpreter as someone who is more than just stating facts, but fostering a community and connections to the world around us. Your experiences in Madagascar are so powerful and engaging, and I am sure were even more powerful to be a part of.
I appreciate your discussion on accessibility and privilege of nature interpretation. It is important that these gaps are given bridges, especially in relation to scientific language barriers. I never thought about this, or the thought of institutional barriers, and how they could alienate people. This is definitely something that needs to be discussed more than it is. Your passion and creative writing is bridging these gaps; your work is more than capable of reaching a broader audience than most.
Nature belongs to everyone, and I believe this is a value that you directly align with. It is exciting to see so many like minded people, such as yourself, plan to integrate such powerful writing into their role as interpreters. It is amazing that you are able to weave all of your experiences and values into your writing and inspire others to see the world as something new.
I am wishing you all the best in your journey as a nature interpreter. I hope you are able to experience the world even greater than what you have already. Great blog posts over the semester!
Calli
My Personal Ethic as a Nature Interpreter
My connection to nature comes from the small, quiet, moments in my everyday life. The warmth of a summer breeze after a long, tiring day, or the cheerful chirping of birds outside my window in the morning—these simple experiences make me feel alive, and nature has always been embedded in those fleeting, trivial moments.
As I’ve said before, my role in nature interpretation extends beyond simply sharing information. Nature interpretation is about promoting connections between people and the environment, encouraging sustainable action, and ensuring that diverse audiences feel included in these experiences. My beliefs, responsibilities, and approaches as an interpreter are shaped by my values and the guiding principles outlined in our textbook, which emphasizes the importance of paying attention to learning styles and finding ways to incorporate these for diverse audiences (Beck et al., 2018).
My Beliefs as an Interpreter
One of my foundational beliefs is that nature interpretation should be immersive, engaging, and deeply meaningful. I believe that authentic experiences in nature have the power to inspire awe and a sense of responsibility. As stated by Beck et al. (2018), "experiences of awe occur precisely in the authentic settings where interpreters work.” This highlights the importance of ensuring that interpretive efforts remain grounded in real, tangible connections to the environment.
Additionally, I believe that interpretation should be accessible and inclusive. Taking diversity into account is crucial for success, as different cultures, abilities, and perspectives shape how people relate to nature (Beck et al., 2018). Thus, as an interpreter, I must acknowledge these differences to create meaningful experiences for all visitors.
Finally, I believe that interpretation is a lifelong learning process, and visitors should have opportunities to continuously engage with nature over time. The concept of "lifetime learning curricula" from our textbook reinforces that interpretive sites should aim to be repeat destinations, encouraging people to return and deepen their understanding (Beck et al., 2018). It should be a place that one never forgets, and the interpreter in charge is the most important aspect in attaining this goal.
My Responsibilities in Interpretation
Nature interpreters have a set of important responsibilities that shape their work, and in this section, I will outline the key duties that I believe are essential in guiding my development as an interpreter. First, helping the audience build lasting connections through authenticity is crucial in ensuring the success of an interpretive program. Authenticity is the defining aspect of any interpretive site, whether leading a guided hike, or designing an exhibit, an interpreter must ensure that my presentations remain true to the ecological, historical, and cultural integrity of a place (Beck et al., 2018). Authentic experiences cultivate trust and allow visitors to gain genuine connections with nature (Beck et al., 2018).
Second, I believe as an interpreter, we have a large responsibility to encourage public advocacy (Beck et al., 2018). Sharing the work of conservation groups, highlighting pressing environmental issues, and inspiring visitors to take action, is essential. This could involve promoting citizen science projects, encouraging ethical wildlife interactions, or discussing ways to support local conservation efforts. Ultimately, interpretation is the foundation for developing deep connections with nature, and once this is accomplished, public advocacy is the next most important thing to encourage citizen engagement and inspire real change regarding environmental conservation and sustainability efforts.
Lastly, something that I strongly believe in is education through interpretation. As Beck et al. (2018) mentions, the next generation's involvement with nature doesn’t begin in adulthood, but rather during early-to-middle childhood. This means as an interpreter, my responsibility includes creating engaging, age-appropriate programs that inspire young learners to appreciate nature. By integrating hands-on experiences, storytelling, and interactive activities, I can ensure that children build positive relationships with the environment from a young age. This early connection fosters a lifelong appreciation for nature, encouraging future generations to become informed advocates and responsible stewards of the environment.
My Personal Approach to Interpretation
While there are many ways to approach interpretation, I find that certain strategies align best with my strengths and personal style. First, appealing to emotion is one of the most effective ways to inspire environmental stewardship (Beck et al., 2018). Rather than overwhelming audiences with facts and figures, I would aim to craft compelling stories that evoke curiosity and empathy. For example, sharing the life story of a migratory bird—its long journey, the threats it faces, and the importance of conservation efforts—can be more impactful than simply stating population statistics. Personally, I find this type of engagement is most effective in encouraging people to reflect upon their own roles in nature, ultimately driving and inspiring tangible change.
Next, community engagement is something that I think is very important, for the benefit of the agency, the resource, and the online community itself (Beck et al., 2018). As an interpreter, I would hope to create programs that allow for direct community participation, such as habitat restoration projects, local nature walks, and citizen science initiatives. By engaging people in hands-on conservation, I can foster a deeper sense of ownership and responsibility for the environment.
Lastly, an interpreter should understand that not all visitors engage with nature in the same way—some may prefer quiet reflection, while others enjoy interactive, fast-paced experiences. Thus, my approach in interpretation would be adaptive, incorporating varied techniques to ensure accessibility and inclusion. As I mentioned, individuals have different styles of learning, and it is important to create programs that encourage inclusion and have the possibility to reach diverse, multi-generational audiences (Beck et al., 2018). Providing multilingual resources, tactile learning experiences, and alternative presentation methods for different learning styles will be key to making interpretation more effective for different audiences. Interpretation is about inspiring curiosity, engagement, and action—and by creating programs that welcome and resonate with all visitors, we can help cultivate a more environmentally conscious and connected society.
Closing Notes
Developing my personal ethic as a nature interpreter means embracing authenticity, inclusivity, and emotional engagement. As I continue to grow in this field, I will remain committed to creating meaningful connections between people and the natural world, fostering environmental stewardship in both formal and informal settings.
With this, I end this blog—a process that truly has deepened my understanding of nature interpretation and my role within it. Though this may be my final post, my commitment to lifelong learning and sharing the wonders of the natural world will continue. I hope that through these posts, myself and others have inspired each other to seek our own connections with nature, to embrace curiosity, and to advocate for the landscapes and ecosystems that sustain us all.
To close, I leave you with a picture of my dog heavily side-eyeing a mischievous squirrel in my backyard—to remind you that even in the smallest, quietest, everyday moments, there is curiosity and connection to nature waiting to be noticed.
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
Hello,
To start, I really like how we both posted pictures of our dogs, it made me laugh when I finished reading your post.
You have beautifully reflected on what it takes to be a nature interpreter and what it means for you. It seems that we have very similar thoughts as well. I appreciate that you believe nature interpretation is a lifelong learning process. This is something a lot of us forget, we assume we can only learn so much. That however is far from the truth, our minds are always capable of growing and creating new connections.
I resonate with your thoughts on public advocacy and education. My favourite David Attenborough quote is, "If children don't grow up knowing about nature and appreciating it, they will not understand it, and they don't understand it, they won't protect it.... and if they don't protect it, who will?" This quote is posted on my classroom wall as I feel it is my duty, as a person passionate in science, to teach others about the amazing world we live in.
Moreover, your adaptability is commendable. It is a great strength to recognize that each and every person connects to nature in different ways, which can be dependent on their culture, experiences, and technology. By implementing these values into your story telling, along with your ability to ensure you are being empathetic, really makes the experience feel more personal.
Thank you for reminding us that nature is always present, even in the smallest of moments. Your passion is evident, and I wish you all the best in your lifelong process of becoming a nature interpreter.
Calli
Final Blog Post
Nature interpretation has changed quite a bit as I was able to experience new opportunities. Actually, it has changed quite drastically over the course of this class. Before starting this class, I understood nature interpretation as those who possess a wide range of knowledge of this topic. However, this class has allowed me to realize that it is more than just sharing my knowledge, but inspiring others, respecting nature, and understanding nature as more of an art than a science. I took some time through this week to really understand who I am as an interpreter. I would say that my personal beliefs and morals and responsibilities, shape the way that I interpret and share my knowledge of nature.
As I mentioned before, growing up in a small town near Thunder Bay forced me to love nature. I spent and still do spend a lot of time outdoors; whether it’s hiking, swimming, snowshoeing, or ice fishing, you can always expect me to be outside doing something. This has led me to my first thought. Nature is not only something I observe, like enjoying the view from a hike, but rather something I interact with. For me, this looks like stepping over the pink-lady slipper in the trail to allow it to grow, climbing the tree to get a better view of the bird, keeping my distance from the black bear just over the hill in front of me.
I now understand nature interpretation as more than just someone who delivers facts and is passionate about nature, but more as a means of storytelling and allowing nature to be accessible to all. As I mentioned in my previous post, not everyone interprets nature the same way, nor does everyone have the same experiences. So, while I am teaching my courses, I think of ways to incorporate nature into our learning, while making sure it is accessible and inclusive to everyone. Rodenburg discusses the fact that due to liability concerns, it has become quite difficult to allow students to experience the outdoors (Rodenburg, 2019). Which, ultimately, is true. However, coming from a small town surrounded by nature, and teaching in said community, nature is very accessible to us. In fact, just the other day my grade 10 science class took a walk through the trail just outside of our front doors. Which leads me to my next point that I thought about a pit more after reading one of the required readings, those of us living in more rural areas possess a wider range of sounds (Gray et al, 2001).
This range of sounds is not only seen in those living in different areas, but also their age I found. As my class was going for a walk on the trail, we were accompanied by the Outdoor Education Class. This class is taught by someone who took Outdoor Recreation in post-secondary. As we were walking, I pointed out the sound of the distant chickadees. The kids tried to listen, but they said all they could hear was the highway nearby and the sound of their boots crunching in the snow. The other teacher paused and said that he could hear the waves crashing on the shore of the beach about 2 kilometers away from us. I was unable to hear the waves until we got about another kilometer closer. Sure enough, the waves were crashing upon the shore. This just goes to show how different experiences and means of learning increase our ability to hear the true sound of nature (Gray et al, 2001).
Overall, I believe that nature is more than just how we as humans can use it, but about its intricate network within the thriving ecosystems. It’s about respecting mother nature and the amazing creations this world has. This belief in particular drives my understanding of nature interpretation, conservation.
Keeping all of this in mind, there are a few roles I keep in mind as a nature interpreter and someone who teaches high school students. The first responsibility is encouraging everyone to have a connection with nature, whatever this may mean for you. I believe it is important to have this connection, whether it is directly through nature, a love for science, or any means of personal experiences. Moreover, it is super important that we inspire those to take action. I hope through my teachings, I am inspiring those to care and take responsibility for our environment. Recently, I purchased a Food Cycler composter. It burns the food waste into a fertilizer that can be used in soil. When I had purchased this, my dad was very against using it; however, now that he can see what it does and how much food waste is staying out of our garbage, he really makes sure he is putting his scraps into the bin. This directly ties into my teaching about respecting nature; speaking for the environment as a whole. Lastly, I believe it is important to keep up to date with new findings and studies. While I do not believe it is healthy to get roped into it too much, I do believe that we should stay up to date with crucial information, regardless of whether it is traditional or scientific research.
Through the course of the past couple years, I have really found myself to grow as a nature interpreter. There are ways that I find to help myself as a learner, but also my students as well. As I mentioned, everyone interprets nature differently, which means everyone learns differently. For myself and my students, I find that having a hand-on-experience is really the best means of learning about nature. For example, when we go outside and listen to the birds, the students are really able to decipher between each call, versus sitting in a classroom and listening to the videos of them. Recently, I began to have a love for photography. This has allowed me to blend my love for science with art, thus enhancing my storytelling through visual metaphors.
My overall journey as a nature interpreter will forever be evoliving. As I grow as an interpreter, I wish to find different ways to grow my connection with people and nature. By recently blending my passion for science and art, I believe I am capable of sparking new interests and inspiring the young minds around me. With this being my final blog post, I would like to thank everyone who took the time to read my posts; I hope you were inspired in the way you all inspired me. Keep growing <3.
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
Rodenburg, J. (2019). Why environmental educators shouldn’t give up hope. Why Environmental Educators Shouldn’t Give Up Hope. https://clearingmagazine.org/archives/14300
Unit 9
Considering this week’s blog prompt is to share our most amazing thing we know about nature, I have a few interesting things I’d like to talk about! As I have spoken about it before, it is no secret that I am fascinated by the ocean. For its vastness, but also its ability to sustain life in ways we are only beginning to understand.
My first amazing nature fact is that phytoplankton (the microscopic plants floating near the surface of the ocean) generate at least half of Earth’s oxygen! Every second breath we take is made possible by these tiny, unassuming organisms. Despite their size, they are the backbone of the marine food web, fuelling everything from the smallest zoo plankton to the blue whale.
My next wonder of nature is the scientific concept of bioluminescence, a natural wonder so breathtaking it looks like magic. Some organisms, like the firefly squid or deep-sea anglerfish, produce their own light in the darkness of the ocean’s depths. Others, like certain types of algae, glow in response to movement, creating a shimmering blue-green trail when waves break or a body moves through the water. I have never seen it myself, but to witness it firsthand would be an otherworldly experience.
Another fascinating mystery of the ocean lies in its depths. The hadal zone, named after Hades (the Greek god of the underworld), is a region of perpetual darkness, extreme pressure and freezing temperatures. Yet life thrives even here. Strange creatures like the ghostly dumbo octopus or the transparent sea cucumber navigate these waters, proving that life is adaptable even in the most extreme conditions. We know more about the surface of the moon than we do about the bottom of the ocean, and that thought alone fills me with curiosity about what else might be lurking in the abyss.
Lastly, an aspect of the ocean that I find the most incredible is language. Whales, dolphins and even fish communicate in ways that we are only beginning to understand. Humpback whales sing songs that can travel for miles, while dolphins use complex clicks and whistles to communicate with one another. Some fish even use colour changes and body movements to send signals. This underwater symphony is a constant conversation, one that reveals that ocean as not just a body of water, but a living, breathing entity.
Beyond its mesmerizing beauty, the ocean is the great regulator of life on Earth. It absorbs carbon dioxide, influences weather patterns and regulates temperatures. Without the ocean’s careful balance, life as we know it would not exist. We often think of the ocean as distant, separate from our daily lives. But the reality is, it touches everything, from the air we breathe to the climate we depend on. It is the great connector of life on Earth, yet it remains one of the least explored frontiers. To me, that is what makes it so amazing.
References
Admin. (2024, September 23). Curious colourations: Bioluminescence, fluorescence and iridescence. Perry Institute for Marine Science. https://www.perryinstitute.org/curious-colourations-bioluminescence-fluorescence-and-iridescence/
Hello,
This is a very informative blog post, and I really enjoyed all of the amazing facts you discussed.
The ocean is an amazing ecosystem, and while I do not really get to sea it often, pun intended, I am always amazed by it. The creatures of the oceans are quite magnificent. Like you mentioned, their ability to produce light in the depths of the ocean, or even the chromatophores on the cephalopods.
Our ocean is so undiscovered, and I believe that is what makes it so beautiful. The way the species interact with one another, predator or prey, it is all truly fascinating. From the vibrant colours, to like you said, the communication between fish and aquatic mammal species. While we have so much to learn from this intricate ecosystem, a part of me hopes it remains untouched and unbothered.
This prompt was definitely one of my favourites, as I enjoy learning about everyone and what fascinated them about our world. I believe this topic is not discussed enough. Unlike us, who have chosen to take this course out of curiosity, and our enjoyment of this magnificent world, some people do not have the opportunity to reflect on these types of things.
While I appreciate your amazement for the ocean, I was wondering where this started from. Moreover, I was wondering if you felt the same way about other bodies of water, or perhaps what you know about them?
I hope you continue to find enjoyment in the ocean, and find even more passion in this amazing ecosystem!
Unit 9: Sense-Making of Nature Interpretation
Nature is more than just the towering trees, the cascading waterfalls, and the vibrant birds. It’s about the way nature makes me feel, you feel, and how those experiences are so vastly different. So, to me the most amazing thing about nature is that we all interpret nature in our own way. While we may all see the same landscape or hear the same sound, we all interpret it in a different way.
For some, nature is quiet and peaceful. It’s the sound of water trickling down the mountain side, the rays shining through the canopy giving the Pink Lady Slipper an elegant glow. For others, nature is loud, an explosion of life if you will. It’s the rush you feel when you’re 3000 meters up in the mountains, the stillness of the lynx that is in your path, or the blooming cherry blossoms showing their pink and red hues.
For scientists, they might see nature as a network of fungal connections. Every step they take, they might feel the pulse from the mycelium below. They look at the wilted shrubs and wonder what is causing this disruption. For an artist, they might see the movement of the branches, or hear the noises harmonizing with one another to produce a soft melody.
I would like to use this past weekend as an example. My friends and I were invited to go out ice climbing, something that was new to each of us. For the friends of mine that enjoy that adrenaline rush, they looked at the towering frozen falls and were eager to get started. They began climbing and climbing, they did not let their exhaustion reach them until they made it to the very top. Whereas others were a bit lenient to try, they were more so focused on admiring the falls itself, and looking at the patterns the ice has created. Those that were highly skilled in this area kept looking for other ways to challenge themselves. This is a perfect example of how everyone interprets nature differently. What may look like beautiful scenery to one, may be a challenge for another. Each and everyone of us has a different perspective on life and nature itself.
Now, this interpretation is not always the same for the rest of our lives. As we grow like the rhizomes and rhizoids below, we create new connections. The trail in my hometown that was once the forest playground, is now a means of releasing stress and feeling peace. The lake that was once full of mermaids and sea creatures is now a place to take my dog for a swim, allowing her to get some low impact exercise. Interpretation is dependent on our experiences and cultures (Knudson, 2018). While a wolf may be spirit to one, it could be a predator to another.
The most beautiful part of this prompt is that there is no wrong answer. There are so many beautiful ways to interpret nature; no matter your interpretation, your thoughts are valid. As you venture through nature, reflect on how you feel in that very moment. If you are with a friend, discuss the differences between your interpretations.
Here are a few pictures of us ice climbing this past weekend. I hope you get out and explore the amazing world we have!
Knudson, L.B.T.T.C.D. M. (2018). Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage: For a Better World. Sagamore Publishing LLC.
Unit 7
I believe that music and nature have always been intertwined. As someone who has spent a fair share of time in the outdoors, I have often found myself noticing how much the sounds of nature around me (like the wind in the trees or the flow of water) feel like their own kind of music. I think that nature in itself is full of rhythm and harmony. I have always thought that when we take the time to stop and listen, nature shows us a song that has been there all along. Often times we are just too busy, stressed and preoccupied by life to hear.
The sounds of nature, from birds singing to the sound of rain hitting the ground, all work together to display the collective music of the environment. Nature provides an endless amount of auditory stimuli, which many artists have drawn inspiration from. Beethoven had captured this essence in his composition "Pastoral Symphony", which mimicked the calm and peaceful feel of the countryside. More modern musicians have actually used recordings of natural auditory elements such as wind or rain and woven them into their music. Beyond mimicking natural sounds, music is a way for us to express the emotions that nature brings us. When we're in nature, it isn't just the sights that get to us, but also the feelings they stir up. One might feel reflective, or free when experiencing nature. Often times, music does the same, it can capture emotional highs and lows, giving a voice to the way that nature makes us feel.
One song that takes me back to a natural landscape is one that many of us are familiar with, "Take Me Home, Country Roads" by John Denver. This song instantly reminds me of a summer road trip that I took with my friends last year. We spent days driving through rural areas and passing mountains, it was really special. The song's gentle rhythm seemed to mirror the peaceful landscape that we were driving through.
In conclusion, it is undeniable that music and nature are connected. Sometimes we just need to take a moment to really listen.
Your response really captures the connection between nature and music. I liked how you made note of the different harmonies in the world around us, and how different composers use these sounds and rhythms in their own compositions. The busyness of lie sometimes takes away from these moments, but your mention of Beethovens Pastoral Symphony, is a great reminder for us to slow down and appreciate the natural world. Additionally, this composition is a great example of how composers utilize these noises in their pieces.
As someone who loves spending time in nature, I resonate with your description of how music can create similar feelings we possess in nature. Whenever myself and my friends go for a hike, we always listen to music. I find there are certain pieces that enhance the feeling we get when we walk in nature. Your mention of Country Roads, Take Me Home, brought back my own memory of travelling through rural landscapes with my friends. We were down in New Brunswick, celebrating my friend who had just graduated, and he was going to make his way home not too long after we left. He was showing us around the area, and this song came on. We started belting it out, and making connections, he soon would be coming back home.
Your piece really tied music and nature together. Reminding us to slow down and listen, to both music in nature and nature in music. Great response, it was very engaging!
Blog Post 7: Music in Nature
Music in nature is everywhere. The songs of the birds are always the first thing that comes to people's mind; the morning chorus, it is beautiful. I remember when I was a kid, I would open my window before I went to bed just to listen to all of the amazing bird species chirping away before venturing to find food. Everyone always complained about the “birds” waking them up. To me it was an orchestra; the song sparrows singing away to their little chicklets, the morning doves cooing, and the robins chirping away to alert off any predators. Each bird had their own piece to the harmony.
The birds are only a small piece of music. Now as I wander through the forest, I hear the swaying of the trees, the croaking of the frogs, the water trickling down the rock face; the music created from all of these elements creates peace. Each noise adds to the composition, background noises forming the patterns and rhythms. The partridge during mating season adds the beating drum to the composition. Each element of nature adds an important piece.
I never thought of those living in more rural areas being able to perceive a wider range of sounds (Gray et al, 2001). Do those living in these urban areas hear the same as I do, or does the hum of traffic drown out the elegant music made by nature? If they don’t hear nature, do they see nature the same way I do?
Nature is everywhere in music. Different composers and musicians have used the natural word as inspiration for their pieces. Calude Debussy, a French composer, creates music resembling movement in nature. His piece Nuages, is an example of this, offering the sound of the clouds rolling in, with the subtle development of a sunset (Riggle, 2020). Moreover, Olivier Messianen, both a composer and an ornithologist, created pieces with many birdsongs. In one of his pieces, Reveil des oiseax, the piano and orchestra creates sounds of more than 36 bird species (Riggle, 2020) These rhythms and natural sounds can be composed into their sound, to create a beautiful blend of music. New music still incorporates sounds throughout their pieces, such as ocean waves, rainfall, and birdsongs.
Music and nature will always be found together. Nature provides the human ear with beautiful compositions relating to all themes and feelings. Music and nature have the power to transport us into new places and emotions. As we walk through nature we feel peace, or adrenaline, chaos, similar to the way different compositions of music make us feel.
There are so many songs that take me back to the natural landscape. There is however, one that sticks out the most to me. I used to camp all of the time at a Provincial Park with my friends and family. For some reason, the song Patio Lanterns by Kim Mitchell always brings me back to this natural landscape. I remember we were hiking down to the falls, and this song was stuck in someone's head, and we all started singing it. The thuds from our feet hitting the ground created a beat, and the rushing water crashing along on the rocks made the perfect background noise.
Music is everywhere in nature, and nature is everywhere in music. Everyone has their own way of hearing it, and I think that is something beautiful on its own. Take a walk outside today, what kind of music do you hear?
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
Riggle, E. (2020, April 16). Composers on Nature. All Classical Radio. https://www.allclassical.org/composers-on-nature/
06: Storytelling through time
“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
I really love this quote from Edward Hyams. I found the association of the past with the imagery of a railway station to be quite impactful. It makes it easy to understand how past affects the present. It also made me think of the importance of being mindful of the future. You must make sure the railway station is ready for the next train, using knowledge of the arrival of the last train. I see an interpreter as the railway station worker, who is in charge of organizing the information and relaying it to the passengers. It really is a brilliant analogy that can be expanded upon in many ways.
I appreciate the mention of integrity in this quote. I think this is the key. As interpreters, we must maintain the integrity of the past. It is easy for the past to become lost or convoluted due to challenges of maintaining accuracy and authenticity (Beck, Cable and Knudson). The past can be an awkward thing to navigate, and there may be many controversies, either embedded in the history itself, or due to changing world values (Beck, Cable and Knudson). The responsibility of an interpreter is to face these controversies head-on, to be unbiased and as truthful as possible and to communicate them with their audience (Beck, Cable and Knudson).
“History serves us in many ways. It can delight and enrich us, inspire and caution us, inform and educate us, help us make thoughtful decisions, enlarge and intensify the experience of being alive.” –American Association for State and Local History (AASLH)
This quote feels like a sister quote to that by Edward Hyams. By upholding the integrity of the past, you are using it as a tool to serve in present day. Even if it feels easier to avoid a controversial or upsetting topic, it is vital to address it. By understanding past decisions and their effects, it assists us in being more thoughtful in our decision-making today. I also feel that it brings people together when they can unite over a reflection of a past event and be able to discuss their thoughts and feelings in a safe space. This also introduces the last quote that really resonated with me in the textbook: “By exposing and elevating the stories of the oppressed and the victimized, difficult histories in museums and historical sites become tools for advocacy, civility, and education” (Rose, 2016). Advocacy, civility, and education can be so transformative to so many groups, no matter their privilege or life experience. These three elements are such raw forms of human connection and can strengthen us as a group. No matter the type of interpretation, the main goal is to inform and unite your audience, with the hopes that they can leave your presentation and make the world a better place.
I think this also introduces the importance of interpretation in writing. While a live presentation can be more compelling and attention-grabbing, a written piece has the chance of outlasting generations, and surviving throughout history. While it may be easier to write about fun topics that excite people and encourage them to read, it is important to not stray from the controversial topics, as mentioned above. It is vital to maintain the same principles of a live presentation in your writing, and to find ways to keep your writing interesting and exciting, while maintaining the unbiased truth. In present-day this is both easier and more difficult. The internet is such an accessible resource, where you can easily create a blog, a post, etc., but the challenge is that it is harder to stand out amongst the oversaturation of information available at our fingertips. Despite the oversaturation, it is important to remember that the information you are trying to convey will reach its audience. We must keep striving to communicate and educate!
Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For A Better World. SAGAMORE Publishing, Sagamore Venture. Rose, J. (2016). Interpreting difficult history at museums and historic sites. New York, NY: Rowman & Littlefield.
Hello!
I really like how you connected the quote to the role of interpreters. I also agree the integrity is key to interpretation. Like you had mentioned, history can be difficult as there are so many changing opinions and views, but it is important that we remain truthful when sharing the past.
I liked your statement about history being used as a tool for education. For many, understanding these past events can help us make better decisions for our future. For most people, when you hear the word history, you often think of people; however, I often think about nature. In my blog, I touch on the fish species, the Short-nosed Cisco. This was a fish that was found throughout the Great Lakes and Lakes in Northern Ontario. However, due to overfishing and industrial pollution, the species almost became extinct. Just like how different interpreters help us understand historical events, these conservation solutions can use past knowledge to help make future decisions.
I also liked how you touched on the importance of interpretation in writing. Regardless of the type of writing, I believe that writing will end up preserving important information for future generations. Additionally, regardless of different opinions, it is important that this information keeps getting shared and brought to attention.
Unit 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).
If I am being completely honest, this quote had me stumped for a few days. I was never one who was good at understanding quotes or messages right away; it always took a bit of time to click. So, my process to understand this quote was to chunk it into pieces.
I first started with the word merit, recognition I thought and I made a little side note. I then took a look at the word integrity. Since I had just finished doing report cards, I assumed integrity to be honesty, like those learning skills that are given a letter level on a report card. However, as I continued to further break it down, I understood that integrity was used as a way of saying unity. Thus, shifting my whole understanding of the quote, this was my barrier I needed to overcome. Finally, I looked at the train metaphor. This had me stumped for a bit; I understood the quote, but I felt I did not fully grasp the meaning. I understood the part of saying that the past isn’t eventually gone forever, but it took me a bit to realize that it meant even after we have lived through something, it does not make it disappear. This then made sense of how influential our history is, like how a train station will still stand even after the train has passed through it.
In the context of nature interpretation through history, the idea of integrity is super important. Today actually, one of my students started talking to me about the short-nosed cisco, a fish native to the Great Lakes and Northern Ontario. Due to human activities, like the once normal overfishing and heavy industrial pollution, there was a decline in this species population. These ecosystem disturbances almost caused the species to go extinct. Conservation efforts are now put in place to help restore the quality of water and regulate fishing practices. This example demonstrates how past actions help drive the conservation measures used in the present day. Just like how the train station still stays after the train has passed, this story of the Short-nosed Cisco influences the measures taken for the species and other species futures.
This can also be looked at beyond nature, it can be applied to our cultural and societal norms as well. For many, actions that we make today are often driven by decisions made in the past. By forgetting the past or treating it as though it has no relevance, we are allowing continued mistakes to be made. For example, there are some very alarming similarities going on in regards to modern politics and the actions of past leaders. In this case, it is as if they are treating history as a passing train in regards to it leaving, and no longer mattering.
Overall, this quote highlights the significance of past and present events. Whether it being in regards to nature, culture, or society, we cannot ignore the past and treat it as irrelevant.
On a side note, I really liked this quote and sent it to the history teacher at the high school!
Below I have pictured a field of Fireweed that took over after a small forest fire.
Prompt 5: No prompt this week – free write on what you are thinking about!
With midterms in full swing, I’m sure everyone is feeling the weight of stress, so I decided to write about how nature can help us find relief. Back in our first blog post, I mentioned that I enjoy outdoor meditation, and that continues to be true. One of my favourite ways to destress is to walk to the Arboretum, sit on the grass, and simply observe the ecosystem thriving around me. It’s a wonderful way to recharge without staring at a phone or sitting behind a laptop. Now that it’s winter, I don’t visit as often, but on occasion, I still venture outside into the snowy scene. I love watching the snow fall, and even though I rarely see animals, it still feels like life is gently seeping through beneath the blanket of snow.
Another great way to destress using nature is by taking a hike. This is more active than meditating, but exercise is also an excellent way to reduce stress. During these hikes, you can add an extra layer of engagement by identifying the animals and plants you encounter. Two apps I highly recommend are the Merlin Bird ID app for identifying birds and the Seek by iNaturalist app for other animals and plants. I’ve linked them below! Although winter may not bring as much wildlife as summer or spring, there’s still plenty to discover if you keep your eyes open.
Bird ID Wizard—Step-by-step Answer three simple questions about a bird you are trying to identify and Merlin will give you a list of poss
It’s important to stay safe while hiking, though. Be sure to wear appropriate gear—snow boots are a must in weather like this!—stay on designated paths, avoid interacting with wild animals, and consider inviting friends to join you. Exploring nature is always more fun and safer with company.
If venturing outdoors in winter isn’t your thing, don’t worry! There are plenty of other ways to connect with nature. For example, you can watch nature videos or look at photos of natural landscapes. You can also read blogs about nature interpretation—like this one! When I’m unable to access a natural space, I love playing nature sounds. There are countless YouTube videos and Spotify playlists featuring natural soundscapes, some even mixed with calming music. I’ve linked one of my favourite playlists below! These can be especially helpful when studying or trying to focus. I also use them at night to help me sleep!
In conclusion, if you’re feeling stressed, consider tapping into the calming power of nature—whether outdoors or virtually. Good luck on your midterms, everyone!
I really enjoyed your blog post, and this was most definitely a great response to free writing! As a high school teacher, I am always looking for different tips and tricks to help my students ease their anxiety. With exams having just passed for them, one of the tips I used was also nature. I really appreciate when others are able to make this connection, and realize how beneficial of a tool nature is in regards to relaxing your mind. For a lot of my students, their grades define them. For them, they easily get caught up in this mindset, so I also encourage people to take a walk outside, at least once a day.
I love that you also made not about meditation. I thought I started using this tool only this past year, little did I know, I have been subconsciously doing it for quite some time now. I always ,oved just watching the world around me, seeing how the species interacted with one another; little did I know, this was a form of mediation. I appreciate that you made mention of how winter can be a more difficult time for people to get out. Living in northern Ontario, our January month is usually pretty cold. We were experiencing wind chills up to minus forty. It was really difficult to get outside during these times, even for my dog. One way I combatted this was sitting by the window, allowing the sun to come in, and enjoying a cup of hot chocolate while the warmth of the rays warmed up the room. While this was not the fresh air I was normally feeling, it was a good compromise.
Overall, I really enjoyed your perspective, and I really appreciate you taking the time to remind everyone of how to manage their stress.
Blog Post 5: Finding Respect in Nature
Firstly, I love free writing. I often do this when I am feeling some high intensity emotions; these emotions can range from anxiety, fear, happiness, overwhelmed, etc. Today specifically, I am going to write about respect.
As I was walking outside today, the cold, brisk air hit my exposed skin on my face. We just had a big snow storm, so the roads were not plowed quite yet, and the driveways were still full of snow. As myself and my dog, Belle, crossed the street, I noticed a young child helping their father shovel their driveway. This made me smile, as I remember doing this with my dad as well, oftentimes causing more work for him, however. As I continued walking, the sound of snow machines began to get louder. They slowed down to pass me, I gave a quick wave, and it looked like they had backed up their sleds to go ice fishing. What a beautiful day to go ice fishing, I thought. As I make my way to the trail head, I begin to look up. All of the conifer branches weighed down by the scoops of snow, and the trail buried, almost as if it were never there. I stopped for a moment, a moment to appreciate the beautiful scenery. I scan the area for owls, as sometimes you can notice them camouflaging into the birch trees.
As I stood there, I reflected. For me, nature is a quiet escape from all of the noise, and a way to reconnect with myself and nature itself. I began to notice all of the other ways people connect to nature, and how it differs from person to person. For my dad, he works outdoors. So for him, he has to make do with all of the patterns and changing forces in nature. He respects nature by working with the unpredictable changes, rather than against it. He knows that when the snow is too deep to walk on, to get his snowshoes, when the sky gives warning of a storm, he plans accordingly. For the child helping his dad shovel, he is subconsciously learning about respect through hard work. For the people going ice fishing, they respect nature in a different way from those mentioned so far. They enjoy the thrill that plundering through fresh snow gives, the adrenaline rush as they speed across the icy lakes, and the anticipation of a fish biting their hook.
In many ways aside from nature, respect can be shown. For me, I respect that I am walking through the owls' space, ensuring I am not disrupting them in any way. I am respecting the needs of exercise in my own body and my dogs’ body. For the child helping his father shovel, he is respecting the work of his dad, and building on such an important characteristic. To the people on the snowmachine, they are respecting those who are walking alongside them, ensuring they are not disrupting anyone else’s path.
Nature has a way of teaching us respect, a way that many of us do not even realize. Nature reminds us of our place in the world, and how we all have something to connect us together.
Interpretive Blog #4
Who am I to interpret nature through art? I am a witness. I am a voice that reflects what I see, feel, and experience in the world around me. In the grand scheme of existence, I am one among many who long to connect with the natural world and convey its significance through creative expression.
Art has always been one of humanity’s most profound tools for interpretation. Whether it’s the Group of Seven capturing the raw, untamed beauty of Canada’s wilderness or a single photograph taken on a foggy morning, art communicates what words alone cannot. It invites viewers to see beyond the surface, to feel the emotion embedded within the landscapes, and to reflect on their own relationship with nature.
To me, “the gift of beauty” lies in nature’s ability to evoke awe, wonder, and introspection. It’s the sunlight filtering through the leaves, the rhythm of waves crashing against the shore, or the delicate geometry of a snowflake. These moments of beauty are fleeting, yet they resonate deeply, reminding us of our place within the greater ecosystem of life.
Interpreting this beauty through art is not about creating perfection but about capturing a moment of connection. It’s about being present enough to notice the smallest details and bold enough to share them. This might take the form of a painting inspired by a vivid sunset, a poem describing the serenity of a forest, or even a simple doodle of a bird perched on a branch. It doesn’t matter if the work is polished or if the artist is “talented.” What matters is the act of sharing a perspective, opening a window for others to see the world in a new way.
As nature interpreters, we are facilitators of this connection. Our role is to highlight the stories that nature tells and make them accessible. Using art as a medium can help bridge the emotional and intellectual aspects of interpretation, reaching those who may not otherwise engage with environmental narratives. A painting, for instance, might evoke feelings of nostalgia or reverence, while the accompanying interpretation could provide ecological context or historical significance.
This approach also encourages inclusivity. Artistic expression transcends language barriers and cultural differences, creating a universal dialogue around the importance of protecting and cherishing the environment. By incorporating diverse traditions and perspectives into our interpretations, we honor the myriad ways in which humans have connected with nature throughout history.
Ultimately, interpreting the gift of beauty is about fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world. It’s about recognizing that beauty is not a luxury but a necessity—something that sustains our spirit and compels us to act. Through art, we not only celebrate the wonder of nature but also remind ourselves of our responsibility to preserve it for future generations.
So, who am I to interpret nature through art? I am a witness, a storyteller, and a steward of the beauty that surrounds us. And in sharing my perspective, I hope to inspire others to do the same.
Hello!
I really enjoyed reading your perspective on interpreting nature through art. I must say, I completely agree that interpretation isn’t about holding authority over nature but instead about making meaningful connections. Your point about art bridging the gap between human comprehension and the natural world really resonated with me, and it is something I mentioned it my post as well. As someone who loves both science and nature, I often find myself trying to understand how things work, but art offers a different kind of understanding, one that is more emotional and personal.
I also appreciated your discussion on “the gift of beauty” and how it’s not just about capturing a scene but also about revealing deeper stories and relationships. It kind of reminded me of how older paintings or photographs can show the changes in the environment or world itself over time. To me, art doesn’t just capture beauty, but it can also serve as a historical record and a call to action, highlighting how we have impacted the landscapes we admire. Take into consideration the wildfires that have happened this year.
Your mention of Dr. Kurt Hahn’s “social diseases” was an interesting connection. You're absolutely right, we must also recognize the realities of nature, particularly the dangers, the changes, and our responsibility to preserve it. Art can sometimes make nature seem perfect, but as you pointed out, it also has the power to expose the truths we might otherwise overlook.
Overall, I loved how you balanced the emotional and intellectual aspects of interpreting nature. It made me think more deeply about how art and science can work together in shaping our understanding of the world. Thanks for sharing!
Unit 4: Nature Interpretation through Art and Planning for “All” Scenarios
As someone who has grown up in a small town near Thunder Bay, I have always had a huge appreciation for nature. A new opportunity was presented to me a few months ago, I was asked to be a high school science teacher, a passionate subject I have had for so long. I love nature, understanding how it works, asking myself a million questions like, “how the heck do I live in a place like this?” Nature, for me, is something that I feel is able to bring me peace during the hectic days.
Now, while I wouldn’t call myself an artist, I still love all forms of art. From painting, to photography, to creating glass mosaics, I use it as a means to escape, a way to further connect with the world and myself. Art allows me to use a creative side of my brain, a more emotional side than a logical side. For me, I worry more so about the process than I do the result.
The question asks, who am I to interpret nature through art? While I would say we are all given this amazing ability. As discussed in Chapter 5, interpretation is all about making meaningful, personal connections with the subject at hand. ANy of those that have the ability to express their passion in some sort of creative means, have the ability to be an interpreter. Art is not only for professionals, the same way surgery is to surgeons, but instead it is a way of sharing the world as we see it. For some people, they will paint portraits with precision and depth, others dance around a stage to tell a story, and for those who are like me, find beauty in the creative process, regardless of the perfect lines or not.
For me, art is able to provide a bridge between science and emotion. I enjoy science as it helps us understand all the mechanisms working alongside nature, whereas art allows us to feel it. Art has the power to inspire others, and deepen their appreciation for the world. While I may not be an artist in a traditional sense, I love showing my creative process through a way that is meaningful to me. Since stepping into the role as a science teacher, I have realized a huge part of my job is allowing students to see the amazing world around them. In some ways, yes, science is about memorizing tedious facts, or how to label a plant cell, but in other ways, it is about asking in-depth questions, making observations, and finding wonders about the amazing world we live in.
Nature’s beauty is a gift, in both the way we see it and how it makes us feel. As I walk down to the beach on the North shore of Lake Superior, I see a beautiful sunset, but I feel warmth, peace, and relief. All of that relating to the topic of interpretation isn’t only about seeing, but also about creating an emotional connection.
All that being said, I believe our role as people is the same, to connect, observe, wonder, and appreciate. And while I may not be a traditional artist, I enjoy interpreting nature in my own way, allowing my curiosity and creativity to thrive.
Privilege & Nature Interpretation
To me, privilege is defined as the advantage that specific groups or individuals in society are granted at the expense of more marginalized groups. It can manifest itself in many forms and be based on race, nationality, gender identity, sexual orientation, able-bodiedness, socioeconomic status or other factors. Privilege affects every part of our daily life, whether we’re able to recognize its effect or not, and because of privilege individuals are granted unequal access to aspects of society. Specifically in nature interpretation, privilege is what determines a person’s ability to fully engage with and access natural spaces or natural education. Some people are able to easily participate in interpretative opportunities, but many are prevented from doing so by barriers. Beck et al., listed several examples of prominent barriers in nature interpretation such as economic, cultural and linguistic barriers (2018). In order for a nature interpreter to be accessible to all audiences, it’s absolutely important to dismantle these barriers.
Like all things, privilege plays a huge role in nature interpretation yet is often overlooked by those who have never come face to face with barriers to participating in it. I could definitely relate to the section on cultural barriers as I think history, family structure and values has a large impact on how you engage in nature interpretation. For example, when I was younger I was shocked to find out that many people see urban wildlife like squirrels or birds as invaders or annoyances because I was always taught to appreciate their presence. The background in which we grow up heavily affects the way we see nature, and many people are fearful or unfamiliar with nature simply because they were not privileged enough to have positive past experiences with it. For those of us who had the privilege of having access to natural spaces and education, it may be difficult to recognize or understand the concerns of those who haven’t, and we may play a role in creating barriers by refusing to consider people with different experiences than us.
I think one of the most impactful barriers to nature interpretation is economic. As a Zoology major, there’s always a huge emphasis on going outside to learn and taking advantage of the opportunities available to join interpretative programs. These opportunities, however, are impossible for a large number of students due to the economic barriers present. Most students would love to go on a trip to a national park or spend a summer volunteering somewhere, but it’s difficult to do so when every single chance is impeded by application fees, high transportation and accommodation costs, and more. Even if a student has the ability to pay for all of these fees, many of these programs are commitments and/or take place during summers so they directly conflict with job opportunities that many students don’t have the privilege to be able to skip out on.
It’s extremely important for anyone interested in nature interpretation to reflect on privilege, especially as we think about being interpreters ourselves. If we truly want people to connect with the natural world then it’s vital to make sure that all people regardless of who they are or where they come from can participate.
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
Very insightful post!
These barriers are such a significant obstacle for so many people, and your reflections really highlight how privilege shapes our ability to access and engage with nature interpretation. Coming from Northern Ontario, I’ve realized how much my own experience has been shaped by being so close to natural spaces and especially an area that encourages the outdoors. I didn’t think much about barriers until speaking with people from urban areas, such as when I went down south for school.
I’m especially glad you mentioned being taught to appreciate the presence of nature, I find it very fascinating to see how much our upbringing shapes our perspective of this particular topic. Growing up with access to trails, forests, or even just backyard wildlife feels very normal to some of us and we often don't think twice about it, but for many, those situations many do not get to experience due to those barriers you discussed
I never really thought about economic barriers, but your point really makes sense of that. Here, a lot of our nature programs are free, but in other places those programs may come with costs that exclude people who might benefit the most from those opportunities. It makes me wonder how we can better advocate for accessible alternatives, such as offering more free local programs or virtual experiences for those who are unable. Lots to think about!
Thank you for sharing this perspective, I truly believe that it is such an important conversation to have.
Calli
Unit 3: Risk versus Reward in Interpretation
The working definition of privilege to me means that groups and or individuals are granted a certain entitlement, these privileges usually revolve around race, level education, and financial status. Moreover, I believe that privilege has played a major role in nature interpretation without many people even realizing it.
Nature interpretation and privilege go hand-in-hand with one another, though it is often not looked at. This relationship can be seen throughout reading the blog posts. Many students were privileged to have nature-loving family and friends, where others may not have been. Additionally, many students in the class seemed to have grown up in cities, so their exposure to nature may not seem to be as great as others. I am able to understand the level of privilege I have been granted with in terms of nature. I was born in a place surrounded by nature, additionally, my family and friends were always doing something regarding nature. This has made a huge and long lasting impact on my life, as it allowed me to create a huge connection with nature. As I grow older this privilege I had as a child allows me to realize how much I took it for granted. Coming from Northern Ontario to Guelph, a lot in my life has changed. I find that I do not see as much wildlife, I hike less, and I spend less time in nature. This change has been quite hard for me, but it has made going home during the breaks that much more exciting. Not many people can say they can see a bear on the mountain while looking through their window, and I feel very fortunate that I can.
As I mentioned, as a kid I did not really understand the level of privilege I had relating to nature. Now as I reflect and look at where I came from, I can see it quite easily. In high school, an option for a course is “Outdoor Education”. Now this course can be offered in schools within cities, however for us it was easy to access nature. Local hiking trails are right outside the school's door, Lake Superior is just a two minute drive. These experiences make up the privileges I didn’t know I had until I graduated. Moreover, a few summers ago I participated in the field ecology course, BIOL 4410. Throughout discussions with other class members they mentioned that some had to travel a bit to get to their research site, but for myself it was just a step outside of my door. It was really amazing to be able to share my experiences with everyone, and begin to understand the privilege I had growing up in Northern Ontario.
Overall, I believe that nature interpretation is much determined by one’s privilege. How you grow up, who you grow up with, and your surrounding environment determine much about how you view nature, and these to me are the privileges that make it up.
Blog 2: My Ideal Environmental Interpreter Role
Tour Guide
Upon reflecting on the various possible roles as a nature interpreter I concluded that my ideal role would involve leading group hikes and educating visitors about the natural world. I envision guiding people along beautiful trails, sharing knowledge about plants, birds, animal tracks, and other ecological wonders. This aspiration stems from a visit to Algonquin Park, where I observed a guide leading such a hike. I remember thinking, This is your job? You get paid for this? It seemed like a dream come true - combining my passion for nature with a role that allows me to share it with others.
Some skills I may need for an interpreter role such as this is nature identification, extensive knowledge about the organisms that are in the park/trail I am working, and a good handle on teaching all of this information in an engaging and informative way. I’ve learned a bit about teaching styles and how to engage a group of people in Unit 2 of this Nature Interpretation class. I learned that every person has different learning styles, and I need to be able to cater to every type of learner. I can do this by catering to auditory learners by explaining things in detail, catering to visual learners by providing visual aids, and catering to tactile learners by providing them with an experience or activity that reinforced what I am teaching. Incorporating all of these strategies into a tour would ensure that each person is engaged and informed.
I personally am a visual learner. I learn best when presented with diagrams and seeing words written down. Knowing this about myself helps me to study most effectively. I rewrite important stuff, and draw diagrams or flowcharts.
What is your style of learning? How does this apply to the way you study?
Another skill necessary for this role that I am not as confident in, is public speaking. I’ve always felt anxious about talking in front of a group, but it is something I’m slowly improving on in my undergrad, being forced to do presentations in front of the class.
Blogging
Another role I’d love to explore is blogging. This would involve using a platform like Tumblr or making my own website to share information about environmental issues or my own personal experiences in nature. I have always loved writing, and thrived in high school English class. At one point in my childhood, I wanted to become an author and would write short stories. Being able to combine my passion and experience in wildlife biology and my love for writing into a career would be incredibly fulfilling.
Skills for this role would include strong writing and storytelling abilities to engage an audience effectively. Photography could also enhance the experience, as images bring stories to life. Developing this skill has always intrigued me, and I’m excited to improve my blogging skills through this class.
By focusing on these skills and experiences, I’m confident that I can carve out a meaningful and impactful role as an environmental interpreter, whether on the trails or through a digital platform.
What is your learning style? (n.d.). Active Centre of English Training. Retrieved January 14, 2025, from ACET: What is your learning style?
Hi,
Thank you for your very insightful post, I really enjoyed reading through it.
I really enjoyed how you described what an environmental interpreter is and what type of skills they need to possess. Moreover, I think it is great that you mentioned the steps that are needed to be taken and how it can be done in different ways. Interpreters are all different, but as you mentioned there are many different strategies you can use to keep the audience engaged. All that being said, I liked how you made mention about the different learning styles you may need to cater to.
I love your small bit about your job at the start, I too had a similar experience. It is great to be able to do something you love and have so much passion for, it almost doesn’t even feel like a job. Leading hikes and educating others about the importance of nature is very rewarding as it combines your love for nature, but also allows people to gain insight on the importance of nature. I liked how you mentioned that you want to do more blogging, I find a lot of people don’t realize the power of blogs.
It is great to hear that you have made progress with your public speaking skills. A lot of people find this challenging, but as they say, practice makes perfect. I see this a lot in the high school classes I teach. The more I get the students to present, the easier it becomes for them. I wish you all the best working on this skill, and don’t feel like you need to master it overnight!
My question to you is, what was it that inspired your love for nature and the education surrounding it? Do you think that your experiences, such as your visit to Algonquin Park, help shape this role?
Overall I really enjoyed reading your post, it was very insightful. I am looking forward to reading more from you!
Calli
