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This blog was created for ENVS*3000 (F24), University of Guelph.
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blog 10: final blog
As we wrap up the course, I reflect on my personal ethics as a nature interpreter. Prior to this course, I was thrilled by the idea of guiding visitors through outdoor spaces, like national or provincial parks, and creating moments of connection. Being a visual learner, I find that sharing my love for the outdoors in a hands-on way best suits me. This course has further inspired me to embrace flexibility and adaptability, which are essential when working outdoors where you most likely don’t have 100% control over any situation. Understanding that interpretation must cater towards diverse learning styles like auditory, visual and tactile learners is also important to consider to make interpretation meaningful for all participants.
One thing that has stuck with me throughout the course is my belief that we must work towards making outdoor spaces accessible and welcoming for people of all backgrounds. The role of privilege was discussed in Unit 3: Risk versus Reward in Interpretation in terms of accessing environmental interpretation opportunities. We discussed the “invisible backpack” of biases and experiences each person carries, which shapes how they experience outdoor environments. This concept resonated with me deeply, as I’m reminded of the barriers that are present in accessing environmental interpretation. I’m motivated by the belief that everyone, regardless of their background, deserves a welcoming space in nature.
My responsibility as an interpreter, I have two main responsibilities. On one hand, as someone with a university level understanding of environmental science, I feel somewhat responsible for sharing what I have learnt and passing on knowledge to the next, younger generation. By doing so, I would hope to inspire new generations to care for the planet. As Rodenburg wrote in this week’s reading, “We can create nature-rich communities where kids feel a deep and abiding love for the living systems that we all are immersed in”. Allowing people to feel safe and connected to the outdoors at an early age can have cascading impacts in communities and throughout generations.
On the other hand, making nature interpretation accessible to people of all backgrounds is a priority for me. There are so many ways to engage audiences, from storytelling and hands-on activities, to using science, history, art, and music to bridge connections. I’m particularly drawn to creative approaches like guided walks, natural arts and crafts like flower pressing or plant-dyeing. Being able to interpret nature in various ways that go beyond signs, and formal talks, allows audiences to connect in a memorable way that can transcend language and cultural barriers.
Reflecting on my own experiences growing up as a person of color in a largely white community, I am conscious of the privilege dynamics in nature interpretation. Privilege, refers to the unearned advantages that often remain invisible to those who hold them. This advantage plays a role in determining who feels comfortable and represented in outdoor spaces. For example, financial limitations, transportation barriers, and language barriers can restrict access for BIPOC communities. As an interpreter, I want to push against these boundaries, helping ensure that everyone can feel welcomed in outdoor spaces.
One way I envision creating more inclusive nature experiences is by working to make interpretation content and language accessible. Many interpretive signs and guides are only available in English, and they tend to assume a certain level of background knowledge, which can alienate non-native English speakers and individuals who don’t have a scientific background. As someone with a scientific background, my goal would be to break down scientific concepts into relatable and engaging experiences. By using creative ways and plain language to explain concepts, I hope to create memorable and meaningful interactions for both children and adults that inspire curiosity and care for the environment.
In this course, I've also become aware of how history shapes our relationship with the land. All natural sites have stories, and as interpreters, we have the opportunity to share this history in ways that are meaningful and reflective. I often walk around the Arboretum on campus and the interpretive signs always capture my attention. Whether it’s about the history of the area or a specific species, learning about the land makes me feel connected to the space. And this is a feeling I would love for others to experience.
I’ve also come to recognize the sounds of nature as an interpretive medium. Often people overlook the sounds of nature, yet it offers such a unique sensory experience that can connect us to the outdoors. When I'm outdoors, I love clearing my head and listening to my surroundings. Whether it’s bird song, rustling leaves, or flowing water, nature’s music has the ability to calm and ground us when we take a moment to pause, listen and engage with our surroundings.
Overall, I have learnt that being a nature interpreter is about weaving science, history, creativity, and inclusivity into the experiences I offer. From adapting my approach to the audience’s learning styles, to acknowledging and addressing the barriers posed by privilege, my goal is to create a safe space where all people feel welcome, seen, and can gain a sense of connection to nature. I hope to inspire in others the same passions I have for the natural world.
Hey, Julianne! I resonated with your point about the concept of the “invisible backpack” sticking with you. I also found this idea extremely helpful and developed a deeper understanding of what it means to account for privilege in the field of nature interpretation. You touched on your goal to interpret nature to others through creative approaches like arts and crafts, which I think sound like fantastic ideas since you stated you are a visual learner. Therefore, having the experience of learning best through visual cues, I believe that you would be extremely qualified to connect with others who learn best this way.
The point that sings often assume some form of background/previous knowledge which can alienate people who are non-English speakers and/or individuals who lack a scientific background really impacted me. While I have considered the exclusion that English-only signs can cause, I have not considered that many people may require interpretation at a level that may seem more “basic” than what is typically offered to their age group as they do not have the same background information. For example, if someone who has not experienced changing seasons saw an abstract painting of fall in northern Ontario, they may be confused to see abstract choices of colours used for leaves. If I were to see a Canadian fall landscape with pink and blue leaves, I would automatically know that it was the creative choice of the artist. However, someone who does not experience seasons like fall may require a more in-depth explanation to fully appreciate and understand the interpretation. This was a thought-provoking point and I enjoyed exploring that thought!
Unit 10 Blog Post: My Interpretive Ethic
Throughout this course, I have really enjoyed learning about different interpretation styles and approaches. As it is coming to an end, this is a great time to reflect on my personal ethic as a nature interpreter. I have spent time this week reflecting on my beliefs and responsibilities as an interpreter, and how these things will influence how I approach interpreting nature for others.
One of my main beliefs as an interpreter is that everyone should have the right to get outdoors. There is a very real disconnect in our modern world between people and the environment (van Boeckel, 2015), and I think this is a driving force behind some of the environmental issues that we are battling. It is easy to overlook the impacts that our actions have on the environment when it is a distant, hypothetical concept, and most of our time is spent indoors. Through offering audiences a sense of place, or a way to connect with the beauty and significance of natural environments, I believe nature interpretation is a powerful tool that can be used to fight this disconnect, described in the textbook as “nature-deficit disorder” (Knudson et al., 2018).
As valuable as interpretation can be, I also think that it is the responsibility of interpreters to acknowledge other barriers, such as privilege, that prevent people from accessing the natural world. The lack of nature within our cities and backyards is not the only factor fueling our environmental disconnect. Visiting natural areas, such as national parks and wildlife reserves, can be expensive, requiring access to a car and proper hiking or camping gear. When people arrive at these natural areas, language barriers and other factors can also prevent them from making the most of their experience (Gallavan, 2005). It is the responsibility of interpreters to work to understand how these differences in privilege affect their audiences, and take an active role in making interpretive experiences as accessible as possible. This could be as small as modifying a hike for a participant in a wheelchair, or more widespread, such as organizing hiking and camping trips for children who may not be able to afford these experiences otherwise. Privilege is something that impacts our lives every day, and interpreters should try to understand this privilege and how it influences the views and perspectives of their audiences.
Language barriers can make signage in nature, such as trail signs, less accessible.
Another belief that I have about nature interpretation is that it should be centered around joy. I know that there are a lot of major issues threatening our natural world today. Climate change is altering ecosystem function and throwing essential systems out of balance. Pollution is degrading even the most pristine environments, and making our air and water less safe to breathe and drink. While nature interpreters have a responsibility to educate people about these issues and be a driver of change, I do not think this should be the main focus of an interpretive experience. I have attended many lectures and presentations about climate change and environmental issues, and most of the time I do not leave feeling empowered. Instead, it leaves me feeling hopeless and discouraged. However, I have noticed that after I spend time appreciating the beauty of nature, and have an outdoor experience that allows me to connect to the environment in a hands-on way, I feel more empowered to try to tackle these issues. I think interpretation should focus on creating these joyful outdoor experiences that bring audiences closer to the natural world. While a “takeaway” message of an interpretive experience can focus on conservation and environmental issues, I think creating an emotional and kinesthetic connection with the environment can be more empowering for audiences than a factual, “doom and gloom” approach to tackling these issues.
So how does this relate to how I would approach nature interpretation? I think these beliefs and responsibilities that I have addressed will help me tailor interpretive programs to become more impactful. First of all, although there are many ways to bring nature to audiences through technology, such as podcasts and blogs, I think I prefer a more personal approach. In my previous experience interpreting nature at Point Pelee National Park, I realized the importance of interacting directly with audiences to foster a connection with the natural world. One example of this was when I was monitoring turtle nests, and releasing turtle hatchlings from our protected nests into the marsh. Many visitors had never seen a turtle before, and watching their faces light up when I showed them the hatchlings and answered their questions was such a rewarding experience. I was able to see first-hand the connection that I was helping them make with their environment. I also think that I would like to focus on connecting with audiences through emotional and kinesthetic learning styles. These are mentioned in the textbook, which describes emotional learning as targeting emotions and feelings, and kinesthetic as focusing on hands-on activities (Knudson et al., 2018). I learn better and personally relate to things when I can try them myself, and think that incorporating these activities into an interpretive experience can make it more memorable and impactful.
Showing turtle hatchlings to visitors was one of my favourite parts of my job at Point Pelee National Park.
A quote that resonated with me from this week’s reading was one by environmental educator Jacob Rodenburg. When talking about challenges in interpretation today, Rodenburg said, “I’m trying hard not to get discouraged. Being an environmental educator in today’s world feels like you are asked to stop a rushing river armed only with a teaspoon.” (Knudson et al., 2018). There are so many challenges facing the environment, and interpreters, today. The inaccessibility of nature makes it difficult to foster a connection between people and the natural environment, and the seriousness of the environmental issues that the world is facing make learning about nature intimidating. However, I believe that nature interpretation can increase the accessibility of natural experiences, and be utilized as a tool to bring the joy of connecting with nature back to the modern world.
Works Cited
Gallavan, N. P. (2005). Helping teachers unpack their “invisible knapsacks.” Multicultural Education, 13(1).
Knudson, D. M., Beck, L., Cable, T. T. (2018). Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage: For a Better World. Sagamore Publishing LLC. https://sagamore.vitalsource.com/books/9781571678669
van Boeckel, J. (2015). At the heart of art and earth: an exploration of practices in arts-based environmental education. Environmental Education Research, 21(5). https://doi.org/10.1080/13504622.2014.959474
Hi, Cara! Your point about spending less time outdoors contributing to the negative health of our environment was insightful. When we are separated from our natural world, it is difficult to develop the stewardship needed to take care of it. You mentioned the ease with which people can overlook environmental issues because they seem hypothetical when you are disconnected from them. It is our job as interpreters to reignite a connection with nature in order for current and future generations to be passionate about the very real concerns facing our environment today.
Your suggestions for accounting for privilege worked to highlight your belief that everyone has the right to get outdoors. I specifically resonated with your point about language barriers making signage less accessible. This could also pose a safety risk if visitors cannot read important safety information about a particular area. For reasons such as these, it is up to us as interpreters to also take responsibility for hazards by considering any risk.
You mentioned how the approach in which nature is discussed is important for encouraging others to care, and that the “doom and gloom” approach can be less effective. I completely agree with this point and have found this to be true for myself. When learning about climate change, it is easy to hear about polar bears and melting ice caps and feel discouraged and helpless. Alternatively, appreciating and connecting with the squirrels in the park, for example, can inspire you to be more aware of littering. In both of these examples, the topic could be conservation, but the different approaches can have vastly different results.
This was a fantastic post!
Unit 10 Blog Post: Me as an Interpreter
Throughout this course, I have had the privilege to develop significantly in regard to what my role can be as a nature interpreter. In terms of my personal ethics, I have developed the belief that in order to find true meaning in life, one needs to have a connection with the natural world. This could be really anything- camping trips, a walk in a park, or even just feeling the breeze when you let your dog outside. Finding small but meaningful ways in which to connect with nature is grounding. When life is chaotic and your list of responsibilities feels endless, there is a sense of peace that can be found when, even just for a brief moment, you can take in and appreciate the nature surrounding you. I draw this belief back to childhood. As young kids, we would tire ourselves out riding bikes, drawing with chalk on the road, begging our parents to take us to our friend's house for a swim, and really just running around. These activities are important to the development of a healthy and well-balanced outlook on life as they force a separation between self and world. As we grow up, however, we lose the same joy we once found outside and instead turn to other things to fill our time. While I am not saying you need to get out and roll in the grass after your 9-5 (which honestly doesn’t sound like a bad idea), finding some way to connect with nature in our adult lives becomes something that many of us have to actively pursue. I believe that for someone to live a balanced life, being consciously aware of finding moments to enjoy nature is more than necessary. Reflecting on this course and the many ways interpreters can share the gift of nature, I realized that these personal views have dramatically changed. For many years, the advice “go outside” caused me to roll my eyes. I would think to myself, “Yeah, if only that could solve all of my problems”. But, thanks to the content of the course and the blogs of my peers, I have a very different interpretation of this once annoying sentiment. When someone says something along the lines of “go outside”, often the meaning is much deeper. I now interpret these words as “find some meaning”.
Going outside and hearing the birds chirping and wondering what they are saying.
Making note of what colours an artist chose to paint the leaves to decipher what time of year is being depicted.
Watching “Saving Private Ryan” and now associating France with its rich history rather than just the structure of the Eiffel Tower.
All of these things encourage you to find a little meaning. This forces you to step outside of yourself, even just for a moment, and connect with the natural world. My father used to tell me that if you are constantly looking down on your own problems, you can’t see the helping hands being offered right in front of you. This, of course, is a nuanced conversation and in no way am I suggesting nature as a cure for negative mental health, but learning to find meaning in a world so much bigger than you can help shift perspective. If not that, it simply provides a momentary escape from whatever troubles you may be facing.
I as an interpreter of nature have the responsibility to teach others how to find these small but impactful connections with nature. Regardless of how impactful I have found this myself, the work of the interpreter is to share the passion for and knowledge of the natural world with as many people who are willing. In order to do this effectively, I have to take privilege and risk into account. When interpreting nature I have a responsibility to be aware of different living situations, cultural backgrounds, economic standing, etc., to prevent members of my audience from feeling alienated and therefore disengaging. For example, encouraging someone to go for a hike with a friend doesn’t consider the fact that they may not live near a natural space to do this, or do not have the resources to travel to such a place. When I as the interpreter am aware of specific circumstances, this could be a great suggestion. However, making this a point to an audience member without these privileges may make them feel like this just isn’t something they can do. Furthermore, encouraging someone to go on a hike could lead to dangerous situations if a child, for example, decides to go for a walk alone. The concern for risk is part of the reason children spend less and less time outdoors in school systems, as the concern becomes about insurance and liability (Rodenburg, 2019). This poses a challenge for interpreters to get creative in the ways that children are encouraged to pay attention to the natural world. Therefore, I would tailor my role as interpreter to my audience in many ways, with specific attention to the privilege and risk that would stand as a barrier to the goal.
Appreciating the beauty of the natural world, like the clouds, is a way to start building your relationship with nature.
For me as an individual, I find that I am most encouraged by things that seem manageable. Not wanting to go for a run or wake up to see the sunrise has in the past made me feel as though this connection with nature was unattainable. I am much more responsive to the idea of building my relationship with nature through small steps such as taking a picture of the sky when I notice the clouds, or keeping an eye out for a bird species I think is pretty. By not ‘biting off more than I can chew’, the journey to a meaningful relationship with nature is something I build on over time and can truly sustain. I can bring this personal approach to interpretation to my audiences with a particular focus on teens and young adults because I empathize with feeling overwhelmed and needing the steps broken down into something manageable. Another interesting factor to consider is a decreasing attention span parallel to the increase in technology use, so encouraging small and often fast ways to begin to notice the beauty of nature can serve as a more effective method to ignite the spark for connections with the earth.
Reference:
Rodenburg, J. (2019). Why environmental educators shouldn’t give up hope. Retrieved from https://clearingmagazine.org/archives/14300
Unit 09 Blog Post: Most Amazing Thing about Nature
When presented with the question, “what is the most amazing thing about nature”, the first thing that came to mind sounds pretty juvenile - the animals. While this may seem general and uninspired, I believe that many children began to fall in love with nature through an interest and connection with animals, making it a great way to interpret nature to them.
Upon reflecting a little further, I would say that the most amazing part of nature is connection and unity. When out in the wilderness, the division of species becomes blurred. Sitting by the fire watching my dad cook sausages starts to seem awfully similar to the small squirrel running around collecting nuts, the massive oak tree with roots deep in the soil, and the bees hoping from plant to plant. There is this beautiful sense of ‘we are all the same’ that creeps in if you allow yourself to acknowledge that humans are no better than any other living creature. While it is true that we packed food and brought it to the campsite with us, without the knowledge of how to pack and prepare it, it is useless. Similarly, all the nuts in the forest would sit and rot if squirrels did not evolve the ability to collect and store them.
I think people too often have the impression that humans as a species are above others. After all, how else can we justify having pets or eating commercially manufactured meats? However, when out in nature, especially when deep in the northern interior, you start to realize how deeply connected all living things are. One major experience in my life that I have touched on in a previous post was my time spent volunteering at a wildlife rehabilitation centre. In my time there I was able to connect with so many different animals that are native to southern Ontario, and it developed in me a much deeper understanding and relationship with them. Pigeons, that I once saw everyday without paying much mind at all, became a creature that I helped nurse back to health. This type of experience created a connection between myself and this previously non-interesting bird, and now I pay close attention to them any opportunity I get. Spending my time connecting with animals and helping heal them from harm done by humans, directly or indirectly, made me develop a kinship not only for the animals themselves, but also with all of the other members of the community who care for them as well. This connection became particularity prevalent with squirrels, and I got to really see the effects of this newfound connection during my next trip camping up north. As a result of becoming intimately familiar with them, I spent much of my trip observing them and their behaviour. An animal I often would not pay attention to, become the focal point of my trip and completely immersed me in the natural environment.
All of this to say, when you are able to find connection and respect for the living things in the natural world, you can develop a sense of unity. Learning to pay attention to the seemingly ‘uninteresting’ aspects of nature challenges your individualism and encourages you to find commonalities. These commonalities, to me, are the most amazing part of nature.
unit 09 blog post
Picture entering a forest—not just any forest, but one where each branch and leaf appears to be alive and whispering secrets that only the most perceptive can decipher. Every sound seems to be a part of a vast, unseen symphony, and the air is thick and moist with the smell of the land. Nature is more than just a setting here, under the canopy; it is a cosmos with countless tales to be told.
Nature's subtle communication between its organisms, known as its secret language, is one of its most amazing features. Imagine trees, silent and towering. Although they may appear to be lone giants to you, they are anything but. Trees connect to one another via a network called the "Wood Wide Web." Their roots entwine with fungi underground, establishing symbiotic relationships that enable them to exchange water, nutrients, and even insect alerts. Through these fungal linkages, when one tree is attacked, it notifies other trees in the area to increase their defences. The forest floor is equipped with a system of resistance, support, and survival.
The wonders of the forest, however, extend beyond its foundation. Above earth, the trees reach the sky, sheltering a variety of organisms that contribute to the forest's harmonious ecosystem. Birds bring liveliness to the atmosphere with their colourful feathers and melodic sounds. Their songs are intricate messages that identify territory, call for mates, or alert others to danger. They are more than just lovely sounds. Every trill and chirp is a note in the survival orchestra. The discourse between the trees and the organisms they harbour is practically audible if you close your eyes and listen.
Even the light has a role to play here. Beams of sunshine shine through the canopy as morning emerges, creating patterns on the forest floor and shedding light on lichen and moss patches. It serves as a gentle reminder of how nature keeps everything in balance, with each component supporting the others to create a peaceful ecosystem that has flourished for thousands of years.
Every time I go to Toronto's High Park, I get a little bit of this magic. It's incredible how entering this area of nature, even in the middle of the city, can make you feel as though you're a part of something living and ancient. I long for the sensation of calm and connectedness, which is brought by the cherry blossoms in the spring, the birdsong in the morning, and the soft rustle of leaves. I feel as though I'm connecting with the same web of life and the same ageless rhythm that throbs through untamed forests as I go along the paths or sit peacefully in the shade.
Nature isn't just "out there" in some far-off wilderness; it's right here, approachable, and equally important, as High Park reminds me. My respect for the tenacity and balance of the natural world is renewed with each visit, and it also sort of helps me find some balance in my own life. We are all a part of something much bigger—a symphony of life, in which each of us plays a crucial note—and nature, in all her unadulterated beauty, teaches me patience and connection.
Hi Lucy! This was a beautiful post. I really feel as though I could picture everything you were saying. Your way of seamlessly connecting different aspects of nature made your writing flow wonderfully.
I honestly did not know much about the “Wood Wide Web” and it really resonated with me. While we cannot see this roots interacting and the trees appear to be alone, beneath the surface there is this incredibly intricate connection. Not only does this apply to nature and the constant connection with the earth it can provide us, but it also applies to people. It made me consider the invisible network of support and connection we all have in our own lives, despite not being able to see them by just looking at someone. This parallel reminded me of how nature and its interactions can be mirrored by humans.
I also resonated with your point about nature being “right here”. It is easy to think of nature as something you may travel to in order to experience, but just stepping outside your front door can provide you with this beautiful balance that nature has mastered. Viewing nature as something “living and ancient” was a good reminder to me to continue to challenge my perspective. Remembering that the natural world has persisted long before me is important to maintain a level of respect for its living organisms.
Im curious to know why the cherry blossoms in particular bring you this sense of calm and connection. Is there a reason this tree resonates with you so deeply?
I throughly enjoyed reading and reflecting on this post. Thank you for sharing!
Unit 07 Blog Post: Nature Interpretation Through Music
As the textbook suggests, alternate forms of media allow us to share nature with people who may not be frequenting natural/heritage sites. This allows us as interpreters to reach a new audience and prevents us from just attempting to inspire people who are already on board with our mission (Knudson et al., 182).
One of the ways to do this is through music. Music exists all throughout nature. From periodic gusts of wind creating percussive sounds through the leaves to the melodies of songbirds, music is infused in nature. For me personally, one of the best ways to immerse myself in nature is to attempt to tune into the sounds and find melodies and patterns.
On a related note, nature can be found in music. A song that incorporates whistles, for example, can remind listeners of these gusts of wind or bird songs heard when out in nature. Aside from the literal sounds that can conjure connections to nature and naturally occurring sounds, music can also allow listeners to connect with the natural world's cultural aspects. Growing up in southern Ontario, I was privileged to attend Pow Wows held by surrounding First Nations communities. Our schools were invited to watch their dances and songs and learn about their culture. When one considers the cultural and spiritual connection with nature that is infused in the very essence of First Nation’s culture, their music and song immediately remind me of the intrinsic value of our natural resources.
Furthermore, as a result of my experiences, it reminds me of where I grew up. Not in the sense that I few up in First Nation’s culture, but rather that despite living in such close proximity to these communities, I lacked a sense of respect and connection to the natural world around me. This music and these songs now serve as a reminder to recognize and appreciate the nature I was lucky enough to grow up in.
As I have mentioned in previous blog posts, my family has a deep connection with Algonquin Park, especially my father. I have spoken about the loss of my brother and how my father and I have continued to visit the park together, and how that often reminds us of him. As a little girl, my dad would play the song “Father and Daughter” by Paul Simon, and I, as an eight-year-old, would make him turn it off because it made me too emotional. In the recent years of taking trips to Algonquin, just us two, that song reminds me of our deep connection and support for each other. No matter how difficult it is sometimes to live life yet alone be in Algonquin without my brother, we have this special father-daughter bond that is unbreakable. Now, when I hear that song, I think of us. I think of us driving up north together, sitting by the fire, and talking for hours. The song reminds me of the person who gifted me a sense of place in nature.
Reference:
Knudson, Larry Beck, Ted T. Cable, Douglas M. Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage: For a Better World. Available from: Sagamore Publishing LLC, Sagamore Publishing LLC, 2018.xc
Week 7 - Nature Interpretation Through Music
As we step outside, away from the noisy distractions of modern life, we are introduced to a whole new world of sound.
We search for serene spots of silence in nature, but instead we’re met with rustling leaves, trickling water, and chatty animals. Can these natural sounds be considered music?
According to Gray et al. (2001), “music has been defined as patterns of sound varying in pitch and time produced for emotional, social, cultural, and cognitive purposes”. By this definition, certain animals create music that has extraordinary parallels to the music humans compose (Gray et al., 2001). For instance, we have literally classified an entire suborder of avians as songbirds. We also can’t forget about the deep, melodic vocalizations of whales.
As animals, humans are no doubt a part of nature, and there is evidence (e.g. prehistoric flutes) that our ancestors were as musically-inclined as we are (Gray et al., 2001). However, present-day humans are obviously different from Neanderthals, just like how songbirds are very different from whales. Nevertheless, music appears to be a common denominator that connects members of the animal kingdom across time and space. Is music an inherent part of nature, rather than something that’s coincidently found in it?
To answer this, I’d like to focus on the second half of the definition of music, which describes its purpose for production. At its core, music is an artistic form of communication. For example, male birds sing to attract mates, and whales use songs to locate each other. Memorizing and recognizing musical patterns is therefore necessary for survival, and these learned behaviours are passed on through traditions (Gray et al., 2001). Humans look to music for survival as well, whether it improves your mental wellbeing or you’re earning a wage as a musician.
Music can also educate its audience through subtle or explicit messages. For instance, themes in song lyrics vary from love to growing up to social justice. Although nature is commonly found in music, it is usually secondary to other themes. In my own playlists, many songs are centered around seasonality, such as summer love or fall melancholy. However, very few songs focus solely on nature. Perhaps because they're not as entertaining to most people, which could explain why “Earth Song” by Michael Jackson is much less popular than “Thriller”.
Other forms of music can still have powerful messaging without the use of lyrics. For example, the iconic mockingjay whistle in The Hunger Games can be interpreted as a symbol of rebellion. A real-life case is New York's “wildlife DJ”, Ben Mirin. He uses samples of animal sounds in his beatboxing performances to connect his audience to nature, no matter where they are (GrrlScientist, 2016).
One of my favourite nature-inspired songs is the cover of “What A Wonderful World” by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole. Even though I’ve never traveled to Hawaii before, the banjo and descriptive lyrics immediately transport me to the breathtaking beaches there. The song also reminds me of certain people, shows, and moments in my life. Clearly, the interpretive nature of music speaks volume about its power.
References
GrrlScientist. (2016, September 21). Music As A Gateway To Nature. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/grrlscientist/2016/09/21/music-as-a-gateway-to-nature/#17360a44549e 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, Olivea! This post was fantastic. I love that you included a definition highlighting that animals and nature can also create music. I touched on this in my post as well, and really had to think about how we were classifying “music”. I didn’t really consider how its intrinsic purpose plays a big role in its definition, so I found your point about this fascinating. Your compassion of the popularity of Michael Jackson’s “Thriller” to “Earth Song” was a powerful way to highlight how music focusing just on nature can be less entertaining. It made me consider whether a song about earth set to the melody of “Thriller” would have performed well. I question if it is the melody or the lyrics that would be most effective.
I personally think that, related to your point about secondary themes, people need a provocative “hook” to grab their attention and hold it there. I draw a parallel to nature documentaries. A documentary that shows a lion walking around while listing facts is much less entraining than a documentary that highlights exciting behaviours and plays to viewer’s emotions, while still receiving the main message/information.
Your connection to a specific cover of “What A Wonderful World” and how it transports you to a place you have never actually visited was beautiful. It was the perfect example of how important nature in music is. One should not necessarily have to be present in an environment to understand its beauty and value, and you exemplified this perfectly.
Unit 6 Blog #1
In unpacking this quote I want to first note that I had some difficulty understanding exactly what it meant and had to read it several times to grasp the concepts fully. For this reason, I believe this quote does not do the best job of delivering information in a simple and accessible way, as discussed in the textbook readings for this unit. Although there is a time and place for eloquence and complexity, this quote—to me—feels unnecessarily complicated to deliver its intended message and may cause readers to skip over it without trying to understand. This type of complexity is a perceived barrier to a lot of interpretation and is thus important to note in unpacking this quote, especially in the context of an interpretation course.
To best unpack the content of this quote, I want to first reword it in my own words to form an understanding of its meaning for further discussion. I believe this quote is saying that even if historical artifacts and stories do not have their own inherent value, their context as part of the broader story of history is crucial to present an honest and complete narrative. This is also much of what this unit has been about, ensuring that interpretation is prioritizing truth and accuracy over entertainment, often with specific reference to being honest about uncomfortable histories that nevertheless need to be discussed. Understanding history is important for any kind of interpretation, for example in discussion of species (in which case the evolutionary history is vital to a complete understanding), regions (in which individuals and groups who have been on the land have shaped it in various ways), or the importance of conservation (in which the processes that led to this point are valuable for knowing what may have gone wrong and what needs to be corrected moving forward). History is a valuable teacher in all areas, and I believe this is the essence of what the author wanted to express when writing this quote.
Other interesting things I wanted to note about this quote relate to word choice. Notably, the word integrity in this instance could be used as either of its definitions. Being honest and maintaining strong principles, and a state of being whole and undivided are accurate as there is a moral obligation to deliver the complete and undivided story. I am unsure whether this was intentional, and I cannot confirm which use the author had in mind, but it does demonstrate how impactful good word choice can be when multiple definitions or understandings of a word lead to the same conclusion. On the other hand, the use of the word peculiar in this quote confused me, as I had only ever heard it used as a synonym for “strange” rather than a synonym for “particular” as it is here. I imagine this is either a generational or regional use difference, but this presents the opposite side of impactful word choice, in which differing understandings of a word can significantly alter the content of a story.
This was a great post with many interesting points! While I agree that a quote this complex may cause readers to skip over it without fully understanding, I would argue that the complexity and difficulty of this quote are catered to this specific audience. As university students studying nature interpretation through our assigned readings/textbook, I believe the quote caters to this intended audience as it requires deeper thought and analysis. For a different audience, I would agree that the language used could serve as a barrier, but I believe that the quote is meant to be interpreted at the level in which we are studying. However, your point about the use of the word “peculiar” causing some confusion was very relatable and caused a bit of confusion for me as well.
I enjoyed how you put the quote into your own words and mentioned that history provides “…an honest and complete narrative”. I think this choice of words really works to illustrate how in many cases, parts of history may be negative and shameful and therefore brushed over. However, all aspects of history are important for context. Furthermore, understanding history allows us to consider past mistakes that we wish to correct. An important aspect of this is to always be conscious of the audience. While making sure historical information is relayed accurately, it is also crucial to consider who we are speaking to. An eight-year-old child, for example, may not be ready to hear an interpreter explain the horrific history of a residential school in which they may be visiting the memorial of, but their parents would require more information to fully understand the history. For this reason, interpreters must be able to relay the same historical facts in a multitude of digestibilities in order to ensure everyone is engaged in a positive learning experience.
Unit 06 Blog Post: Nature Interpretation Through History (Quote)
“There is no peculiar merit in ancient things, but there is merit in integrity, and integrity entails the keeping together of the parts of any whole, and if these parts are scattered throughout time, then the maintenance of integrity entails a knowledge, a memory, of ancient things. …. To think, feel or act as though the past is done with, is equivalent to believing that a railway station through which our train has just passed, only existed for as long as our train was in it.”
(Edward Hyams, Chapter 7, The Gifts of Interpretation)
Unpacking this quote...
In an attempt to interpret this quote, it was helpful for me to break it down into different sections. The first part of this quote speaks to the fact that historical artifacts or sites do not have inherent importance themselves, but rather the time, place, and story behind these things are what make them significant. Consider a rock, for example. With no other context, the rock is nothing more than a rock. However, if an archeologist looked at it and determined it to be a fragmented part of a dinosaur, the rock immediately gained significance and meaning.
This brings us to the next part of the quote: “…if these parts are scattered throughout time, then the maintenance of integrity entails a knowledge, a memory, of ancient things…”. In order for us to determine that this rock holds some significance, we required an expert in the field to relay that information to us. The expert in this example would have had to gain this knowledge from someone before her, and so on. Therefore, this part of the quote highlights the importance of passing knowledge down in order to hold on to the historical significance (i.e., the story) of the rock, or any other historical artifact or landscape. This idea of sharing rich historical knowledge points to how important it is for nature interpreters to convey information to others in a way that will stick with and inspire them. Carrying on with our example about the rock, we can consider how using our skills as interpreters to explain the importance of the natural world through history will have a ripple effect- the person who found the rock may be inspired to look for others, share this new knowledge with others, and even encourage others to explore rocks themselves. Without the transfer of the historical significance of the rock, the original person would not have experienced this inspiration and therefore would not have been able to share it. Furthermore, this transfer of knowledge from expert to finder in this example required the expert to cater to the unique needs of the finder in order to best engage them with historical information. While you may explain topics like carbon dating to an adult, you may focus on the actual dinosaur itself for a child- and both would achieve the same result. It is also important to note that sometimes, history is uncomfortable. It is the job of the interpreter to carefully walk the line between providing historically accurate information that will engage and inspire while paying close attention to who their audience is and what is appropriate for them to hear.
The last part of the quote reminds us never to let the past “die”. Without continuing to learn about and share history, we lose out on a large amount of the story, making it harder for people to connect with the natural world. Would you be as interested in a book if you only read the last 20 pages? The analogy of “…a railway station through which our train has just passed, only existed for as long as our train was in it” as it is connected to disregarding history, paints a powerful picture. The train station existed before, during, and after our train was in it, but if we only considered its existence when our train was present, we would all agree that it is untrue. So, if we agree that the station always existed, we can understand how history shapes the present and future. Importantly, this includes the good and bad parts of history.
Blog Post 5
Lately, I have been soaking in the change of seasons, especially as fall starts making its entrance. The colors are just so pretty: reds, oranges, and yellows gradually taking over from green. It's as if nature is trying to put on one last show before winter comes around. As the crispness starts to settle into the air and the leaves crunch at my feet, I'm reminded how peaceful everything feels but alive. With each passing season, I am struck by the change that occurs within my relationship with nature. Perhaps more than others, fall brings to my attention the dynamic features of the natural world and how my own relationship with it ebbs and flows with time.
This somewhat relates to some of the ideas about nature interpretation that I have been considering lately. There's something really powerful with using different lenses through which to look at the environment. I have come to realize that while science is a good tool to understand nature, it's but one way of doing so. Personally, it's more about helping others connect with nature in ways which resonate with them. Making nature relatable and meaningful can be through a story, an experience, or some simple observation.
This has been on my mind lately in light of the work that we have been doing with our podcasts: just so much potential to share in a way that's really engaging, no matter what one's age might be. Interpretation is like the seasons: it's always evolving, offering new ways in which this people-to-nature connection might be made. I am excited, just as fall would encourage us all to embrace change, as I do not know what this journey will take me on.
Hey, Farhiya! This is a beautifully written post. I connected with your point about fall encouraging us to embrace change. If changes in temperature and the colour of the leaves are beautiful to me, why can’t other forms of change also be embraced in such a way? Even though change can be scary and uncomfortable, when we learn to embrace what the new challenges will bring, it can become exciting - just as how the changing seasons can feel like a new beginning! I loved your point about nature showing off for us one more time before winter comes. It is like the heat of summer is saying goodbye, and encouraging us to embrace the change to come.
I thought the way you connected your topic with ideas of interpretation was awesome! I completely agree with the idea of using different methods to help people connect with nature depending on what resonates with them. While some may prefer to walk through a forest and to hear the sounds of leaves crunching and birds chirping, some may connect better with a piece of art in a gallery. Maybe someone gets overstimulated with the competing sounds in a forest and therefore would not be able to be present and connect with nature in a meaningful way. It is critical that interpreters consider and cater to the needs of others in order to inspire others to find a connection with the natural world.
The topic of this post was very relevant to the current season and it reminded me to try and enjoy nature through all my different senses!
Unit 05 Blog Post: The Jack Pine (free write)
A Jack pine tree
Considering there is no blog post this week, I wanted to touch on something extremely important to me, and it involves Jack pine.
I am sure most people have seen one before. Whether in person, in a famous Tom Thomson painting (which has hung on the walls of our home for as long as I can recall), or on Google images, people tend to know what this tree looks like. One of the most interesting things about the Jack pine is that its seeds require a temperature as produced by a forest fire to open their cones and allow growth (CTV News). In my family, this turned into a kind of metaphor for having to go through something hard to grow as a person- “Jack pines only grow after forest fires”. This became something we talked about after my older brother, Jack, got a tattoo of a Jack pine on his arm. While I’m 99% sure it was just because his name is also Jack, he would say that it is meaningful- that Jack pines only grow after forest fires.
The main reason I chose this topic for this week’s blog post is because it is currently approaching the three-year anniversary of my older brother Jack’s death. This time of year is conflicting for me- the leaves are changing and so much beauty surrounds me, but it also serves as a reminder of the loss of my best friend. Jack was an incredible human being. He was extremely intelligent and was in the process of completing a degree in mining engineering at Queens University. In addition to camping in the Algonquin interior, Jack spent time in Kirkland Lake working in a mine. In all the time he spent up north in nature, I believe he felt a sense of identity with it. He would seek out interesting hiking trails, enjoyed fishing with my father, and took tremendous pride in being the one to make the fire and keep in going. I believe it was up north on a trip with my father in Algonquin that they discussed the different types of trees. I think it was then that he became interested in the Jack pine.
Following his death, my mom, my dad and I decided to get his tattoo. Now, the four of us have an identical Jack pine tattoo on our right triceps. The Jack pine has now become a symbol of finding light in the darkness- to acknowledge the growth we face as a result of adversity.
My brother Jack's Tattoo
Whenever I look down at my arm, I am reminded of my brother and the connection my family has with nature. During trips up north with my father, we search for Jack pines and he always makes sure to point them out to me. Jack was my biggest role model and I am lucky to have been his sister. Even in his death, he has given me a gift- he has strengthened by relationship with nature and given me something to seek and connect with when out in the natural world.
My tattoo of a Jack pine tree
Bjorn, D. (2024, October 11). Jack Pine. Flickr. https://www.flickr.com/photos/dbjorn/878733054/
CTVNews. (2023, September 15). Photos: Here’s how desolate land can become lush forest again post-fire. CTVNews. https://www.ctvnews.ca/climate-and-environment/photos-here-s-how-desolate-land-can-become-lush-forest-again-post-fire-1.6563216
Unit 04 Blog Post: Nature Interpretation through Art
The Jack Pine by Tom Thomson (via: https://epdlp.com/cuadro.php?id=3413)
Growing up, my home was filled with paintings. From recreations of famous Tom Thomson paintings to abstract depictions of a canoe, there was a key focus on art inspired by nature. I never really noticed them as a kid- they were just always there up on the walls. As I grew up and began to experience nature more consciously, my perspective changed. Where I once saw a large, bendy-looking tree in a frame in the dining room, I now saw a jack pine waving in the wind like I had seen so many times in person. After coming to the realization that the paintings in my home were depictions of the real world, my relationship with visual mediums of art and how they relate to nature interpretation changed.
So, who am I to interpret nature through art? Regardless of my growing knowledge of interpretation through this course, I am no different from anyone else who has a desire to appreciate the beauty of nature. I am someone who has learned to appreciate nature through the use of art as a tool to seek inspiration. Prior to my last camping trip with my father, we stopped at the Algonquin Art Museum. This experience made the trip that followed incredibly impactful as I searched for both big and small aspects of beauty that could inspire me enough to think, “this could make a beautiful painting”, or “everyone would see this and want to come here”. This small anecdote exemplifies the way art can help people connect with the natural world.
When people understand that the beauty in the art before them is a depiction of the natural world and that it truly exists, an appreciation for the reality of nature’s beauty can develop. While it may seem silly that an abstract painting of a landscape is helping people appreciate nature in their own backyards, it is true. When one can understand that an artist was inspired by the natural world enough to create beautiful pieces of art, dance, music, etc., it begs the question- how did they come up with that? In asking yourself these questions, you may start to seek out inspiration and a deeper meaning for yourself when out in nature. This is how I have interpreted nature through art. When I stopped to consider what made a specific aspect of a piece of art inspirational enough to warrant such beauty, I started to seek out inspiration for myself. Therefore, while art is an excellent tool to inspire people to appreciate the beauty of nature, it also is a way to encourage people to consider for themselves what beauty they can observe for themselves.
Given this, I interpret the gift of beauty through my desire to sense the beauty in my surroundings. Through art, I have gained the ability to analyze the natural world as someone who seeks beauty in my surroundings. In being able to search for and find the beauty of the natural world through art, I have developed a deeper sense of protection for its resources.
Interpreting Nature through Art and the Gift of Beauty
When I first think about art in nature interpretation, I admit that I don't immediately see myself as someone who can interpret the natural world through an artistic lens. Yet, this week's content made me reconsider the ways in which I already engage with nature through creative means. Whether it’s capturing a sunrise or snapping a photo of the first snowfall, these moments of beauty are small but significant acts of interpretation, my attempt to share an emotional connection with nature.
Art, as I’ve learned, plays a crucial role in how people perceive and connect with the environment. The Group of Seven’s iconic landscapes have shaped how many Canadians view their country’s natural beauty, highlighting the power art has in crafting national and personal identity. As nature interpreters, we don't need to be professional artists to use the arts as a medium for interpretation. Instead, we can use a different kind of art, weather by photography, sketching, or even storytelling. These can be tools to evoke emotional responses and help others see the environment in new ways.
Photo by Sophia Wegener, 2024.
Art enables us to interpret what words alone cannot capture. This connects with what Michael Burtch said about how art invokes emotional responses. Just as art museums now interpret exhibits through visual and emotional connections. We must consider how nature’s beauty resonates with people differently on an emotional level. Interpretation through art offers us a way to communicate themes like conservation, sustainability, and beauty in ways that facts and data alone might not convey.
When it comes to interpreting the "gift of beauty" in nature, I think it’s about more than just recognizing the aesthetic aspects of the natural world. It’s about understanding the deeper emotional and intellectual responses that beauty can provoke. Beauty in nature is not just visual, it’s multi-sensory. It can be the feeling of crisp mountain air, the sound of leaves crunching underfoot, or the smell of rain-soaked earth. These moments are gifts because they remind us of the world’s inherent value, independent of human intervention.
Photo by Sophia Wegener, 2024.
Freeman Tilden’s perspective on interpretation is presenting as a whole rather than focusing on just a part. This resonates deeply with me here. The experience of nature’s beauty shouldn’t be reduced to just one scene or sensation rather, it’s about conveying the interconnectedness of it all. A hike through the forest, for example, isn't just a walk, it's an experience that brings together sight, sound, and movement in a way that creates a holistic appreciation of the environment. It’s our job as interpreters to capture that
Photo by Sophia Wegener, 2024.
In thinking about how art can be used in nature interpretation, it’s important not to overlook the role of risk in planning these experiences. Just as artists take creative risks in their work, nature interpreters must also balance the risk of introducing complex themes with the need for safety and preparedness. This was highlighted in the Lemon Theory, which reminds us that accidents often result from a chain of overlooked details. In our role, we must be mindful of not only the creative risks we take but also the physical and emotional safety of our audience.
Planning for nature interpretation means being prepared for the unexpected. As we consider using art to evoke emotional connections with nature, we must also think about how to mitigate potential risks. Whether it’s ensuring our programs are accessible to all or being mindful of how different audiences perceive risk in outdoor environments.
I may not see myself as an artist, but I have realized that I don’t need to be. By using art to interpret the beauty of nature, I can help others connect to the environment in ways that go beyond words. Nature’s beauty is a gift, one that we can all interpret differently, whether through a photograph or a shared moment in the wilderness. The challenge for us, as nature interpreters, is to use these tools wisely. Balancing creative risks with thoughtful planning to ensure that everyone can experience the gift of nature’s beauty.
This is a very insightful post! I agree that I don’t often consider myself someone who can interpret nature through art, but was able to understand interpretation through art better following this week’s unit and readings. I enjoyed your point about how taking photos of nature are acts of interpretation. I am someone who loves to capture moments of beauty on my phone, and before this week I did not understand this significant act. It made me consider why am I taking these photos- to look back on and remember experiences, as well as share with others.
I also really liked your point about the Group of Seven’s landscape paintings helping create a sense of pride for Canadians. This is an incredible point as it encourages viewers of the art to develop a deeper appreciation for Canada’s natural world and in turn, want to protect it. In my time in Algonquin Park, visitor centres, gift shops, and museums are full of art by (or inspired by) the Group of Seven. People buy prints and books of these landscapes often, even I left with a mug picturing famous art! This exemplifies how important art is to the people who visit and appreciate nature in Canada, as well as can be used as a tool to encourage funds that can be allocated to conservation and resource protection.
I also wanted to touch on your point about nature being more than just visual. While a painting, for example, can help one appreciate visual beauty, the gift of beauty can be further experienced through the many different senses nature can cater to.
Your mention of the risk involved in introducing complex themes was also very powerful, and I loved the parallel you drew between the risk interpreters must consider when venturing out into nature, and when presenting art to an audience.
This post was incredibly insightful and a privilege to read!
Unit 3 Blog Post: Privilege and its Role Within Nature Interpretation
Privilege, in terms of my working definition of it, is an advantage or immunity that can be exclusive to groups or individuals depending on the degree of it. Sometimes, privilege isn't simply assigned to individuals or groups due to physicality; it can also pertain to the state of mind and even decisions (regardless of whether made before or after your birth). Privilege can be pictured as an umbrella given to everyone at birth, but the type of umbrella and its quality depends on physical and mental factors such as your race, health/body functions and mental health. Additionally, the condition of everyone's umbrella depends on your parents and the decisions they made until you were born. Eventually, it will also depend on your own choices in life. An umbrella works well for this hypothetical example because, like privilege, an umbrella is a tool in life that can help and protect you. In this case, it can protect people from getting wet and possibly sick or even help avoid skin damage from the sun on warmer days. Another great use of one's umbrella is to share it and help those who unfortunately were not handed the same cards in life.
Focusing more on nature interpretation, before beginning this course, if you had asked me if I thought privilege played a role in nature interpretation, I wouldn't have given it too much thought and said no. But after reading the blogs and textbook chapters from the past weeks, as well as the unit lessons we've done so far, I've had a more open mind in seeing all the different perspectives of nature interpretation and how each person experiences it. After analyzing my past experiences with nature, recalling my visits to other countries and cities, plus thinking about my education and the extensive knowledge I've gained, all confirmed for me that privilege does play a great role in nature interpretation. As I was reflecting on many blogs from the first unit, many people (including me) mentioned that their families or parents were the ones who offered them a sense of place within nature. Having a close, healthy relationship with those they love and being able to take time off of work and afford to go on many nature trips to share their love for nature through knowledge and guidance is a privilege.
An image I took while on my vacation in Panama, on our way to a boat tour.
Additionally, while I was in Panama this summer visiting family, one of the first things I noticed while travelling around in different neighbourhoods with varying socioeconomic backgrounds, was the difference between available, well-kept green areas. In Costa Del Este (a neighbourhood in Panama City) where my uncle and cousins live, there are large green areas, each having a different specific use for soccer, football, track, biking, hiking, and large parks with beautiful fountains; most of it felt familiar and reminded me of home and the trails I had been on before to some extent. However, this was not the case when we drove by poorer neighbourhoods; many more small houses were occupying the area, and I saw little to no green areas or parks. Even when visiting the local markets in these neighbourhoods, I noticed a lot of litter and thrown garbage down the road in the trees and flowing down rivers; my dad had even spotted a floating fridge getting carried away by the current. This particular visit stuck with me and made me question the injustice of it all leading me to do some research on Panama's state of poverty and education in which I found out that its education is ranked 83 of 144 of the world's worst (Reilly, 2017). Even though there isn't a specific correct way to interpret nature, I strongly believe that it is a privilege in our society to receive enough education and guidance (regardless of whether from an institution or a reputable person) to be able to interpret nature from an outlook of respect and admiration; rather than not thinking twice about how one's trash affects the world.
Once arriving back in Canada, I really took in how privileged I am to live in an area and country with so much greenery and public spaces to be with nature. It also made me realize what a luxury it is to have free time to spend in nature and learn from it rather than having to use that time to work to provide for your family and yourself.
Source:
Reilly, J. (2020, July 17). Rich country, poor people: Life on the rural Panamanian coast - ICWA. Institute of Current World Affairs. https://www.icwa.org/rich-country-poor-people-panama/
Hey, Amanda! I really resonated with your definition of privilege. Your use of an umbrella as an analogy for privilege was beautiful. Some materials keep you fully dry, while others let the water reach you. If we had an umbrella made of the best material and noticed a friend getting wet under theirs, it would be natural to offer to cover them with ours too. Your explanation perfectly illustrates how one can use their privilege to help others experience as much protection and opportunity as it can provide.
I also feel as though before the information presented in this unit, I wouldn’t have correlated nature interpretation and privilege. Your point about the privilege of having a close enough relationship with family that they offer you a sense of place in nature struck a chord with me. My appreciation for the natural world and all of the wonderful experiences it has given me are a direct result of a loving father who was determined to share these experiences with his family. I can’t help but feel ignorant for not recognizing this privilege as the gift that it is sooner.
Your experience in Panama was also very relatable. I think it is hard to truly grasp the differences of privilege in the context of nature interpretation until seeing it in front of you. Being faced with the reality that not everyone has the means to experience and learn about nature is difficult, but allows people to check their privilege and develop a deeper appreciation for the access they have that is often taken for granted.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this post and it opened up my eyes to some different ways of thinking- thank you, Amanda!
Unit 03 Blog Post: What role does “privilege” play in nature interpretation?
A photo of an exhibit at the Visitor Centre in Algonquin Park in which information is provided in French and English only.
When I think of privilege, many things come to mind. Privilege comes in many shapes and sizes, and may or may not be visible to those around you. My working definition of privilege is the aspects of self that allow you to move through certain areas of your life with ease.
Consider skin colour for example. Things that may seem simple to me as a native English speaker in Canada, may be extremely challenging and frustrating to someone who does not speak English fluently. Furthermore, a person with a severe physical disability may need to put extra consideration into their plans to ensure where they want to go is accessible. I, as someone who does not have a severe physical disability, do not think twice about this in my day-to-day life. Considering these examples and the many other challenges people face, I return to my working definition of privilege. I am privileged in the sense that I move through most aspects of my life with an ease that many do not.
When I consider the role privilege plays in nature interpretation, I think back to my many trips to Algonquin Park, which I mentioned in an earlier blog post. Almost every time we enter the park, we stop at the Visitor Centre to look at the extravagant taxidermy displays of wildlife and read about the animals on their associated displays that I have read hundreds of times. Over the years of returning there with my family, I noticed a growing population of non-English speaking visitors. I am honestly embarrassed to admit that it took me so long to consider the fact that all the displays are in English or French, which highlights my privilege as an English speaker in Canada. While the park seems to be attracting visitors of all backgrounds, this idea of camping in pristine provincial parks being somewhat exclusive is perpetuated by this lack of inclusivity when it comes to the actual interpretation.
I also attended the Algonquin Art Centre during my most recent trip and was starkly aware of the amount of steps required to enter the building. I believe this speaks to the assumption that people who seek outdoor experiences are “able-bodied”, and that is who is visiting the park. In reality, I think we all know that is not the case…nature is for everyone. However, someone who may require alternative ways of entering this building is prevented from exploring significant pieces of the history of the park.
In both of these instances, I once again call back to my definition of privilege. I am privileged in that my visit to each of these places was catered to English-speaking people who do not live with a physical disability. The ease in which all should be able to experience and learn about nature needs to be extended to all and to achieve that, interpreters need to better consider that not all visitors have the privileges to experience nature the same way.
Unit 02 Blog Post: My Ideal Role of Environmental Interpreter
This is me and some other amazing volunteers bottle-feeding baby squirrels in preparation for their release at a wildlife rehabilitation and education centre!
As an interpreter of nature, my ideal role would be in wildlife rehabilitation and education. I dream of being an answer to so many questions- where can I take this bird that flew into my window? I found a baby squirrel alone in the road, what should I do with it? I am a huge proponent of treating nature and all things living in it with the utmost respect, and I believe that the destruction caused by human life and urban development needs to be rectified. Where was once their home, now lays a road with dangerous vehicles passing by every day. So, who is looking out for the creatures in which it affects? As a result of this, while I do think working with wildlife anywhere would be fascinating, I think it is important to focus these efforts in relatively upcoming urban areas where they may be most needed. My ideal role as a nature interpreter would be to not only care for and rehabilitate injured/displaced wildlife, but also to educate the public on this matter.
I spent a summer a few years ago volunteering at a wildlife rehabilitation and education centre in Southwestern Ontario, and it was incredible to see. Not only did they provide medical care for the animals in need, but they were also greatly involved in their community. What I found most compelling about that organization was how large the education component was for a wide variety of audiences. With this in mind, I believe that the skills needed for this role go beyond that of mending, feeding, and releasing wildlife, and largely include effective communication and awareness for the audience. Articulating the mission of wildlife rehabilitation to both children and adults is a major factor. Children who learn to care for such causes will grow up with a respect for nature conservation, which is crucial to invoke in the coming generations. Allowing the children to see the animals in person seemed to be a very effective tool in their inclination to care and be engaged in the information provided. As a visual learner myself, I can definitely see the value in seeing something in person to truly understand, so I would make this element a priority. Through this excitement, children may ask their parents to take them to these events/education sessions and they then become aware of the cause as well. While adults also enjoy getting to see examples of the animals they are assisting, I believe that communicating the message and work of wildlife rehabilitation in their local area also aids in creating a sense of community. They are now aware of the work being done in their own backyard to save their own backyard! This creates a symbiotic relationship between the rehabilitators and the residents as they both work towards a common goal. As well, many of these rehabilitation programs rely on donations for funding. In effectively communicating with adults to create collective care for the environment, donations can be generated. So, effectively reaching younger generations is a crucial first step in developing a community that cares deeply about the cause.
