Jon Boss: ENVS 3000 Blog

[emrenvs3000f24]

UNIT 10 BLOG POST

As I develop as a nature interpreter, I am driven by the belief that everyone should have the opportunity to access and appreciate nature, regardless of where they live or the resources available to them. I find profound beauty not only in vast, untouched landscapes but also in the pockets of green in urban spaces, like city parks and community gardens. To me, nature exists wherever there is life, growth, and connection. I believe that helping people see this, showing them that nature is not just a remote wilderness but something within reach, can foster a more inclusive and widespread love for the natural world.

https://wwf.ca/stories/nature-based-cities

I recognize that privilege often dictates who has access to vast natural areas, shaping whose experiences are enriched by nature’s presence. Many people may never see a national park or wilderness reserve, but this doesn’t mean they should miss out on the lessons and joys nature can offer. For those living in cities, for example, urban parks and gardens are opportunities for connection with the outdoors, and it’s my mission to help people see these spaces as valuable, accessible natural areas.

My goal as an interpreter is to bridge this gap, making nature both accessible and relatable. Breaking down barriers means meeting people where they are, whether that’s through guided walks in a city park or providing virtual content like videos and podcasts that bring nature to them. It’s about reshaping the idea of what nature can be and expanding the places where people feel connected to it.

Another pillar of my ethic is the responsibility to protect and restore natural areas. I believe our relationship with nature impacts us deeply, not only for the ecosystem services that sustain human life (like clean air and water) but also for the emotional and spiritual benefits we gain. Nature has a unique power to ground us, to remind us to slow down and reconnect with ourselves and the world around us.

https://runwildmychild.com/sit-spotting-nature-meditation

I see it as my duty to help others understand this, especially the role that conservation plays in preserving these spaces for future generations. Teaching people about the benefits of clean air, water, and biodiversity, and helping them see how protecting nature is a form of self-care, can inspire actions that support both personal well-being and environmental sustainability.

I feel a deep responsibility to convey the importance of nature and conservation in a way that resonates with diverse audiences. This isn’t about simply telling people what they should feel or believe, but rather about opening doors for them to develop their own relationships with nature. Whether it’s taking people on guided hikes, leading them in reflective activities, or creating accessible content, I strive to be a resource and a guide.

For those who may be less able to explore natural spaces on their own, perhaps due to physical limitations or other barriers, I’m committed to finding alternative ways for them to experience nature. This might involve creating content that’s accessible to all, like podcasts, social media stories, or even documentary-style videos that showcase the beauty and resilience of nature. By bringing nature to people in these ways, I hope to inspire them to seek their own outdoor experiences when possible.

I am passionate about getting out into nature as often as I can, fishing, camping and hiking are all big parts of my life. I find that  physically interfacing with nature is one of the best ways to manage the stress of university life. There’s something about being in the woods, away from deadlines and to-do lists, that allows me to reset. The rhythm of nature, with its slower pace and its reminders of resilience, teaches me to be patient and trust in life’s cycles. This personal experience gives me a sense of responsibility to share this source of calm and balance with others.

Whether it’s taking a quick study break in my backyard or spending an entire day fishing on a remote lake, nature has a way of bringing clarity and peace that I think everyone deserves to experience. And as an interpreter, I’m in a unique position to make this possible for people from all backgrounds.

From my personal experience I believe that hands on, immersive experiences are the most effective way for me to connect with people. I feel as though guiding individuals and groups in natural settings would be most suited to my abilities. In these face-to-face settings, there’s an energy that comes from shared discovery, from spotting an unexpected animal or seeing the beauty of a plant up close.

https://www.skilouise.com/explore-summer/guided-hikes

However, I also know that not everyone can join these in-person experiences. For these audiences, creating digital content is essential, and easier than ever before. I am drawn to developing social media posts, podcasts, and videos that can spark curiosity and encourage people to explore on their own. I want to help them feel connected to nature, even if that connection is happening from a screen.

As I continue to grow in this field, I’m committed to being adaptable in my approach. Everyone comes to nature with different perspectives, experiences, and needs. For some, a short walk in a city park might be enough to find peace, while others may need the challenge of a backcountry trail. As a nature interpreter, it’s my job to honor these differences, provide multiple ways of connecting, and celebrate nature in all its forms and locations.

Through every method I use, whether it’s guiding hikes, sharing stories online, or simply helping others see nature as an essential part of life, I hope to foster a love for nature that feels personal and possible for everyone. And ultimately, I believe that by making nature accessible and meaningful to people of all backgrounds, I’m contributing to a future where more people will care about protecting the world around them.

[jrbenvs3000f24]

Hey Evan,

I love the way you talk about nature reminding us to slow down. As our population continues to migrate to urban centers, it's getting harder to find time and space to connect with nature. I've always found spending time in nature to be a great way to maintain or regain perspective on what's important. As you say: It's extremely important that interpretive programs reach people living in urban settings, that's what being really accessible means. Often, the people who can benefit the most from taking time to unwind in nature, are the people least likely to be able to access spaces to do it. I admire your passion for ensuring interpretation is accessible.

There's truly something about being out in the woods that triggers a cathartic sense of the scale of our world: it makes problems seem smaller. I shared a quote in one of my earlier blogs that I love, that's relevant here: "A weird, lovely, fantastic object out of nature like Delicate Arch has the curious ability to remind us - like rock and sunlight and wind and wildflowers - that out there is a different world, older and greater and deeper by far than ours, a world which sustains the little world of man as sea and sky surround and sustain a ship.” (Edward Abbey, Desert Solitaire).

I love that quote, I think it speaks to what you're getting at here: nature as a way to gain perspective in life. And I agree with you that the drive to protect and conserve nature needs to start from a connection with it, a love for it.

Great post, thanks for sharing!

[ntenvs3000f24]

Unit 10 Blog Post

In reflecting on the journey of being a nature interpreter, I find myself drawn to the question of “why”? Why I choose to share the outdoors with others, why this field resonates so deeply with me, and why I believe the work I do has lasting value. My connection to nature has always been personal, filled with small, cherished moments that shaped my understanding of the world and my place within it. Growing up I found wonder and curiosity in natural spaces, and loved movies like The Odd Life of Timothy Green. This movie was one of the first pieces that showed me nature is both calming and inspiring and interesting and filled with so many different aspects to it. Now as I take on a role where I introduce others to this same world, I feel that it is a great responsibility to foster the same sense of wonder and connection in the next generation. 

My belief in nature’s ability to nurture resilience, curiosity, and empathy forms the foundation of my ethic as an environmental interpreter. I believe that nature is a place where we can learn vital life skills including patience, adaptability, and interconnectedness. In the course material, John Rodenburg’s observation that environmental education can feel like attempting to “Stop a rushing river armed only with a teaspoon” resonates with me. Yet, like him, I continue the work because I believe that each encounter with nature can create a lasting impact. Every interaction, no matter how small, can begin a journey of respect and stewardship. I believe that nature interpretation goes beyond sharing facts, instead it's about creating meaningful experiences that reach the heart and mind. 

As an interpreter, I feel a profound responsibility to create a safe space for children and adults to engage with nature. This includes not just physical safety but also emotional safety, where curiosity can flourish without judgment. I see myself as a connection between people and the environment, helping others recognize their place and the importance of nature itself. My goal is to foster connections that help people feel both a sense of responsibility and belonging within the natural world. Rodenburg’s approach of introducing children to nature through stories, such as his students’ experience with the killdeer, is a method I find especially powerful. Stories personalize the experience, helping people to feel connected, empathy and responsibility towards nature. 

My approach to nature interpretation is rooted in authenticity and personal connection. I prefer letting experiences unfold naturally, encouraging discovery rather than leading it. Rodenburg’s advice to let children “own” their discoveries resonates deeply with me. I aim to frame my teaching around curiosity and open-ended exploration, asking questions like “What do you see or hear?” or “What do you think lives here?” rather than presenting immediate answers. This method allows for individual journeys and fosters that previous sense of wonder that I previously mentioned! These thoughts then get carried further. 

I also believe in the power of microenvironments! These small, contained spaces where detailed exploration is possible always brings such joy to young faces. This could be a fallen log, a cluster of flowers, or even a single tree. By focusing on these smaller worlds, I can help people see that nature is accessible and meaningful, even in the smallest forms. My approach is one of appreciation, inviting others to recognize the beauty and value in what initially seems ordinary. 

Ultimately, I hope my work as an interpreter inspires others to see nature not as a general abstract concept, but as an intimate, cherished part of their lives. As I've shared throughout these blog posts, nature has become a profoundly beautiful and meaningful presence in my own life. Recently, I’ve had the joy of witnessing my baby cousins begin their journey with nature, discovering the world outside with wide-eyed curiosity. Watching them grow alongside nature has been a wonderful experience. Though they are so young and may not fully grasp everything they encounter, their excitement and fascination are undeniable. Their parents and family, including myself, have woven nature into their daily routines, from gardening together, to exploring outdoors, fostering a foundation of love and appreciation for the environment. It’s inspiring to see these small yet powerful steps that are helping to nurture the next generation of nature lovers and stewards.

My personal “So What?” is rooted in the belief that fostering a deep appreciation for nature can lead to long-lasting environmental stewardship. By helping others build meaningful relationships with nature, I contribute to a community of individuals who are young but, hopefully, will act with empathy and respect toward the planet. My goal is not to create perfect environmentalists but to push them to care and be curious. In this work, I strive to bring my values of patience and openness to each encounter, believing that these traits will resonate and encourage others to develop their own morals toward the natural world. As we continue this journey, I hope each small act of interpretation contributes to a larger movement, one that builds a society that deeply understands, respects, and cherishes its relationship with nature. A society that sees the environment not just as a backdrop for life, but as a living, breathing part of it, a place we’re truly a part of, not just a place we occupy. 

I wanted to add a picture that made me appreciate our world even more to end off my blog:

[jrbenvs3000f24]

Hi Nithira,

I really enjoyed your post this week and your dog is adorable! Firstly I loved your discussion of nature as a place to develop vital life skills. I think that's a really interesting perspective, I wonder if there's been research done on resilience and self-sufficiency in adults based on early access to nature. I'm thinking about the reasons we're told math education is important: It's not simply that we want students to be good with numbers. Math education is about a way of thinking, teaching learners to be good problem solvers. It's one of the reasons math skills are viewed as a critical component of education frameworks. In the same way, I wonder if we might think of outdoor education as not important solely for its immediate knowledge, but for developing critical skills, like resilience as you say.

I also loved your focus on small-scale environmental change as being part of a larger whole. Sometimes it can feel like trying to stop a river with a teaspoon, and it can be disheartening. But a focus on your personal connection, on changing what you have the ability to change, seems a great application of personal responsibility when it comes to caring for the environment.

As we read this week, developing a connection with nature early is so important, as you've seen in your cousins. Children really are so ready to discover, so eager to learn. If we're all born that way, then as interpreters, our goal has to be to foster that curiosity so that more of us can maintain it in our adult life.

Fantastic post, enjoyed reading it, all the best!

[jrbenvs3000f24]

Week 10: Environmental Ethics and Personal Responsibility

I’ve managed to navigate the majority of this blog with as little politically-charged commentary as possible. It’s no meager feat of restraint for me, I’ve always been opinionated and politically engaged, and have become intensely interested recently in environmental activism and politics. I think for the most part, this was a worthwhile endeavor: allowing me to focus on the content each week with a clear head. However it seems this final reflection is a great place to expound my thoughts on the topic throughout the course, the underlying ethics I see in approaches to nature interpretation, and the personal responsibility I feel to interpret accurately and with purpose. 

One of the primary things I’ve been reflecting on throughout the material is the inseparability of nature interpretation and its effects on environmental activism. As we’ve learned: interpreting nature does not simply mean regurgitating facts (though facts are a critical component), it’s about the experience of the visitor and how we can make it meaningful. As Tilden’s second principle of interpretation states: “Information, as such, is not interpretation. Interpretation is revelation based upon information. But they are entirely different things. However, all interpretation includes information.” (Beck et al., 2018, p. 84).

 Facts can be easily forgotten unless they matter. Nature interpretation informs human relationships with nature, their beliefs. Beliefs inform individual action, and individual actions inform political movements. As we read this week, helping children develop a relationship with nature early is paramount in tackling the multitude of environmental crises we currently face (Martin, 2019). 

I’ve spent some time reading as much as I can about the development of various environmental movements and their origins in an attempt to understand where we’ve been and where we’re headed. The Sierra Club and Just Stop Oil are movements with more than a century between their respective foundings, and vast differences in their approaches. It’s clear that the coming decades are going to require significant political activism if there is any hope of tackling climate change and our extinction crisis. It is also becoming clear to me that modern environmental activism has some problems.

Like a lot of successful social movements, modern environmentalism seems to start from passion and outrage. Passion for protecting the earth, and outrage at the systems that have allowed environmental degradation to reach its current boiling point (pun intended). But unlike other successful social movements, I think too often, it stops there. How else could one interpret “Just Stop Oil” as a concept? It is a clear oversimplification of a major global crisis, and an enormously complex one. Like it or not, the world currently runs on oil, and the world is not simply going to stop having power. It is a fantasy to believe otherwise, this is not a serious policy suggestion. Though I suppose “transition away from fossil fuels responsibly by providing economic incentives to promote green energy development” doesn’t have the same ring.

The problem with social movements like this is that it’s so easy to be angry and find problems, and really difficult to be constructive and find solutions. Climate change is not going to be solved by gluing our hands to runways or throwing paint on renaissance artwork. Outrage and passion is very useful in motivating social change, but it is not the mechanism itself. We need real policy proposals, and to be sure, there are groups fighting the good fight on this front. But I fear the modern brand of environmentalism capturing a lot of young people serves only to focus their attention on their anger and frustration at the problem, not to channel their energy in a meaningful way. Greta Thunberg, eloquent though she may be, is not a climate scientist, engineer, or lawyer. Outrage alone is not enough. 

Change requires positive action and hard work, and this principle is at the root of my personal environmental ethic. As an interpreter, my primary goal therefore is not to engender outrage, but serious consideration and deeper understanding. I’ve been reflecting on what that means in light of my personal standpoint, abilities and talents. I’m a web developer with a significant amount of experience building web applications. As I explained in my week 1 post, taking this course was part of a potential career change for me. In the process of this course I’ve reflected significantly on who I am as an interpreter, and what I can offer. As we explored, technology is going to be an important part of interpretive programs indefinitely, and I’ve been wondering how my technical ability might inform my ability to interpret to a wide audience.

Which brings me back to Tilden’s second principle of interpretation, and the line I’ve been considering specifically: “revelation based on information” (Beck et al., 2018, p. 84). I think one of the largest hurdles to a lot of social progress in 2024 is misinformation. If interpretation is revelation based on information - the information comes first. It isn’t the end goal of an interpretive program, it is a requirement for it. The problem of online misinformation is an enormous one to be sure, clearly not limited in scope to environmental causes. But its effect on environmentalism is clear in the beliefs of laypeople. A 2023 poll by the Pew Research Center found that just 54% of Americans believe that climate change is a major threat to the country’s well being (Tyson et al., 2023). This is, despite the clear and resounding message from climate science that it certainly is. That is a failure of information.

This is the issue I’ve been thinking about substantially as I leave this course. I’m not sure what form it takes yet, but I’m interested in starting a platform to combat misinformation with verifiable visualizations of data. My goal is interpretive. To show data in an interesting, accessible, digestible way to increase public knowledge on topics of dire importance, like the threats facing our environment. In this way, I can exercise my personal responsibility to move beyond outrage, beyond frustration - into the realm of solutions.

References

Beck, L., Cable, T.T., Knudson, D.M. (2018). Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage: For a Better World. Sagamore Venture

Martin, J. (2019). Why Environmental Educators Shouldn’t Give Up Hope. Clearing Magazine. https://clearingmagazine.org/archives/14300

Tyson, A., Funk, C., Kennedy, B., (2023). What the data says about Americans’ views of climate change. Pew Research Center. https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2023/08/09/what-the-data-says-about-americans-views-of-climate-change/

[lkenvs3000semester]

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.

[jrbenvs3000f24]

Hi Lucy,

Great post! You do an excellent job of painting a picture in your opening paragraph. As we’ve learned: interpretation is about creating a meaningful experience, and your description here goes a long way to letting the reader imagine the scenario. 

I knew that plants were able to send chemical signals to each other within an ecosystem, but I had never heard the term “wood wide web”, that’s a cool way to capture the idea. It really is as fascinating as it is mysterious that plants can have entire conversations under the ground as we walk through a forest. Conveying that idea by suggesting they’re “whispering secrets” was a really unique way to describe it.

What I really like about your post is that you bring things back to a local setting. It’s an interesting feature of this week’s prompt: I think when you think of “amazing” nature facts, we have a tendency to associate that with “exotic”, “remote”, or“wild”. That view of the beauty of nature as being far away and unattainable can prevent us from connecting in meaningful ways with nature right outside our door. But your post highlights how nature can be fascinating anywhere which I thought was a really important stance to take. I have great memories of High Park as well! As a kid I remember seeing A Midsummer Night’s Dream there one summer, and so it's a place that’s always had a sense of magic for me as well, I think because I associate it with that play.

[jrbenvs3000f24]

Week 9: Truly Amazing Natural Phenomena

One of the most incredible natural phenomena I’m aware of I learned about in a viral post. Truthfully I don’t remember where I first heard it or what the source was, only that I was immediately skeptical. With many incredible tales about nature we hear about online, their sources and authenticity can be murky at best. It’s an issue I’ve found myself thinking about a lot this week in considering the ways nature can amaze and astound us, and the role technology plays in nature interpretation.

As we read this week, technology has some enormous benefits to offer us in nature interpretation: accessibility of information, connection to remote places and people, access to experts and resources (Beck et al., 2018). It also presents us with challenges, and while our textbook does a good job of describing many of these (effects on memory, interpersonal connection for example), I think it fails to adequately describe the dangers of misinformation in nature interpretation.

When Covid lockdowns were first put in place, I can remember my news feed being flooded with images of “nature healing itself”. Deer wandering through the streets, goats lounging in city parks. The assertion was that with less cars on the road, and everybody staying home, animals were free to roam once more. It was a nice thought, and to some extent - animal behaviour did change (Tandon, 2020), but a lot of these photos were fake, or entirely misattributed for a nice, heart-warming story. 

Which is why when I first read about the hermit crab house exchange, I assumed it was another instance of this. But nature really is more amazing than we can easily believe. Hermit crabs live in discarded shells of other crustaceans. They evolved without shells, nature’s squatters. As they grow, they often outgrow their found shells. Groups of hermit crabs will gather and form an actual organized line by size. They each leave their shells in an orderly queue, in order to trade-up. They take their new shells in order of largest to smallest, each waiting their turn to acquire their fancy new house (Osorno et al., 1998).

It really is one of the most incredible facts about animal behaviour I had heard, and it has the same ring of an uplifting, feel-good story. Luckily, this one is absolutely true and has been both studied and recorded. Humans love stories, and we especially love stories with an uplifting moral message. In this case: the crabs appear to be cooperating, though in reality this is an in-grained evolutionary behaviour with a perfectly reasonable explanation.

It may be tempting to see the fake images around covid lockdowns as innocent and harmless fiction. But in nature interpretation, the job of the interpreter is not only to provide a unique and meaningful experience, but to interpret nature as it is, not as we’d like to see it. Misinformation, even when it doesn’t lead directly to harmful beliefs, can erode trust and cause misconceptions about nature. And when the natural world is full of amazing phenomena, there’s no reason to exaggerate for effect: nature gives us plenty of wonderful material. 

Beck, L., Cable, T.T., Knudson, D.M. (2018). Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage: For a Better World. Sagamore Venture. 

Osorno, J., Fernández-Casillas, L., Rodrı́guez-Juárez, C. (1998). Are hermit crabs looking for light and large shells?: evidence from natural and field induced shell exchanges. Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology, 222(1-2), 163-173. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0022-0981(97)00155-X

Tandon, A. (2020). Why do we keep falling for fake news about animals and what can go wrong? Mongabay. https://india.mongabay.com/2020/04/why-do-we-keep-falling-for-fake-news-about-animals-and-what-can-go-wrong/

[ofenvs3000semester]

Blog 7

If nature is art, and music can be considered a medium of art, then surely nature can be considered a source of music! From the rhythmic noise of water crashing and receding on the ocean’s shore, to the melodic calls of creatures of many species, many elements that we consider important parts of music (such as pitch and frequency, rhythm, even) are also found in nature. Some of it is from abiotic factors, like the former example, and this rhythm comes from a multitude of forces of nature working together in harmony, not unlike a band working together with a multitude of instruments to play a song. A song of nature! Where there’s rhythm there’s music. And that rhythm can be practical too- Think of my second example- the melodic calls of many species. The noises they use to communicate, are they not adjacent to music in a way? Like how music can communicate a message, or how interpretation can share a story about the natural world around us, these animals use it to communicate an important warning, challenge, or have another meaning. 

The second question did stump me a bit, but gave me an idea. I play a lot of video games, and found that different instruments were often used to convey different environments. Flutes and violins for peaceful forests, steel drums for a gorgeous beach, or oboe and numerous other wind instruments for a dry desert. In a way, using instruments to convey the “vibe” of a region isn’t too different from how interpretation tries to introduce, familiarize, and wow an audience in regards to their natural setting. This is even better if they use instruments/music traditionally played by cultures native there. Often this music is even inspired by nature, and amplifying these voices and their understanding of nature is another benefit of sharing music!

As for the final question, There are a few songs that bring me back to nature. One is “Riptide” by Vance Joy, which I remember from my time in BC for my co-op. I had a lot of free time, and one good memory I had was being on the breezy beach with friends, one of whom had a guitar. She played and sung that song- and I have fond memories of lying in the sand just listening. Many of my other musical memories were from BC, as my entire time there was spent surrounded by nature. “Spaceman” by the Killers comes to mind as well. Another song that comes to mind, albeit a random one, is the theme song from Plants Vs. Zombies, a game I’d often play at the cottage when I was a kid. The game and its songs hold a special place in my heart, and so does the time I spent in nature with the songs stuck in my head!

[jrbenvs3000f24]

Hi Owen,

Great Post! I loved your discussion of how a specific song can evoke a memory and take you back to a place and time. It's fascinating: there are parts of my life I don't even know I remember that can be triggered by a specific song. I find they can also trigger powerful emotions. If I listened to a particular song when I felt a certain way that has a way of sticking around, and listening can bring back the feeling. There are lots of studies indicating that people suffering from Alzheimer's and Dementia are able to retain these kinds of connections long after their memory has started to go. My wife's grandmother was able to play the piano incredibly well long after she didn't recognize names anymore.

As somebody who also loved video games I thought that was a really interesting connection as well! One game that game to mind for me from your description was Stardew Valley. A beautifully illustrated and peaceful indie game, the music is a huge part of what makes the game special. The way the music captures the changing of the seasons in that game is fantastic. The upbeat hopeful spring, the soft lullaby in summer, progressing to more simple and lonely sounds as the year gets colder. It does a great job of creating the environment for the game.

Thought your post was really interesting!

Jon

[jrbenvs3000f24]

Week 7: Nature Interpretation Through Music

I learned recently about the case of Humphrey the humpback whale. In 1985, during his migration from Mexico up to the North Pacific, a male humpback whale mistakenly passed under the Golden Gate Bridge and into San Francisco Bay. As the river became narrower and shallower Humphrey was disoriented and unable to find his way back out, his evolutionary instincts telling him that he had to keep heading north. Over the course of several weeks he became the subject of major media attention. Every scientist and naturalist, amateur environmentalist, activist, lawyer, and even the military - had some method to try to coax Humphrey out of the bay and back to the ocean. None of them worked, and the whale was growing sickly and discoloured from the reduced salinity of the river.

Until a researcher had the idea to use acoustic whale social sounds played on underwater speakers from a boat in the channel to lure Humphrey out of the bay. It was an operation that required various researchers and recordings, and the use of a navy ship. By all accounts the whale reacted immediately, turning on a dime and following the musical lure out of the bay and back to the safety of the ocean. The predisposition to musical communication found in humans is clearly not unique amongst the animal kingdom, music can be found in nature itself. And the existence of similar musical structures in whale songs shows that this is truly music, not simply a conversation in a language we don’t understand. There is structure and pitch involved.

Inversely, nature interpretation has existed in music as long as music itself. Different human cultures have expressed it in different ways, but music as a form of nature appreciation has existed at least for 50,000+ years (Gray, P.M., 2001). If our goal as nature interpretation in the 21st century is to reach and engage our visitors/listeners, then music is an invaluable tool. In the age of social media, harnessing attention is no easy feat. Music in a video can capture the imagination quickly. A certain song can have the power to evoke powerful emotions and connections.

One such song for me has always been Saltwater Joys. It’s my Grandmother’s favourite, and one she invariably asks myself and my siblings to play at every family gathering much to our dismay. And although we all hate having to perform, we can’t deny we all love the song itself. Her reaction to it is clear: it brings her back, her eyes instantly well up. It’s a beautiful song about where she grew up: Newfoundland, and the way it describes the natural setting has an emotional effect. It’s a song I’ve grown to love over the years and always makes me think of Newfoundland and my Grandmother.

References

Gray, P.M., Krause, B., Atema, J., Payne, R., Krumhansl, C., Baptista, L. (2001). The Music of Nature and the Nature of Music. Science 291(5501).

[hcenvs3000f24]

Unit 6 Blog Post

In 2022, I sat in a reconstructed train at the Wagah Border, separating Pakistan and the northern Indian state of Punjab. I was travelling on a simulated journey of the Punjab Mail from Firozepur, Punjab to Lahore, Pakistan in 1911. That train ride symbolized more than just a historical interpretation experience. It was a passage through time, connecting two places that were once united but are now separated by the partition of India and Pakistan. The simulation allowed me to experience a moment when this region was one, linked by culture, trade, and people - before history divided it.

Edward Hyams’ idea that “integrity entails the keeping together of the parts of any whole” speaks directly to this experience. When historical events scatter the parts of a story or a place, we lose the full picture. Hyams emphasizes we must preserve memory and knowledge of past elements to maintain integrity. He challenges the notion that the past is irrelevant, comparing it to thinking that a train station only exists while our train is in it. Just because we have passed through does not mean it ceases to exist - it was there before we arrived and will remain long after. Hyams’ metaphor illustrates that our relationship with the past is not just a brief or disconnected moment. Instead, the past forms a larger continuity that directly informs our present and future. My experience on the train may seem like a fleeting moment, but it connects me to a past that is alive in my own family, heritage, and cultural roots in Punjab.

As I sat on that train, I realized that I was part of an effort to preserve the memory of a unified region, a whole that political and social events have long since fractured. The journey between Ferozepur and Lahore is no longer seamless, but this simulation served as a reminder that the integrity of the past can endure through memory and preservation. It is a way to honour the past while acknowledging the changes history, time, and shifting landscapes have imposed.

As interpreters, we are responsible for preserving what has come before. Whether historical or natural interpretation, we must share the stories of what they once were before they were altered: human development, climate change, or political boundaries. Like the history of Punjab, these natural spaces must be remembered and protected, ensuring that their integrity is not forgotten. The changes that occur over time do not erase the past but challenge us to recognize and preserve it.

The journey through this historic route was a powerful reminder that history and nature are ongoing stories shaped by the past but still evolving. As interpreters, we are entrusted with remembering and sharing these stories so that the integrity of the whole - the landscapes, cultures, and memories- remains intact for future generations. The past should never be erased or forgotten; it should be learned from, guiding how we live and protect both our history and the natural world in the present and future.

(Photos I took of the inside of the train simulation and Wagah Border.)

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Hi Harleen,

What an interesting way to view this quote, I thought your relating Hyam's quote to your own experience was a really awesome way to write this post. Remembering a past where this train ride represented a unified region is a fascinating way to frame the direct influence history can have on our way of thinking about important issues. It's also an interesting way to interpret Hyam's meaning of "integrity" in this quote, in this case, actual physical continuity of the region.

I loved that you brought up our world's current political struggles and the importance of historical stories. Climate change as a concept makes no sense outside of history. Something can only "change" relative to what it once was, and so understanding the history of our climate is not only useful but absolutely necessary in determining how we protect its future.

Culture works the same way. Of course culture shifts and changes with each generation, that's natural. Only by taking time to appreciate and understand historical roots of cultural practices can we ensure we preserve them. When you take a train ride like this one it becomes clear that current political struggles aren't only solvable, there is good reason for hope. A fantastic post that really made me think!

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Week 6: Nature Interpretation Through History

As we have learned, nature interpretation is not simply about regurgitating facts. While one could state facts about the natural world that may be perfectly correct, and even interesting - the goal of the interpreter is just that: to interpret. An interpreter’s job is to offer their visitor a meaningful experience. The narrative, the story of what happened here, is paramount in developing a connection to a place. In this sense, interpreters are often storytellers: weaving together the current experience of a place with the senses, and the past perception of its significance. Edward Hyams said:

“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)

It may be tempting to reduce this quote into a simple adage like “Those who don’t understand history are doomed to repeat it”. And certainly that sentiment is here, but I think he’s saying something a bit more nuanced. I think it is firstly, a statement about inherent value. Let’s say I’m walking through a beautiful natural landscape and I stop by an outcropping of rocks with a particularly interesting formation. The striations are swirled, carved out in an intricate pattern winding their way down the side of a hill. 

What value do these rocks have? In a practical sense, very little. But they tell a story. I may look closely at that rock wall and find tiny fossilized invertebrates appearing at specific levels in the formation. What does that mean? The picture of a place’s natural history is like a puzzle to be solved: we can learn a lot by examining the natural world. I think we can apply what Hyams means with the above quote: although a given object may not hold obvious intrinsic merit, together, the natural world forms a historical archive, a library. And so preserving its integrity preserves our understanding of history.

This relates directly to the concept discussed in our textbook of “Authenticity”. Value of an object is in many cases perceived rather than real. Think of a priceless painting. Even if you had the world’s greatest art forgery that was perfect in every detail down to the last brush stroke, the original would still be priceless, and the forgery would still be worthless. Even if the replica were exact, two identical physical things can have vastly different perceived value. It shows how much humans care about authenticity. In interpretation: authentic experiences are paramount if our goal is to make visitors care and connect with a place.

One of the places highest on my bucket list to visit is the Galapagos Islands. A fascinating biology lesson and a beautiful scenic nature experience in one. What’s so interesting about the Galapagos isn’t obvious by simply looking at the tortoises on the beach (though tortoises are certainly interesting in their own right). What makes the experience truly incredible is the history: the understanding of the development of the islands: why and how these tortoises have evolved differently to their siblings on neighboring islands. The railway stations through which our train has passed are essential to examine if we want a full picture of where our train has been, and indeed - where it is headed.

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Unit 5 blog

Growing up in Barbados, an island known for its natural beauty, I was always drawn to the environment around me. From the turquoise waters that seemed to stretch endlessly into the horizon to the lush greenery of sugar cane fields, mangroves, and gardens, Barbados is a place where nature envelops you. As a child, I remember spending hours on the beach, captivated by the rhythmic ebb and flow of the waves, collecting seashells, and curiously observing the tide pools for small crabs and fish. My love for the environment started here, but as I grew, so did my fascination with the science behind it all.

The warm, tropical climate and the island’s diverse ecosystems provided a perfect backdrop for a young mind eager to explore. School lessons often included field trips to places like Welchman Hall Gully, where we learned about the native plant species that populated our island, or Harrison’s Cave, a limestone wonder where I first marveled at the geological processes that had shaped this underground world. It wasn’t just the beauty that interested me; it was the why and how behind these formations. Why did the coral reefs around the island look the way they did? How did the trade winds affect the weather patterns that brought us cooling rain showers? These questions sparked a deep curiosity in me, one that would lead me to pursue the science behind nature.

Barbados, though small in size, is remarkably biodiverse. Growing up, I would often hear about efforts to protect our reefs, which, I later learned, were essential to both our environment and economy. The coral reefs acted as a barrier, protecting the island from strong ocean currents and storms, but they were also home to countless species of fish and marine life. Unfortunately, I also became aware of the threats these ecosystems faced, such as coral bleaching, caused by rising sea temperatures, and the pollution from human activity that affected both land and sea. My concern for the environment soon evolved into a deeper interest in understanding environmental science, particularly the impact of climate change on small island nations like Barbados.

In school, I found myself drawn to subjects like biology and chemistry, where I learned about ecosystems, biodiversity, and the chemistry of the atmosphere. I started to understand how interconnected everything was—from the smallest microorganisms to the larger climate systems that regulate the Earth’s temperature. The science behind photosynthesis fascinated me; the fact that plants, which I had admired for their beauty, were quietly working to produce oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide, playing a critical role in the balance of life on Earth, felt almost magical.

As I grew older, I became more involved in local environmental initiatives. I joined beach cleanups, participated in tree-planting projects, and became a part of youth groups focused on environmental conservation. Through these activities, I met like-minded individuals who shared my passion for the environment and the desire to protect it for future generations. I also realized that while Barbados is a small island, the environmental issues we face are part of a much larger global problem. The rising sea levels that threaten our coastal communities are a result of global climate change, driven by greenhouse gas emissions from countries far beyond our shores.

This realization pushed me to consider the broader implications of environmental science. I wanted to understand not just the local impacts, but the global ones as well. This led me to pursue studies in environmental science, focusing on areas like climate change, sustainability, and conservation. The more I learned, the more I realized how critical it is for all of us to take action, no matter where we live. Barbados, like many island nations, is on the frontlines of climate change, and it’s up to us, as stewards of the planet, to protect and preserve our environment.

Looking back on my journey, I see how growing up in such a naturally rich and diverse place shaped my interests and career path. Barbados taught me to appreciate the beauty of nature but also instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility to understand and protect it. Today, I continue to explore the science behind the environment, driven by the same curiosity and passion that began in my childhood.

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Hi Mauricia,

I loved your post, you have a really beautiful way of describing where you grew up. As somebody who has never been to Barbados, your description of its natural beauty certainly has it climbing up my list of places to visit! I think to some extent, as children, we all start with that natural curiosity you discuss: We’re all eager to know more, constantly asking ‘why?’ whenever we experience something new and interesting. 

I’ve been reflecting on why that attitude doesn’t carry over as readily into adulthood for most people. At some point along the journey to adulthood, many people seem to lose that natural curiosity that you’ve been able to maintain. I think you’re absolutely right that growing up in a place with such readily available natural beauty plays a role. I also wonder if education systems serve to discourage unbridled curiosity in favor of structure.

Population trends are increasingly pushing people out of remote, rural areas, and into denser urban settings. With more and more children growing up in cities, it feels like that scientific curiosity is being lost faster and faster with each generation. I think modern technology also does us a disservice here, capturing our interest far too easily and dispelling most curiosity. Why do the hard work of hiking out to see something for yourself when pictures are already on instagram? Why spend time watching a bird to understand its behaviour when you could look it up on Wikipedia? 

Your post really made me think, and I thought it was very well-written. Stay curious!

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Week 5: Nature Interpretation Through Science

I was glad this week to have the opportunity to decide on a topic for ourselves, especially when studying nature interpretation through science. Scientific inquiry has always been the lens I most enjoy employing when viewing the natural world. From a young age, as any parent can tell you, we are all predisposed to asking “why?” whenever observing any natural phenomenon for the first time. This natural childlike curiosity is the basis for the scientific method, and I think, one of the most beautiful and profound ways of understanding nature.

I think this idea is counter-intuitive to some people, who see the natural world in the same way they see a magic trick. It’s interesting because it's mysterious, and to reveal the underlying mechanisms would dispel some of its beauty. For some people, hearing a lecture about ornithology might seem a perfectly good way to ruin a peaceful afternoon of bird watching. As we’ve learned, people learn in different ways, and every individual experiences nature differently. For some, understanding nature may not be about a scientific understanding of its workings, but about a meaningful connection.

In general, when picturing a scientific approach to nature interpretation we would tend to associate this with the field of biology. After all, nature is full of living things, the domain of the biologist. For me, one of the most fascinating ways to interpret our planet is at the cosmological level, through astronomy. Though it may seem strange to study our planet by looking pointedly away from it, a consideration of our universe I think offers a profound appreciation for our incredible earth. If we stop for a moment to really consider the vast emptiness around us. The cold, unforgiving landscape of space is the starkest contrast against our home planet. A home teeming with life and natural history, the only place that we know that can support not just us, but every living thing we’ve ever discovered.

My favorite piece of nature interpretation of all time is a discussion of this contrast, of our place in the universe. It’s one you’ve likely heard before, but if you haven’t I’ll embed it here and I can’t implore you enough to spend 3:26 listening to the late great Carl Sagan. This excerpt is from The Pale Blue Dot, a book well worth reading in its entirety. But this is by far the most famous portion. Narrated by Sagan himself, it still gives me goosebumps every time I listen. 

In 1990, Sagan was working for NASA on the Voyager mission. Voyager 1 had finished its exploration of the outer reaches of our solar system and was passing out of Neptune’s orbit. Sagan was the one to first propose taking one final image of our solar system, looking back towards the earth. It was risky, the instrumentation on the craft is sensitive to solar radiation, it risked damaging equipment. Instructions sent to the craft were slow and complicated to transmit, it would be expensive. And it held no objective scientific merit. It wouldn’t tell us anything new, there was no discovery to be made. It's goal was interpretive. It was, and remains to this day, the furthest distance photograph ever taken of our planet. It was taken as a form of nature interpretation: to show humans an accurate depiction of our planet’s place in the cosmos.

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Blog Post #4: Interpreting Nature through Art & "The Gift of Beauty"

Interpreting nature through art is a form of self-expression to help connect myself to the natural world. Our own experiences, feelings and perspectives can influence these interpretive experiences to make it more personal and relatable. I believe that each one of us has a unique perspective on nature, and art is something that allows us to communicate our own special connections while also expressing our admiration and respect for nature. 

Personally, I am someone who best interprets nature through art and music, which is something I learned about myself specifically when I visited the Van Gogh Exhibit in Toronto a few years ago. At this experience, I was able to fully immerse myself in Van Gogh’s beautiful masterpieces, which allowed me to connect with the natural world in a whole new way. The iconic paintings I had only seen in books or online had now come to life and were projected onto huge screens surrounding me, accompanied by music that enhanced the emotions evoked by the art. There were no words, only the visuals and music, which allowed me to interpret everything I was experiencing in my own way. I particularly remember being captivated by the immersive experience of his painting “Almond Blossoms,” where this calm, uplifting melody played as the petals floated in the air and onto the branches. The petals seemed to find their way back home to the branches, and I saw that as a symbol of peace, hope, and self-discovery. From this, I realized how art could transport me beyond words, allowing me to experience the beauty of nature in a more personal and emotional way. Additionally, as a nature interpreter, I also believe my role is not to enforce a single meaning on others’ perspectives, but to reflect my emotions and feelings in a way that encourages others to explore their own personal connections to nature. It’s all about giving people the freedom to engage with nature on their own terms, allowing them to interpret its beauty in their own ways. By sharing my perspective, I would hope to pique others’ interest and inspire them to learn how nature speaks to them, leading to deeper, more personal relationships with the environment. 

My sister & I enjoying the Van Gogh Exhibit (2021).

I interpret the “gift of beauty” as nature’s way of encouraging us to pause and connect with the world around us - to go beyond its aesthetic appeal. Yes, those vast mountain ranges and oceans are amazing, but we can also appreciate the beauty in small, everyday details, like the way sunlight filters through the trees, or seeing two birds flying with each other through the sky. This beauty, to me, serves as a reminder that everything in life is interconnected, and that we would not be here without the balance and harmony of the natural world. I believe that through art, we can enhance these simple moments, and capture them in ways to encourage others to see and appreciate the “gift of beauty” in nature. Whether through painting, music, writing, or theatre, art is a way of preserving and sharing these experiences, raising awareness of the importance of protecting natural environments, and appreciating our beautiful world.

Snippet of the "Almond Blossoms" Experience!

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Hi Emma,

Great post! I love that you discussed the ability to recognize and appreciate natural beauty in our everyday lives. That's something I've been trying to focus on recently as well. It really follows from our last unit on privilege: not everybody has the ability, be it physical economic or otherwise, to visit the places we'd typically associate with natural beauty, places we would consider "Wilderness".

In a previous class I took we read an article called "The Trouble with Wilderness", and your post made me think of it. The central thesis was: in labelling untouched, unadulterated nature as "Wilderness", we give it almost a mystical meaning. Wilderness by definition then has to be somewhere removed from human interaction. It creates a sense of loss and nostalgia as humans continue to interact and change the natural landscape.

But humans are part of the environment. Traditional indigenous knowledge contravenes this idea of us as being separable from the natural world. We inevitably interact with nature every day, does that make it any less beautiful or natural? Learning to appreciate the "gift of beauty" in the nature that surrounds us everyday allows us more opportunities to connect and understand nature without needing to find "Wilderness".

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Week 4: Interpretation Through Art

When I was in grade seven my parents took my sister and I to the McMichael Art Gallery in Vaughan, Ontario. My class was doing an art unit on the Group of Seven, and with so many of the originals so close by, it was a great opportunity for me to experience their art first hand. I had never been very interested (and certainly not talented) in art class, but the beautiful depictions of the Canadian landscape spoke to me in a way I hadn’t really experienced before. I remember our next art class we were tasked with recreating one of the Group of Seven’s original landscapes and I chose Lawren Harris’ Pic Island, and although it wasn’t great - it was the most effort I had ever put into an art project and I was really proud of it. I’ve always wished I were a more competent artist, and it's unfortunately a talent I’ve always struggled with. 

I recently came across this article about a couple who had made it their life’s mission to find the original landscapes that inspired the Group of Seven’s work. They’ve spent nearly 50 years road tripping across the country and identifying specific places immortalized in their paintings. They take photos for comparison and have recently published a documentary, which I thought was a fascinating way to interpret nature.

Although I’ve never been much of an artist, I do come from a family of photographers. My Dad worked as a photographer through his younger years, and continues to sell his photos online in retirement. I like to think some of that is genetic, though my siblings seem to have more of the gene than myself. Still, I’ve been incredibly privileged to visit a lot of places, and though my instinct is always to enjoy the view with my unaided eye, I’ve been trying more in recent years to take photos as I remember. 

Westernbrook Pond, Gros Morne National Park, NL.

The Yukon River through the Tombstones, Tombstone Park, YT.

These photos are more a testament to the beautiful places they were taken than they are to any skill on my part. Though that’s really what nature interpretation is about I suppose: I want to convey the beauty of a place without getting in the way of the viewer’s experience. As we’ve discussed, nature interpretation is about conveying something meaningful. That experience is created in the mind of the viewer, and isn’t something the interpreter can force.

Antelope Canyon, Navajo Territory, AZ.

Not everybody may be able to visit the world’s great natural monuments, or spend 50 years traversing Canada to find its most beautiful hidden gems. But art allows us to interpret nature for others who aren’t present. Capturing these places in art and photographs preserves them not only for current viewers, but for those who may come after some of these places have been lost.

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Unit 03 Blog Post

If I were to define privilege, I would say that privilege is one or many advantages that a particular person or group are afforded that others are not. Privilege can come from a number of things, for example a person's economic class, their race, their gender, etc. There are certain opportunities and advantages that people of privilege will benefit from, sometimes without even knowing it. It is important that we reflect on each of our own "invisible backpacks" and how that impacts our lives and the lives of those around us. Reflecting on the opportunities given or not given to each of us as individuals, as a result of our unique backgrounds (and not because of our own achievements or exploits), is an important part of keeping oneself accountable and aware of societal inequities.

In the context of nature interpretation, people of privilege are more likely to have the opportunity to attend natural sites to learn and experience nature. Privilege plays an important part in how easy or difficult it might be to access environmental interpretation programs or activities. Knowing this, it is important that nature interpreters understand how privilege might impact our conversations, our decisions, and how to accommodate diverse audiences.

Many minority groups are faced with challenges and barriers that make it more difficult to visit natural sites and participate in interpretive programs. These barriers can include physical difficulties, such as a physical disability or limited mobility in elderly people. As nature interpreters, it is important to provide equal access and ease of use to the programs or interpretive activities you are running, regardless of a participant's physical capabilities.

When I personally reflect on the many experiences I've had exploring nature, it is important to remember and appreciate that I am privileged to be a healthy, young individual who has little to no difficulty going on hikes and traversing unstable terrain. Not everyone is able to engage in perilous hikes or difficult terrains, but it is essential that nature interpretation activities remain accessible and that nature interpreters accommodate each and every individual's needs.

There are also social barriers that can make less privileged groups shy away, feel unwelcome, or feel incapable of participating in nature programs. Cultural and communication barriers can make visiting nature sites more difficult for minority groups and non-English speakers. When I think back and recall many nature sites I have visited, all of the signage, brochures, maps, or informative plaques were almost always written in English. It would be extremely difficult and discouraging to attempt to learn about nature in a language I didn't understand. Because of this, it is important that nature interpreters make an effort to invite and include cultural minorities and that national parks or nature sites incorporate various languages and translations, and/or hire bilingual interpreters.

Furthermore, economic barriers, such as the costs of transportation and travel, entrance fees, and lodging associated with attending natural parks to enjoy nature interpretation is a limiting factor for many minority groups. Unfortunately, because of these barriers, nature exploration and interpretive activities can be seen as a luxury activity that is only available to wealthier demographics. Nature interpreters and programmers should combat economic barriers associated with transportation by offering their own shuttles or transports to their facilities. In my own previous blogs, I have mentioned various places I have travelled to experience nature, which is an enormous privilege I am granted from having parents with the time and wealth to invest in such activities. I am well aware that having a cottage and travelling often is not a universal or common experience, and I couldn't be more grateful for how that has enriched my life.

To conclude, having discussed in previous blog posts how important my relationship with nature is to my mental health, I believe that breaking down the various barriers stopping minority and less-privileged groups from accessing nature is extremely important. Every human being deserves to easily access, enjoy, and benefit from nature -- it is not something that should be restricted to certain people of privilege. By creating solutions and tackling barriers, we can hopefully make nature more inclusive, and reduce the impact that privilege has on who can or can't enjoy what the environment has to offer.

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Hi Alyssa,

Loved your post, it was very well-written! What made it stand out to me was your inclusion of concrete suggestions for each section. You walked through various ways that privilege might affect access to nature interpretation opportunities, and then gave a suggestion on the interpreter's part to minimize it, which I thought was a great way to get beyond simply thinking about privilege, to actually doing something about it. 

I think it's also important that you mentioned,  “Not everyone is able to engage in perilous hikes or difficult terrains.” Acknowledging accessibility concerns is about more than creating a single program that works for everyone. We’ve already discussed how visitors are ‘sovereign’ with their own standpoints, their own desired outcome from each experience. They also have their own abilities and expectations. Some visitors want an experience where they will be challenged physically, others may not. 

Only by considering each individual’s experience can we really ensure that interpretive programs are properly suited to our groups. Thinking of the St. John’s canoe trip disaster, it's clear that the interpreters in that case were basing their trip plan on their own desired outcome, an experience they envisioned for their visitors - but not one they were adequately prepared for. 

I’ve thought a lot about my grandmother through this unit, who was an avid camper and outdoor enthusiast her whole life. She loves to birdwatch, but rarely has opportunities now beyond her own windows. Designing interpretive programs that are accessible expands their reach, and allows people who otherwise might not have the opportunity, to enjoy nature in their way.

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Week 3: Privilege in Interpretation

I’ve heard it said that “sunsets are free”. I’ve always loved that saying for its intended meaning: a call to enjoy simple things. Money isn’t everything, take time to notice the beauty of the natural world. And of course it's true in the literal sense, but its intention is clearly a statement on where we perceive value. In considering the role privilege plays in nature interpretation this week, I’ve thought a lot about that quote and its implication. And as tends to happen when overthinking any adage, I’ve become somewhat less convinced of its profundity.

Take this sunset as an example. This is the north shore of Prince Edward Island on a beautiful Canada Day this past summer. I’ve never been a great photographer so this doesn’t do it justice but suffice to say: a phenomenal sunset. And standing there to watch was certainly free, but the privilege inherent in being there was certainly not. If privilege describes an advantage afforded to an individual that others may not enjoy, I’ve had many, and some that very directly led to me standing in a place to watch this sunset.

First of all, I grew up in Canada, so there are no barriers to reaching this place by car. To get to the place I’m standing involves rocks, stairs, and a considerable amount of sand: obstacles that require an able-body to navigate. To be within walking distance requires a campsite at Prince Edward Island National Park. Staying in the park requires camping equipment of some sort, and probably a car at the very least. On top of the cost of driving this far, I needed the free time to do so. That required a remote job that offered me the flexibility, the kind that typically requires a university education. And enjoyment of the sunset is predicated on having basic human needs met: access to health care, a full stomach, a warm place to sleep. I might not care so much about the sunset without those. “Sunsets are free” seems a slight mischaracterization, at least of this photo.

I’ve never liked the common understanding of the modern concept of privilege as it is generally applied. It’s not that I don’t recognize I have it: I absolutely do. It’s just that in most cases, I don’t think evoking it is useful to a conversation. Applying ‘privilege’ to a group or a stranger misses so much about them that may not be readily available. For it to be useful, the concept needs to be considered by an individual, otherwise too much is missed. 

In nature interpretation, the concept of treating a visitor as “sovereign” captures this well. What’s important is that each visitor has an enriching experience. Each sovereign visitor observes nature, and hears information through their own lens. “Interpretation” is a two-sided endeavor. So far we’ve been considering the role of the interpreter, but just as important, is the standpoint of the visitor receiving the information. For every attempt by an interpreter to explain nature or evoke a connection with a place, there is a recipient whose unique identity is important to the outcome of the experience.

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2: Teaching Learners (and my ideal interpreter role)

My ideal nature interpretation role would involve making environmental education more accessible to youth by working as an outdoor education teacher. Natural spaces can often be intimidating to those who are unfamiliar with them. I want to show youth (and their caregivers) practical ways to stay safe in nature, and the benefits of interacting with the natural spaces around us.

I also want to instill the importance of environmental protection and education. Oftentimes, environmental education is not privileged in school curriculum and brushed to the side. Given student’s limited time in school and the difficulty of teaching important subjects such as math and English, this is understandable (although still unfortunate.) I want to use the limited time given to environmental education in a way that will help students appreciate nature, instead of just absorbing some knowledge about it.

I believe that tactile, in-person experiences are the best way to achieve this goal, as it allows learners to connect with the world around them on a personal level. I think that the principle of spark described in our textbook (Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage for a Better World, page 85) encompasses this approach well; you need to connect your subject to learner’s personal lives in order to inspire them.

This ideal role would involve a wide range of interpretative activities. For example, I could help younger students learn about the diversity of plants that grow in their schoolyard, take older students on short hikes, and arrange canoe trips for high schoolers. Many students (whether due to physical, economical or social barriers) lack opportunities to engage with the natural world around them outside of school activities such as these. Overall, my goal would be to make nature accessible and empower students to take an interest in the natural world around them. In this role, I would likely be working for a schoolboard, or an educational non-profit.

A role like this one would require a wide range of skills. I would need to be highly adaptable to accommodate my learners and their needs, have a good working knowledge of outdoor safety and skills and be very familiar with the requirements of the school curriculum. Working with children and youth requires a lot of soft skill building and experience. Like any good nature interpreter, I would also need insightful knowledge of the ecosystems and natural features of the surrounding area.

On a practical level, this would mean earning a degree from the Ontario College of Teachers, being certified in Wilderness First Aid, keeping up a good amount of fitness and expanding my own environmental learning by attending workshops and certifications.

Working in this role would also mean learning how to teach a wide variety of learning styles. Although I am an auditory learner, I know that value in providing visual examples and exploratory learning that helps everyone engage with nature and learning.

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Hi Illyria,

Awesome blog post, I really enjoyed reading it! It sounds like you would be an excellent teacher. I had written in my blog post that the best educators were always the teachers who were passionate about their subjects and made that passion apparent to their students. They weren't great teachers simply because I understood the material, but because I cared about it.

I agree with you that environmental education is not nearly prevalent enough in school curriculum, generally relegated to one short unit in the science textbook. This has real-world consequences, like the inability to properly evaluate scientific claims about the environment or understand natural processes. In addition, most students in Canada live in urban and suburban landscapes , and a lack of education on the environment just serves to alienate them further from nature.

Increasingly, young students are spending more of their time plugged-in. The thought of getting out for a hike or spending time watching the birds is a hard sell for most teenagers, and to be fair - it probably would have been for me as well in my teenage years. But passionate educators are the best way to break that spell. As with all things, learning to appreciate and enjoy nature is a habit. Interpreters have the power to show students that nature can be fascinating, and offers a cathartic experience not possible with concrete and metal.

Jon

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Week 2: My Ideal Role as an Interpreter

I had the opportunity recently to read Edward Abbey’s Desert Solitaire. It’s rough around the edges, out-of-touch, and more than a little anarchist, but Edward Abbey also has an incredible prose when discussing nature. The book describes his time as the lone park ranger at Arches National Monument in Southern Utah. His passion and reverence for the park is undeniable, and his love of wilderness in general shines through. This quote I thought was particularly poetic:

“A weird, lovely, fantastic object out of nature like Delicate Arch has the curious ability to remind us - like rock and sunlight and wind and wildflowers - that out there is a different world, older and greater and deeper by far than ours, a world which sustains the little world of man as sea and sky surround and sustain a ship.” (Edward Abbey, Desert Solitaire).

I read Desert Solitaire while traveling through Utah and Arizona this spring, and Abbey’s descriptions of the desert are the closest thing I’ve seen to capturing how beautiful the landscape is. This quote to me is an inspiring piece of nature interpretation. It made me think of my favourite teachers in school: they weren’t incredible teachers simply because they helped me understand the material. They were passionate about it, they made me care about the material.

Watchman Trail, Zion National Park, Utah (April 2024).

Recently, I’ve been considering a career change into the field of environmental conservation. I’ve been driven by my love of the outdoors, and the desire to see nature conserved for future generations. I’m never more at ease than I am in the backcountry, staring into a fire. My ideal interpretive role would allow me to spend more time outdoors, getting my hands dirty with the hard work of conservation, while allowing me to help people care about what they see. 

Over the past few years, driven in large part by the isolation experienced during covid lockdowns, the number of people camping has skyrocketed. Trailer and RV sales are up, and for anybody who's been a longtime camper, the effect is obvious when trying to book a site, both in surging prices and seasonal availability. It would be easy to see this, as Abbey likely would have, as a net negative. Crowded parks, inexperienced campers trudging on sensitive flora, or leaving garbage where they shouldn’t. The examples on social media of misguided and downright moronic interactions with wildlife are plentiful. But what we want is for a greater portion of the population to connect with nature, to see why we love it so much, see what makes it special. In that light, the surge of people getting outside to experience our parks can only be positive.

Fire through the Parks Canada Logo, Bruce Peninsula National Park (October 2023).

Which is why nature interpretation is becoming increasingly important. Like our best teachers, good interpreters need to help people care about what’s around them. As an interpreter, my ideal role would be grounded in this. A role in parks, specifically as a ranger/park warden has always appealed to me greatly for these reasons. We are lucky enough to live in Canada, a country with some of the most beautiful natural wilderness anywhere in the world. Protecting and conserving it, while making sure everyone has the opportunity to enjoy it would be my ideal interpretation role. Specifically which park is less important to me, as Canada has so many fantastic ones, though my favourite parks I've been to are Gros Morne and Kluane.