Michela's Nature Interpretation Blog

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Last BLOG

As I think about everything I've learned in this course about becoming a nature interpreter, I realize it's changed me a lot. It's not just academically but ethically and personally. It's also about how I see my role in talking about and protecting the environment. It's made me really think about how I can take all this classroom learning and use it out in the real world.

First up, I absolutely love nature. That's the big reason I'm doing this class. I've always been amazed by the outdoors, and this course has made me want to share that amazement with others even more. Like from the textbook by Beck, Cable et al, (2018) mentioned, sharing what you're passionate about can really make a difference. It's not just about dumping facts on people; it's about making them see why nature is so awesome. I want to get people as excited about saving the planet as I am.

Another big thing I've learned is how important it is to make sure everyone feels welcome in nature. The outdoors should be for everyone, no matter what challenges they might face getting out there. We talked a lot about making sure things are accessible for everyone, whether that means having braille for people who can't see well or making sure paths are wheelchair friendly. Nature doesn't leave anyone out, and neither should we. I strongly believe that nature isn't just for the few. It's for everyone, no matter their background or abilities. This means I've got to think creatively to make sure everyone can join in

I also realized that learning about nature is never done. The world is always changing, and there's always something new to discover. I want to keep exploring and finding out new things, and I want to help others do the same. It's like what Rodenburg (2019) said: being curious and always ready to learn more is super important.

After taking this class it makes me feel like it's my job to make sure that when I share nature, I do it in a way that everyone can enjoy. This means thinking about different people's needs and making sure they are welcomed and accessible to all. Beyond just pointing out cool plants or animals, I see it as my responsibility to educate people about the challenges our environment faces and inspire them to be part of the solution. It's about stirring up a sense of wonder and a desire to make a positive impact.

I've also spent a lot of time thinking about how different people connect with nature. Some might like to learn by doing things with their hands, while others might enjoy listening to music inspired by nature or looking at nature art. Stories or history about a place can also make it come alive in a new way for people.

While nature is all about disconnecting from screens, I think technology can be a great tool if used wisely. Things like apps for identifying flora and fauna, or podcasts about nature (which could provide loads of insights by the way!), can enhance the outdoor experience without taking away from the magic of being in the moment.

Building upon that, creating and hosting a podcast as a nature interpreter opened up a whole new world of insights for me, way more than I expected. It wasn't just about sharing cool facts about nature or talking about the outdoors; it became a journey of discovery, connection, and learning that went both ways, between me, my guests, and my listeners. 

For me, as an individual diving into the world of nature interpretation, finding approaches that resonate with my personality and strengths is crucial. A strategy that feels most suitable for me is definitely getting hands on, I love doing things where everyone can actually touch and see stuff up close. Imagine going on a walk and being able to touch the leaves, smell the flowers, or even spot animal tracks. It's like making everyone feel like they're part of the adventure, not just watching from the sidelines.

In a nutshell, my journey as a nature interpreter is guided by my love for the natural world, a commitment to inclusivity and education, and a belief in the power of hands-on learning and storytelling. My mom, who recently passed, always used to say “get outside today”. I will hold on to that saying forever, and definitely do that.

References:

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

Rodenburg, J. (2019). Why environmental educators shouldn’t give up hope. Environmental Literacy. https://clearingmagazine.org/archives/14300.

Cheers!!! -Virginia

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Hey there!

Thank you for sharing your final thoughts on nature interpretation! Your reflections on your evolving role as a nature interpreter are reflective of the significant influence this course has had on your development as a person and as an eager student. 

I resonated with your comment about how this course taught you that when you share nature, you do it in a way that everyone can enjoy. I think that truly was a key point in this course, emphasizing that being an interpreter is really about using your own knowledge to help others learn and create their own opinions. This makes it different then a more traditional education role in the sense that we aren't there to push certain views on our audience, but rather act as a lens to help guide their own thoughts (Beck et al., 2018).

In a way, being a nature interpreter is like being someone's sunset. Just as we learned in the textbook that sunsets are the pinnacle of authenticity in the natural world, nature interpreters aim to provide authentic and heartfelt experiences (Beck et al., 2018). Sunsets are truly amazing, real, and heartfelt. Every evening as the day comes to an end, the sky changes into a kaleidoscope of colors, creating a unique once-in-a-lifetime view that inspires those who get to see it. Similarly, nature interpreters are a means to inspire amazement and awe in their audience. We act as guides, reminding people of the beauty and magnificence of the natural world. And this may not be in the sense of the actual words that we share with people but more so in the way that we deliver them and allow them to find their own beauty in what we say. This sense of awe can have a significant impact on their well-being by fostering greater creativity, perspective, and awareness of the world (Beck et al., 2018). Just as a sunset tends to leave us speechless, nature interpretation seeks to leave a lasting impression, sparking curiosity and appreciation for the natural world. 

As interpreters, if we can make someone see the beauty in things (that may not be as nice as sunsets), we have succeeded. By helping others see the beauty in even the most overlooked aspects of nature, we promote a deeper appreciation for the world around us. Whether it's the intricate patterns of a spider's web or the hidden microbiome on a dead tree, every interaction with nature has the potential to spark curiosity and awe. After everything we have learned, my goal going forward is to illuminate these often-overlooked wonders, revealing the beauty and complexity of the natural world in a way that resonates with others - This is what this class did for me. 

Through this lens, every moment spent in nature becomes an opportunity for discovery and connection, resulting in an amazing sense of belonging in nature.

Beck, L., Cable, T.T., and Knudson, D.M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For a Better World. Sagamore Publishing.

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Unit 10: Personal Ethic in Nature Interpretation

Describe your personal ethic as you develop as a nature interpreter. What beliefs do you bring? What responsibilities do you have? What approaches are most suitable for you as an individual?

As I develop as a nature interpreter, my personal ethic has evolved. The beliefs I bring, the responsibilities I have, and my personal approaches have certainly been shaped after nearly completing this course. 

My personal ethic is rooted in wanting to inspire people to act pro-environmentally. I’ve always known that my purpose is to motivate change toward sustainability. I wish to encourage others to foster a relationship with nature and value it for its innate worth, as I do. I strongly believe that shaping values and attitudes toward nature care, compassion and connection will encourage sustainable practices and facilitate this necessary societal-wide change.

As I graduate from my undergrad and begin my master's at UBC (where I will study K-12 school children’s understanding of and connection to the climate crisis), I will remember important lessons from this course. For one, through ENVS3000, I have learned that knowledge and emotion are powerful tools for promoting personal growth and inspiring action. According to the textbook, a prime objective of a nature interpreter is to “provoke the discovery of personal meaning and forge personal connections with things, places, people and concepts.” (Beck et al., 2018, p. 6). As I develop as a nature interpreter, I will remember that interpretation is always personal. Personalizing programs to consider diverse socio-demographic groups or place is key in interpretation. 

Going into this course, I would have said that knowledge alone can catalyze change. I now believe that knowledge can only take you so far — emotion and connection are key motivators in fostering the development of environmental stewards. But there are other moderators to consider in promoting this change — such as the role of privilege, past experiences and learning styles. 

I have learned that privilege (i.e., an inherent advantage that exists for particular people or groups) plays a significant role in shaping individuals’ experiences of nature (Beck et al., 2018, p. 132). As explained in Chapter 7 of the textbook, specific barriers faced by minority/underprivileged groups can discourage participation in interpretive programs. For this reason, underprivileged groups may have fundamentally different experiences with nature (Beck et al., 2018, p. 133). I recognize the role privilege played in my nature experiences. As a city dweller, I gained nature experience due to certain privileges I possess, and conversely, was privileged to have such experiences. My privilege and past experiences play a significant role in my current connection to nature. Therefore, the role of privilege should not be overlooked when formulating and executing interpretive programs. 

Participants of interpretive programs also possess differential learning styles. In the textbook, we learned that people generally operate within three learning domains — the cognitive domain, the affective domain and the kinesthetic domain (Beck et al., 2018, p. 106). The cognitive domain involves using the rational mind to process information (where intellectual knowledge is held) and interpreters can reach this domain with lecturing or written materials for example (Beck et al., 2018, p. 106). The affective domain relates to learning through feelings and can be reached by expressing attitudes or sentiments (Beck et al., 2018, p. 106). The kinaesthetic domain involves the use of motor skills and can be reached by physical movement or skill development (Beck et al., 2018, p. 106). Employing the use of all three domains will likely enhance the learning experience for all participants. Although there were different learning styles and multiple intelligences communicated in the course content (e.g., verbal, auditory and tactile) (Beck et al., 2018), I felt that the three domains of learning encapsulate what makes interpretive programs stand independent from traditional lecture-style educating … because it is exploratory, active, personal and emotional in addition to intellectual. The learning domains will certainly be a concept I consider in my graduate thesis project. 

I hope to one day serve as a model or mentor to others. At the beginning of the course, I read part of the textbook that stuck with me: the principles and associated gifts (Beck et al., 2018, p. 85). The authors defined 15 “gifts” or guiding principles for interpreters, such as the gift of revelation which states that “the purpose of interpretation goes beyond providing information to reveal deeper meanings and truth”, or the gift of beauty which states “interpretation should instil people the ability, and desire, to sense the beauty in their surroundings” (Beck et al., 2018, p. 85). As I grow as an interpreter I will remember these principles and internalize them. I hope I provide these gifts to those I wish to inspire. In my opinion, a strong mentor helps learners uncover deeper meanings and promote personal growth by providing these gifts. 

As an individual, I believe a dominant strength of mine is my emotional capacity. I have strong values and morals that guide my intentions and actions. Therefore, I believe my approach to interpretation would emphasize valuing nature and communicating why we should want to protect it. I would take a more personalized approach and help others understand what value nature brings to them by allowing for experiential and exploratory learning. 

In a time when socio-ecological issues are worsening, it will become harder to teach children about these issues. I feel the role of environmental grief/anxiety/pessimism will play a large role in the future of interpretation. When the climate has warmed past tipping points, biodiversity loss has reached frightening levels (if they haven’t already) and global conflict increases due to resource scarcity, individuals will feel as if their small actions have minimal purpose or power to create change. Therefore, knowledge surrounding the state of the climate crisis could promote inaction. For this reason, an emotional connection to nature could serve to promote action. We don’t wish to see our loved ones suffer, so if we love and care for nature in the same capacity, this could create the behavioural changes required for sustainability transformations. My personal ethic is rooted in fostering care, compassion and connection to encourage this fundamental transformation.

Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For A Better World. Sagamore Publishing. 

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Hey Alayna,

I really enjoyed reading your final thoughts on nature interpretation! You brought forward a lot of great points that made me think deeper about my own viewpoint of being a nature interpreter. 

It's awesome that you're about to be going on such a unique opportunity to help shape the way the next generation views the environment! 

The importance you place on differential learning styles is a great point that I also mentioned in writing my own post this week. I think this is very important in order to help others to better understand concepts and connect with what they are learning. This can also encourage a broader and more comprehensive view of nature overall. 

This makes me think about what we talked about a few weeks ago, regarding how music can affect nature interpretation, and vice versa. This relationship can be used to help others better understand nature. Specifically, music could be used as a tool to help create associations between certain concepts in nature. For example, think about if we were focusing on the concept of ecosystem resilience. Listeners could be guided through different activities designed to demonstrate how ecosystems can recover from disturbances. To enhance this experience, participants could also listen to music that mirrors the process of recovery and resilience. This could look like a song that starts slow and gentle, representing a healthy ecosystem. Then, the music could gradually build in intensity, symbolizing a disturbance such as a forest fire or flood. If I was a participant in this scenario, I really think this would help me connect what I'm learning to its effects on nature. 

If we look back in history, we can even see that music has been a way that certain people have passed on knowledge. Indigenous Peoples have used music as a “repository of ecological knowledge” (Lepofsky et al., 2020). We can also see this when we think back to our childhood.  If you think about it, there were so many little songs and rhymes that we were taught to help us better understand certain information. 

Overall, whether we use music to directly share knowledge or if we use it as a tool to help others subconsciously make associations, it serves as a powerful way to connect people with nature.

Refrences:

Beck, L., Cable, T.T., and Knudson, D.M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For a Better World. Sagamore Publishing. 

Lepofsky, D., Fernández-Llamazares, A., Recalma-Clutesi, K. (2020). Indigenous song keepers reveal traditional ecological knowledge in music. The Conversation. https://theconversation.com/indigenous-song-keepers-reveal-traditional-ecological-knowedge-in-music-123573

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My Nature Interpretation Journey :)

As I grow as a nature interpreter, my personal philosophy is surrounded around creating a deep respect for the natural world and its intricacies. I believe that this should be extended to all kinds of life, as well as the various cultural viewpoints that influence our knowledge of nature. Conservation plays a crucial role in this philosophy. I see conservation not only as a means to protect and preserve the natural world but also as a way to come together as a collective and show respect for the world that has given us all so much. A large part of conservation is about acknowledging the impact of human actions on the environment and accepting responsibility for maintaining its future health. 

As a nature interpreter, I aim to share these ideas with others, hopefully inspiring them to take action in their own lives to protect and conserve the natural environment that we all enjoy. I believe that by instilling a deep appreciation for nature and encouraging conservation initiatives, we can establish a more sustainable and harmonious relationship between humanity and the environment. A future where we are all educated and passionate about the earth is a great future.

In my Forest biodiversity class, we talk a lot about how a key reason why a lot of conservation practices aren't being done is due to the lack of education in the general public. For example, the media tends to always emphasize the negative effects of forest fires without also mentioning how beneficial they can be for promoting biodiversity and helping build its resilience. Another thing we talked about was Deadwood and how it is the basis for a lot of microhabitats. However, we have been destroying a lot of it due to the “unaesthetic” appearance of it. To me, this just further emphasized the need to ensure that, as an interpreter, I am using my platform to help educate individuals in a way that fosters a passion in them to want to advocate for such things.

How do you feel about this picture?

Looks like a nice forest scene

Looks like a pretty ugly view

Voting ended onMar 31, 2024

As a nature interpreter, I also think that there are a lot of responsibilities that should be upheld in order to properly help others create deep connections to the natural world (Beck et al., 2018). This is because when sharing information with those who may lack it, you hold all the power, in the sense that you are providing them with a lens through which they will view and understand nature going forward (Beck et al., 2018). This responsibility requires a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiration. By presenting information in a clear, persuasive, and friendly manner, interpreters can help promote a deeper awareness and understanding of the natural world, which can evoke a passion for the environment (Beck et al., 2018). This could even result in increased attitudes and behaviours toward conservation.

One key responsibility is to ensure you are respecting your audience's cultural perspectives and beliefs, as well as the culture of the specific area that is being discussed. As different cultures have their own unique relationships with nature, addressing interpretations from various viewpoints can make a big difference in helping others understand and relate to nature.

Another important responsibility is to give people room to form their own understandings of the natural world, regardless of how they may differ from your own. As an interpreter, your role is to guide and facilitate understanding, not to strictly impose your beliefs or interpretations onto others (Beck et al., 2018). A more nuanced and comprehensive understanding of the natural world can be achieved by promoting a conversation that is open and welcoming to all points of view and interpretations.

Over the course of this semester, I have learned that my approach as a nature interpreter is focused not just on memorizing facts and figures; but rather about engaging with the material in a way that has meaning to me as an individual. I've found that methods that include comedy and a less formal setting work really well. Incorporating humour has helped boost my enjoyment and retention of content while also allowing me to connect what I learn to my own life (Beck et al., 2018). The "informal-ness" of this approach allows me to really think about what I’m learning and how I can use real-life situations to deepen my understanding.

In addition to humour and a less strict atmosphere, I also value sharing real-life experiences in the learning process. Real-life experiences can provide valuable insights and perspectives that cannot be gained from textbooks alone. By sharing our experiences, we can learn from one another and gain a deeper understanding of the world around us (Beck et al., 2018). This goes hand-in-hand with another strategy I’ve come to like; encouraging open dialogue with my peers or audience. A discussion-based learning environment encourages active participation and thoughtful contributions from everyone. When this happens, and people talk to one another about a given topic, they share their unique thoughts and opinions, which helps everyone get a better grasp on the subject. This helps to encourage critical thinking. One way that I think discussion-based processes can be especially helpful is in conservation advocacy. Specifically, it can be a powerful way to develop stronger conservation frameworks that incorporate a greater range of perspectives and evidence. 

Overall, a combination of these approaches not only makes learning more enjoyable for me, but also helps to create a welcoming learning environment for others!

References:

Beck, L., Cable, T.T., and Knudson, D.M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For a Better World. Sagamore Publishing.

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Unit 09 - The Amazing Uniqueness of Nature

I think the most amazing thing about nature to me is the fact that every area unique and has its own distinct variables. And I know that there are obviously similarities in specific areas and similar habitats and ecosystems but what I'm really talking about is how there's no complete replication in nature. Every single path that you take will be different from the next. 

I think about this fact quite often actually because growing up in a more rural area I was constantly surrounded by unique areas. I think that living in the city with all its buildings, streets, and other urban developments, can make it easy to view the areas we live in as very standardized and similar to other places. And this makes sense because a lot of buildings are built the exact same, streets are built the exact same, lots is built the exact same. But in nature everything is different. 

This contrast between urban and rural environments often leaves me thinking about how intricate and extensive nature is. It serves as a reminder that our envinroment is made up of many distinct components, all of which add to the wonder and beauty of our world. There are always exciting discoveries to be made, new paths to take, and new viewpoints to acquire—even in seemingly familiar surroundings.

This uniqueness is also what allows for everyone to have their own unique connections and views, encouraging every person to discover, become knowledgeable of, and engage with nature’s wonders (Beck et al., 2018).

Personally, I love going on walks to clear my head and get some fresh air, as I’m sure many of us do. It's amazing how nature can deliver a new experience each time I walk outside. There are always fresh sights, sounds, and smells to explore, even in the same old surroundings. Every step turns into an exploratory adventure and an opportunity to form deep connections with the nature. I think one reason why I’ve always been drawn to nature is due to the fact that it's always changing.

Imagine walking through a luscious green forest, where every turn reveals a new surprise. The trees that surround you are more than just ordinary trees; they tell unique stories, all holding their own responsibilities to their ecosystem. You take in the noises of hidden animals, the brightly coloured petals of blooming flowers, and the intricate patterns of leaves as you walk. Then as you turn the corner, you see a glistening blue lake, peaceful and calm. Every part of this path is fresh and unseen before, leaving you guessing at what may come up next. This is what the uniqueness of nature provides during every outing. Whether it leaves you with good memories or perhaps even some that are not as enjoyable, each experience in nature leaves it's audience with a unique memory of a unique adventure.

While I feel that my explanation of this may not be the most clear explanation, I hope that you were still able to understand the type of feeling I was trying to decribe. Hopefully some of you have experienced this for yourself and can relate to my thoughts.

References:

Beck, L. Cable, T. T. & Knudson, D. M. Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage: For a Better World. Available from: Sagamore Publishing LLC, Sagamore Publishing LLC, 2018.

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Amazing things in nature!! BLOG

When I was trying to think about what to write about this week, I remembered that I created this amazing project in grade 11 about dolphins... Just when you thought that the ocean couldn't get any more captivating and mysterious, let's dive into a revelation that brings us closer to understanding the complex social side of one of the sea's most intelligent animals, dolphins. These beautiful creatures, known for their playful demeanour and remarkable intelligence, share some incredibly human-like with us, they call each other by names. YES, I know, you read that correctly. Dolphins have names for each other, a discovery that not only endears them further in our hearts but also opens up a whole new perspective on animal communication and social dynamics.

Dolphins, these graceful swimmers of the sea, are not just animals; they are storytellers, friends, and individuals with their own unique identities. Imagine a vast, blue world beneath the waves, where light dances through the water and where sounds travel faster and farther than in our air-filled world. Here, in the deep blue, communication is key to survival and social connection. Dolphins, with their sophisticated brains and social structures, have mastered the art of communication in a way that is both complex and profoundly beautiful.

At the core of dolphin social life is their use of distinctive whistles, which scientists have likened to human names. Each dolphin develops its own unique whistle, a signature sound that identifies them to others. This is not just a random noise but a carefully crafted representation of their identity. When a dolphin emits its signature whistle, it's announcing its presence, calling out to friends and family across the watery expanse. And when they hear their "name" called, they respond with an acknowledgment that strengthens social bonds and maintains group cohesion.

But how do scientists know that these whistles are indeed names? Simply through research and observation, scientists have discovered that dolphins use these unique whistles specifically when separated from each other. By recording and playing back these signature sounds, researchers observed dolphins responding to the whistles of their pod members, but not to unfamiliar ones. This indicates not just an understanding of the concept of names, but also an ability to recognize and remember these acoustic labels, a feat that underscores their cognitive sophistication.

This discovery has profound implications. It challenges us to rethink our views on animal intelligence and communication. Dolphins, with their named identities, demonstrate a level of complexity in their interactions that we're only beginning to understand. They remind us that the animal kingdom is full of surprises, full of creatures with rich inner lives and social intricacies that mirror our own in ways we never imagined. Beyond the sheer wonder of this discovery, understanding dolphin communication helps us appreciate the importance of their conservation. These creatures, with their names and friendships, face threats from pollution, fishing nets, and habitat loss. Protecting them means preserving their complex social structures and ensuring that their stories continue to unfold in the oceans' depths.

So, the next time you gaze out at the ocean, remember the unseen conversations happening beneath the surface. Dolphins, with their individual names and vibrant social networks, are not just surviving; they're thriving, communicating, and connecting in ways that continue to astonish and inspire us. Let's keep listening, learning, and advocating for these remarkable creatures, for in their stories, we find threads of our own.

Cheers

-Virginia

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Hey Virginia,

What an interesting look into the lives of dolphins! Their intricate social systems and the fact that they address each other by name are very intriguing to me!

This led me to do some further research and I found that studies have also revealed that dolphins use a vocalizations beyond signature whistles. These include click-based “burst-pulse” sounds, each serving different communicative purposes (Sayigh et al. 2022). Burst-pulse sounds are often used in social contexts, such as while playing or sometimes reuniting with pod members. They can also use click trains which are more so associated with echolocation for navigation and hunting (Sayigh et al. 2022).

In regards to interpretation, I think that how dolphins communicate is very similar to interpretation. This is because, just like how interpretation aims to convey meaningful information and create connections between the audience and the subject, dolphins use their unique whistles to communicate in a way that goes beyond just making noise. They convey meaning, building social bonds, and maintaining a sense of community. Dolphins use their whistles to keep in touch with one another and organize gatherings, which is very similar to how interpreters try to assist their audience to connect with and appreciate the richness of nature.

Overall, I think these new findings on dolphin communication is such a great way to help us appreciate the importance of their conservation. In my Forest biodiversity class we talked about how even though deadwood is so important to ecosystems a lot of the public don't like it because it's not satisfying to the eye. To me this reflects how important it is for the public to be educated in order to want to help conserve and protect our environment. By learning more about dolphins, with their names and friendships, this can help propagate more support to deal threats of pollution and habitat loss. 

References: 

Sayigh, L. S., Janik, V. M., Jensen, F. H., Scott, M. D., Tyack, P. L., & Wells, R. S. (2022). The Sarasota dolphin whistle database: A unique long-term resource for understanding Dolphin Communication. Frontiers in Marine Science, 9. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmars.2022.923046

The Sarasota Dolphin Whistle Database: A unique long-term resource for understanding dolphin communication

Common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) produce individually distinctive signature whistles that are learned early in life and that

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Where is music in nature? Where is nature in music?

Music in nature can be found almost anywhere. While you can’t find full songs, you are able to hear different parts of nature that resemble many aspects of music. This can be anything from a rhythmic patter of raindrops on rooftops, or hearing birds chirping in the morning. Really any sound you hear outside, whether you’re walking on a beach or through a forest can be music in nature. Not all sounds you find outside are soft and melodic though. Sounds like the crashing of waves or thunder during a storm are much larger and harsher sounds that you’ll often be able to hear.

Nature also finds its way into music through a variety of ways. For example, composers often use instruments to imitate the sounds of birdsong or the rustling of leaves in the wind. They may incorporate natural elements like wind chimes, rain sticks, or even recordings of nature sounds directly into their music to create a more immersive experience. Nature's influence on music isn't just limited to its sound, as it's also reflected in the themes and emotions that artists try to create. In this way, nature becomes a source of inspiration for musicians, shaping the melodies, rhythms, and themes of their work.

What song takes you immediately back to a natural landscape.

When I was younger my parents would spend a lot of time playing with my sister and I in our backyard. We often had music playing in the background and my family regularly just cycled through the same CDs. For this reason, there are around 3 CDs worth of music that I would associate with being outside. If I had to pick one song that sticks out to me, it would probably be Share the Land by The Guess Who as this is a song I still listen to now.

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You seem to have a great understanding of the relationship between nature and music. Raindrops pattering or birds tweeting gently are only two great examples of how nature's noises can resemble music.

I totally agree that music combines elements of nature in many ways. I've never thought about how some composers create music that intentionally mimics the sounds of nature or even use direct recordings of it. Thinking of it now, I would love to listen to songs that are made of all the intricate sounds from specific places. That would be so cool!

Your choice of “Land” by The Guess Who as your song that brings you back to nature, makes me think of similar memories I have of when I was younger. I think that particularly when it comes to memories from our early years, music has a way of sticking with us - maybe because they're easier to remember than the actual details of the experience. For me, older music often brings back memories of the songs my dad used to play in the summer while we were outside doing random activities. Or in the winter when we would take breaks from skiidoing and set up a fire. Its amazing how both nature and music can help us to remember each other and the memories we have with them.

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Music <3

Hi again everyone,

This week’s prompt is so simple yet has left me stumped as I try to effectively gather my thoughts and form my opinion. It’s hard to articulate. I think this is because music can have such a strong effect on our thoughts and emotions, it's not exactly logical - more of a feeling I guess. This brings me to my point. I think that nature and music have this incredible connection where they blend perfectly. For example, imagine being in a sunny wooded path. Now picture listening to the natural sounds of a bird song and the wind in the trees. This just feels right to me. It makes the whole imaginary situation seem more real.

Certain songs can also just ‘fit’ with memories of nature. For example, a specific song might remind you of a beautiful sunset you once watched, or a peaceful moment by a lake. It's like the music and the memory of nature become intertwined, enhancing each other while also making the experience more vivid.

I think this connection between music and nature is so powerful because they both speak to something deep inside us. It's difficult to describe, yet they both have the ability to evoke feelings and memories. It's as if they reach a part of our minds that is inconceivable and allow us to simply feel. I think this is why I’ve struggled so much to explain the relationship of nature and music.

But it's not just about memories. Music can also change how we see nature. Imagine a gentle, calming tune. Don't you think this would be effective at amplifying the tranquillity of a bright sunny scenery? Or what about a high-spirited song? This could make a crowded city park feel more vibrant and alive. Now obviously if you were walking down a dark and scary path in a creaking forest, soft upbeat music wouldn't help - it actually might make it scarier, but in general, I think music can amplify our emotions in nature. This goes hand-in-hand with what we learned this week, reflecting how music can influence nature interpretation (Beck et al. 2018). And vice-versa!

When trying to think of a song that immediately brings me back to a natural landscape, the only song I can think of is “Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield. I know what you're thinking - this is not the typical song that reminds most of nature, but I think you’ll get it once I explain. When I hear this song I first think of the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants movie, specifically the scene where Blake Lively is running on the beach listening to this. Then I think of a beautiful beach I once visited when I was younger in Latvija. It brings me such happy and peaceful emotions. The feeling of being free - from worries, from burdens, from everything.

Here's the OG music video:

I tried to add a clip of the scene from the movie but it wouldn't work. So here's the link if anyone's interested: https://www.dailymotion.com/video/xqrrcm

Does anyone else have a more unconventional song that brings them back to nature?

Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: for a better world. Sagamore Venture.

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Learning from Nature's History - Is it too Late?

Our task for this week was to analyze and discuss this quote by Edward Hyams from Chapter 7 of the text:

“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.”

This was a very interesting and thought-provoking quote for me. At first, I got lost in the wording and took each word too seriously. But, by reading one sentence at a time and trying to mentally picture what Hyams was trying to convey, I was able to really connect with his thoughts. Here is my take on it all…

Imagine walking through a forest, surrounded by tall twisting trees and the sounds of birds chirping in the background. Each tree, each leaf, each blade of grass has a story to tell. This story is a history that stretches back centuries.

But the literal age of a tree or the unique shape of a rock doesn't hold any inherent value in nature. The real value is in the integrity of the ecosystem as a whole. Just like the quote suggests, that integrity includes keeping all the individual parts of the whole (ecosystem) together. This is in line with nature interpretation as it involves recognizing the interconnectedness of all living things to appreciate and protect the natural beauty in our world.

But to do so, we must understand its history. Think of it like a train station - it’s more than just a spot for trains to stop, it’s a part of a larger story, filled with various other ‘stops’ and factors. In the same way, a forest is more than just an area of trees. Over the course of thousands, if not millions of years, it has been shaped by the forces of nature, intertwining with other natural phenomena.

When we ignore the past, we only harm the present and future. Just like a train station continues to serve its purpose long after a train has left the station, a location's past influences its present and future. By using our knowledge of the past, we can enhance our understanding of current circumstances and better ensure a sustainable future for our planet.

Recently, my forest biodiversity class was talking about managed forest fires. One of the things that we talked about was how the First Nations used to practice this in order to keep their environment healthy and preserve biodiversity. I bring this up because nowadays, society and especially the media, view forest fires as more of a negative, ignoring the benefits. Due to this, and I'm sure many other things, we haven't been practicing frequent low-intensity fires. Meanwhile, the use of more frequent but controlled fires is what helps to limit the onset of large uncontrollable fires. Instead of listening to what the past has told us about successfully contributing to greater biodiversity, we have ignored the past and caused a mismanagement of our forests, leading to more severe and destructive wildfires.

It's an unfortunate cycle that only ends when we listen to the past and prioritize the well-being of our planet.

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

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The Merit of History

“There is no peculiar merit in ancient things, but there is merit in integrity, and integrity entails the keeping together of the parts of any whole, and if these parts are scattered throughout time, then the maintenance of integrity entails a knowledge, a memory, of ancient things. …. To think, feel or act as though the past is done with, is equivalent to believing that a railway station through which our train has just passed, only existed for as long as our train was in it.” 

~ Edward Hyams

This quote encapsulates the fact that history exists not just in one moment in time as a standalone event but rather, is everlasting and intertwined with everything that came before it and is to come after. The first part of the quote, at face value, tells us that something being old doesn’t mean it is inherently special or should be preserved but it is the context of these things that make them special. As far as my little knowledge on the subject goes, we generally keep a historical site preserved as is not just because it is old but because of the history that took place in the space. When a piece of history is put into context with its other parts in other timeframes, it becomes something of merit. These fragmented bits of history are what come together to form a story. Putting these bits of history together throughout time takes integrity and knowledge to be passed down. To maintain this integrity, all sides of a story must be considered and heard to create an accurate depiction of a series of events. Stories are shaped as they are told from person to person. Details may be lost or embellished either on purpose to frame a story in a different light or subconsciously due to different people’s perception of an event. Many histories only exist through stories and tales that have been passed down through many generations. Thus, it is crucial that we assess a history, for example, not only from the point of view of the oppressor but the victims as well.

The second part of this quote tells us that history is not a stagnant thing, it is forever evolving. A moment in time did not just occur in the moment you experienced it but is meant to live on as a memory or story or an experience for someone else to live through. We can choose to ignore and erase a history that we aren’t happy with but that doesn’t change the fact that it happened and likely had an effect on other people's lives.

In the context of nature interpretation, it is important to consider these things when interpreting nature and its history. To appreciate the present-day appearance and activity of a place, we need to understand the history of how it was formed such as natural disasters or rock formations. Understanding how humans and nature are related gives a space cultural context and may help explain how something came to be in the current environment. This can be done by learning about the cultural practices of a human community and how that community interacted with and perceived their environment. Also, knowing previous climate patterns allows us to extrapolate to find out what future ones will look like and when they will occur. By recognizing the consequences of past events, societies can work to develop more responsible ways to interact with their environment.

Hyams, E. (2015). 7. In The Gifts of Interpretation. Sagamore Publishing.

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Hey Uma,

I agree, that in the context of nature interpretation, this quote reminds us of the importance of understanding the history of the natural world in order to appreciate and protect it. Understanding the ways in which geological and environmental processes have sculpted natural landscapes over time can help us appreciate the beauty of the natural world on a much deeper level.

I think that overall, the significance of knowing and keeping our past alive, on a personal and societal level, is strongly emphasized by this quotation. It serves as a reminder that history is more than just an archive; it is a live narrative that influences how we perceive the world now and in the future. When you think about it, nature is kind of like a living history book. Every rock, every tree, every twist of a river tells a story of its own; of its past. And just like how we cherish ancient artifacts or heirlooms for the stories they hold, understanding the backstory of these natural phenomena allows for a much greater appreciation.

One way I understand this is by looking at a sand dune, for example. Its peaks and turns weren't just randomly placed there, they were sculpted over thousands if not millions of years by various forces of nature. Knowing this makes you look at a mountain in a whole new light, doesn't it? It's not just a mountain anymore; it's an example of the power of natural processes.

But not only should we enjoy nature; we should also take care of it. I’m sure all of us can agree that we’re more likely to protect things that we value, especially when we know how fragile and complicated they are. This is exactly why understanding the complex history of these natural elements is so important.

So, yes, I 100% agree with the idea that understanding the history of the natural world is key to appreciating and protecting it!

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Nature's Nostalgia

Hey everyone! This week is kinda weird because we don't have a prompt. While I usually like having the creative freedom to write what I want, I find myself at a block for what to talk about this week. After reading through some of our peers’ posts, I’ve decided to follow in their direction and share some personal memories I have with nature. I hope you enjoy :) 

When I was younger I grew up in a more rural environment, where my house was surrounded by acres and acres of forest with no neighbours in sight. Due to this, there were various different plant species around my house. One species, in particular, were called Dicentra plants, otherwise referred to as “bleeding hearts”. These plants were very unique in that they truly looked like bleeding hearts falling off the plant. I mentioned this species as they hold a special place in my heart. Anytime I see a picture or have a memory that reminds me of these species, I think back to my childhood when I would truly spend every single day outside enjoying nature. I’m so grateful for this as I know some kids never got to experience this, and instead spent the majority of their childhood inside or relying on other indoor activities as entertainment. And this is not to say that one is better than the other, but I am just really really grateful that I was able to have this upbringing. I'm sharing this memory as it is just one example of how much nature can influence our thoughts and memories. There is no specific reason why this plant species reminds me of summer as a kid; it never played a direct role in any of my core childhood memories. However, its uniqueness automatically brings me back to a time when seeing it was part of my daily life. 

Another example of this is how I associate dinner plate hibiscus’ with my grandmother. Before she passed she gave my mother this beautiful dinner plate hibiscus that had so many bright blooming flowers. While I don't have any specific memories attached to this plant, just the thought of it makes me think of my grandmother. Even just thinking of the smell of the flowers makes me think of happy summer memories with my grandmother. 

I can think of so many other examples of my brain using nature as a tool to remember certain memories or feelings. It really is interesting how our minds do that. I remember learning in a past psychology class that exposure to natural environments has been seen to commonly trigger nostalgic feelings and memories of past experiences, especially those associated with childhood and family. This is such an interesting concept to me because something that might bring back a happy memory or feeling to me, could make someone else think of a really bad time in their life. It's all subjective. But I think that's the point. These memories and connotations that we make are what make us who we are.

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Blog 5: Escaping the Relentless Fly Swarm Adventure

Hello again fellow nature lovers! It is time for another weekly dispensation of natural interpretation. This week I’d like to share a story about a negative encounter with nature. It wasn’t that negative, nothing bad happened, but it felt pretty crazy in the moment.

Last summer, my family took a trip to eastern Canada to visit both Prince Edward Island and Kouchibouguac National Park in New Brunswick. We visited in July, and during our stay in Kouchibouguac (it took a trip to the nature center within the park for our family to learn the correct pronunciation) we decided to rent some bicycles. 

Now, these bikes were proper: they had some really wide fat tires for going on trails and bumps and the like. My brother and I decided to go on a pretty far ride, so we looked at the campground map and determined a pretty decently lengthed trail (I think more than 5 kilometers, but I don’t recall in detail). We headed out, and things were going pretty well. The park is beautiful and I love biking. We stopped at a spot by the water before getting moving again. Eventually, we hit a more remote dirt trail and it was at this point that we began to be swarmed by all sorts of flies. I assume there were black flies, dear flies, which I knew were more prevalent in remote regions.

It wasn’t their existence that surprised me, it was their speed. We started pedaling full speed, I mean full out effort, but we couldn’t escape them. We could only just barely keep ahead of them and maintain enough speed that they couldn’t land on us. But, the moment we stopped biking, if we got tired and slowed our pace a bit, if we stopped for water because it was the afternoon and peak heat of the day, they caught up. 

We decided to veer onto a paved road with the hopes that we could get some more speed on the smooth surface and that there would be less flies than in the forest. This did not work. They maintained speed and kept harassing us. We started looking behind us, and we could visually see a swarm following us, it was the only time I’ve ever visually experienced a swarm of insects following me.

Thankfully, we both had decent cardio and never completely exhausted out, although we’d occasionally let up the pace only to be overtaken again. Eventually, we reached a trail that led to some sort of cabin for hosting events during the winter (I assume because it had a fireplace). Maybe it was used for some nature interpretation (see what I did there)? We caught our breath there for a minute before heading back to our campsite.

Needless to say we were hungry,  thirsty, and exhausted when we returned. But we had survived without any injuries, and with an interesting story to tell our parents! 

Looking back, it doesn’t sound that serious, but in the moment while we were biking full speed under the blazing sun and could see a swarm of flies keeping pace and trying to eat us, it was kinda intense, but created a funny story. My question is, do you have an interesting negative encounter with nature that you would consider sharing?

I don't have many images of Kouchibouguac National Park on my phone was we lacked electricity, but here's one I took on my way in

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Hey Michael, 

You're quite the storyteller! I must say I’ve never heard anyone explain being harassed by flies so dramatically haha.

I totally understand where you're coming from though. I was raised in a more rural environment where every summer was filled with daily annoyance from black/deer flies. They truly ruin the best of days. 

I remember one time my brother and I were off walking our dogs through the bushes of our backyard towards one of the surrounding ponds. It was such a hot day that we decided to just jump in the water with the dogs and enjoy what seemed like a perfect summer day. This was our first mistake.

When we got out of the water we realized that we hadn't brought anything to dry off with so we just started walking back with the dogs through the bushes. This was our second mistake.

All of a sudden all these huge deer flies and black flies were attacking me and my brother to the point that we started running. I remember looking back and seeing my brother, the dogs, and the flies all behind me. It truly felt like some type of horror movie! Ever since then I've always made sure that I was dry if I had to walk through any type of forest or bush. 

It's funny how such a small species can cause such dramatic reactions out of us. Looking back, it obviously wasn't a big deal and it's not the end of the world, but, in the moment, it truly is just so annoying!

It's reassuring to know that I'm not the only one who has resorted to running away from these pests

This is my brother and dog, Molly, after said run

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The Gift of Beauty

As an interpreter, my role in viewing nature through an art lens is more that of a storyteller. While I am not one to physically create art, through painting, sculpture or photography, I enjoy sharing creative and meaningful ways to share the complexities and wonders of the world with those who are interested. 

I believe that art has the ability to elicit both emotional and intellectual responses. By mixing art with nature interpretation, I believe this provides richer experiences for individuals, making the learning process not just informative but also emotionally engaging. Moments like these, that can elicit both responses, allow the individual to form deeper, personal connections with nature.

When I interpret 'the gift of beauty,' I think of it as capturing moments in time. The gift is the ability to take in a moment in time and be able to understand and interpret it in a way that is unique to you (Beck et al., 2018). Past experiences, choices and viewpoints can all contribute to this, resulting in a deeply personal and subjective appreciation.

The ‘gift of beauty’ is also a great way to instill a desire in individuals to preserve nature. The emotional connection inspired by the beauty of the natural world can generate a sense of duty and an eagerness to protect the very environments that inspire such amazement. Individuals who create serious personal connections with nature are more likely to develop a passion to protect and preserve it. Moreover, the gift of beauty, as perceived through the lenses of art, can serve as a motive to promote a deep respect for the environment and a dedication to preserving its beauty for future generations (Beck et al., 2018).

When I was growing up I would visit my rural hometown quite often as most of my extended family still lived there. When I would return back to Guelph, I remember telling all my friends about the different activities and adventures I went on with my cousins, shocked at how intrigued they were. This was because they had all lived in Guelph, a very urbanized city, for all of their lives. Telling them of my trip to the hidden ‘ice cave’ or the hikes to the abandoned mountains was normal to me, but for them, they had never heard of or partaken in such random activities. Learning this made me eager to share more stories as I wanted them to understand how amazing these activities were for me. Simple things like sitting atop a little mountain of boulders were so entertaining simply because every moment was unique; you never knew what was going to happen around you. One day the trees could be changing colours, or the ducks across the lake could be teaching their new ducklings how to swim. I will always regret taking this for granted when I was a kid. Regardless, these experiences have made me realize how much I enjoy sharing stories, particularly of experiences with nature. Everyone's experiences are different and that is so exciting to me. Two people could go to the same place at the same time and have completely different experiences of that adventure. That's what I think the gift of beauty is.

Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Chapter 5: Guiding Principles of Interpretation. In Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For A Better World (pp. 81–103). Sagamore Venture.

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The lovely muse; nature

I think most of us can remember being a kid and drawing a big flower with five pink petals with a sun in the corner of the page. This common experience goes to show that nature is the purest form of inspiration, the gift of beauty giving us the urge to recreate (Beck et al. 2018, p. 85) . Nature has continued to inspire me far past my days of drawing bright blue skies with crayon-scribble grass, and it remains my muse for the art I create today. 

Plants and sea life have been my main focus of interpretation, I love to apply nature to obscure concepts and play with surrealism. I believe my artistic interpretation of art centres around the gift of provocation, I want to create art that makes people apply their own meanings to it (Beck et al. 2018, p. 85). A personal favourite painting I have made is titled “Keeping you at arms reach”, where I incorporate hands with a venus fly trap. The inspiration behind this was the long stem that venus fly traps grow for their floral organs, far away from their lower chomping mouths. These flowers are kept high, as to not capture any beneficial pollinating insects, ensuring their chance of reproduction. This fact inspired me to think of human relationships and keeping people away from the painful realities deeper down, the things that could drive others away. I feel that this example perfectly encapsulates how I use art to interpret nature, to use an organism with no human expression to showcase human ideologies. 

I believe that using nature as an inspiration for art drives me to be a better interpreter. When a plant such as a pitcher plant inspires me, I learn more about it and explore reasons behind certain characteristics. This curiosity opens new doors to learning, and through this I have more information added to my interpretation toolbag. Having broad ranges of knowledge also makes me more adaptable to various groups of people! Kid that asks how mushrooms grow out of trees? I have learned about that! Adult who wonders if the bird they’re seeing is a crow or a raven? I can give them an annoying amount of information! 

Associating the tangible elements of my surroundings to attach a story/meaning through art makes me happy and aids in my ability to provide interpretation to those around me (Beck et al. 2018, p. 88). Although I do associate my own specific meanings to my art, I rarely share those meanings to others. I prefer to hear what they believe the concept to be, and it makes me so excited when people interpret my art in a way I never would have thought of myself. Thank you for reading, I wanted to leave off with a recent painting I did and possibly hear some of your interpretations!

Beck, L., Cable, T.T., & Knudson, D.M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage for a better world. Sagamore Publishing LLC. 

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Hi Alleeya!

Firstly, I just wanted to say how awesome your drawings are! They remind me so much of the art style of my late cousin, which brings back happy memories :) 

I agree that using nature as an inspiration for art can be a great tool for becoming a better interpreter. Inspiration gives us the motivation and drive to not only do but want to do something. Even when it comes to school, I have learned that the courses I do the best in are the ones that I am truly intrigued by and that inspire me to want to learn.

Nature, with all its complexities, provides such a wide range of topics that can spark our interest. Whether studying biology, ecology, or environmental science, drawing inspiration from the natural world can make the learning experience not only entertaining but also meaningful.

Moreover, drawing inspiration from nature builds a special bond not only with the environment but also with those who share this same admiration. This creates a shared environment for developing relationships and promoting a sense of community (Beck et al., 2018).

Overall, using nature as inspiration can not only improve our creative abilities but can also deepen our approach to learning while creating connections with both the natural world and others. The way I see it, it's like a cycle in which inspiration from nature acts as a catalyst for our individual growth, relationships, and an overall better understanding of the world around us. The more we learn and understand, the more inspired we can become. 

Beck, L., Cable, T.T., & Knudson, D.M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage for a better world. Sagamore Publishing LLC. 

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Blog 3: Privilege in Nature Interpretation

Hey all! Welcome back to my 3rd blog post and thank you all for joining me on this journey! Enjoy my thoughts on privilege in Nature Interpretation and obviously some pictures as well!

What is privilege? The definition of privilege is a special right or advantage available to only specific people or groups. As an example this could mean that someone who is born in a large city (e.g., New York, Toronto, L.A., etc.) may never visit an untouched natural forest. While, someone born in the country or smaller towns (e.g., St. Clements, Huntsville, Lion’s Head, etc.) might be a 30 second walk from one. This privilege of being able to visit the forests and see them in their natural untouched beauty can cause a very long lasting, and deep impression on someone as a child, which, can help their love for nature grow and be significantly different than someone without the privilege of being able to visit these places on a daily, weekly, monthly, or yearly basis. 

A picture of the untouched forest on Flower Pot Island, Tobermory from a boat just off shore. The smaller of the 2 flowerpots is seen in this picture as well.

Some people with the privilege of being in nature at a young age are going to care for it more. Thus, if you have a nature interpretation guided hike or fun activity it is more likely that the people who have had the privilege of being exposed to nature are going to show up to the hike/activity and interact with the event happening, than someone who did not have the privilege of being exposed to nature as a young child. 

A picture taken from my grandma's sugar bush. Pails on the trees can be seen and are used for collecting sap for making maple syrup.

I was personally lucky enough to have had this privilege and have a deep interest in nature. Every year, my family goes to my grandma’s house and taps trees to collect sap and make maple syrup, and for many years when I was young I wouldn’t really help that much (oops) and would run around the bush playing in the trees and the ponds that were all around. I also had the privilege of exploring new places such as Snyder's Flats in Bloomingdale, and many trails through the Northern Bruce Peninsula. This privilege allowed me to see many different animals in different events ranging anywhere from a bear trying to break into a dumpster (unfortunately I didn’t get a picture) to water snakes mating on the rocks to feeding flying squirrels from my hand. Many people will never be able to experience these things because they never had the privilege of being in these places multiple times or for extended periods of time.

2 wild baby foxes I saw on my way home from work in the summer time.

Thank you all once again for reading this blog. I hope you enjoyed, and hopefully you join back next week for the next post!

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Hi Jody,

Thank you for sharing your perspective on privilege in nature interpretation. It's such an important topic, and I think your use of personal experiences was a great tool to emphasize your point of view!

I completely agree with your opinion on how where we are born influences our interaction with nature. Your example of city inhabitants versus those from smaller communities is spot on. It's shocking how experiencing the natural environment in such a way can have long-term impacts especially when it starts at a young age. This resonated with me as I grew up in a very rural area only to move into the city when I was a little older. Your point about the potential long-term influence on an individual’s love for nature is spot on. 

I certainly think that my respect for the natural world was largely shaped by my early experiences growing up in a rural environment. Even though my surroundings have changed, I will never forget the times I spent exploring the woods and truly enjoying the outdoors without distraction. This personally serves as a reminder of the value of early environmental exposure and how it can shape one's view of nature and the environment. 

Additionally, I believe it is important that we use this advantage of having spent more time in nature to help others understand and appreciate the environment. By using this information/perspective, we can actively help others build stronger relationships with nature, especially those who have not had the same opportunities. This could include sharing personal experiences, organizing certain activities, and offering guidance to anyone who asks for it (Beck et al. 2018). These blogs are a great way to do so!

Beck, L., Cable, T.T., & Knudson, D.M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage for a better world. Sagamore Publishing LLC. 

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Privilege

Privilege refers to the advantages and opportunities given to only a particular individual or group of individuals. I think that there are various ways in which privilege can play a role in nature interpretation. This is because there are various different types of privilege. 

The key role that privilege can play in nature interpretation is impacting an individual’s access to and participation in natural spaces (Beck et al., 2018). This can be due to educational privilege, cultural privilege, economic privilege, or even time privilege, among others.

Those with educational privilege may approach nature interpretation with a more informed foundation, resulting in a better, well-informed understanding. Their more knowledgeable understanding can make it easier for them to engage in interpretation in a meaningful way, making the experience more rewarding all around.

Similarly, cultural privilege could influence people's views and relationships to the cultural aspects of nature interpretation by shaping their perceptions and connections to their heritage or culture. However, this factor may also introduce potential biases and assumptions rooted in the individual's specific cultural understanding, providing the ‘advantage’ to those with different cultural ties to the specific area.

Those with economic privilege may have greater access to parks, reserves, or other natural locations. Additionally, this privilege could lead to greater educational privilege in turn due to the greater opportunities that those of higher economic privilege can often attain.

Lastly, time privilege refers to the advantage that individuals with more free time or flexible schedules have over those who have less time. This could be due to various commitments such as a job, caregiving responsibilities, or any other time-consuming obligations. In nature interpretation, time privilege can influence how individuals participate in and benefit from interpretive programs and activities. 

Privilege can also influence an individual's level of environmental awareness and advocacy. Individuals who have the luxury of time and funds may become more involved in conservation activities, environmental advocacy, and/or sustainability practices. In contrast, individuals facing economic hardships may be distracted by urgent worries, making it difficult to prioritize environmental issues. This could also be apparent in regard to education. Those with greater education would likely be more inclined to advocate for environmental stewardship as they may better grasp the science behind it. 

However, it should be addressed that this post uses a lot of assumptions which may not be the case in every situation. Where something may seem like an obvious privilege to one person, it may be the opposite for another. I think that there are so many ways in which we can interpret everything and, because of that, it can be really hard to give definitive answers to such complex questions.

In summary, privilege, whether educational, cultural, economic, or time-related, has significant effects on an individual's experiences and interactions with nature interpretation. While having any of these privileges is not necessarily something to be embarrassed about or regret, recognizing them and their dynamics in nature interpretation is critical to producing inclusive and accessible programs that appeal to a varying audience. This helps to establish a more fair and lasting relationship between individuals and the natural world.

Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2018). Chapter 7: Serving Diverse Audiences. In Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For A Better World (pp. 127–158). Sagamore Venture.

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02: My ideal nature interpretation role

Hi everyone, for this blog I’ll be talking about my ideal environmental interpreter role! My ideal role as a nature interpreter would be to educate people on endangered species, and encourage them to become more involved in conservation. 

I have always loved programs or experiences that get you interested and involved in learning about endangered animals, and that inspire you to help those species. I remember watching Steve Irwin’s show when I was younger, and it got me really interested in animals and inspired me to help protect endangered species as much as I could. Having a hands-on or in person aspect to this kind of teaching is something that I find can engage someone even more in conservation. Having a hands-on portion in conservation programs engages people more by offering a tangible connection to nature, which gives them a sense of responsibility. I think the same thing can be said for things such as zoos too. You gain a much greater sense of connection when you can actually see the animals in person. Because of this, my ideal role as a nature interpreter would be a job where I could talk to and educate people on endangered species, with either a hands-on or in person portion to this role. 

This role would involve me talking to an audience about certain species, and then giving them an opportunity to actually hold/touch the species, or be able to see the species in person. This role could be done as a travelling nature educator, someone who goes to schools or events to talk to people about animals and brings live animals with them for their audience to interact with. One company that does this is “Sciensational Sssnakes.” I recently had the opportunity to attend one of their presentations, and it was a great experience! The owner talked to us about many different snake species in Ontario, and some of the conservation concerns and efforts surrounding those species. After the presentation, we got to hold the snakes and interact with them, which made me feel a lot more connected! I think a role like this is exactly the type of nature interpreting that I would like to be a part of. Another place I would love to work is the Toronto Zoo. The shows and educational talks that the zookeepers do at the zoo have helped many people, including myself, to feel more connected to conservation efforts, and gives them a sense of responsibility when it comes to endangered species.

Me holding a Black Rat Snake at the Sciensational Sssnakes presentation!

Both of these roles would require very similar skills. A combination of strong communication skills to convey information in an engaging manner, a deep understanding of animal behaviour and biology, the ability to adapt content for diverse audiences, and patience and empathy in working with both animals and people would all be necessary for this sort of nature interpretation. Passion for conservation and a commitment to promoting ethical and responsible treatment of animals in educational settings would also be essential. Overall, educating people on endangered animals and conservation efforts would be my ideal role in nature interpretation!

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Hey Grace,

I love the idea of a role that educates people on endangered species while also encouraging them to become more involved in conservation. This is somewhat similar to my ideal role, in that I also thought it was important to have a role that allows me to share the importance of environmental responsibility and encourage people to feel their connection to the natural environment. 

I completely agree that a hands-on or in-person aspect adds a unique and effective aspect to conservation education. This oftentimes helps to encourage others to find connections to nature while also  creating a sense of responsibility (Beck et al., 2018) . I have personally experienced this phenomenon in the various environmental courses I’ve taken recently. It's amazing how substantially this can improve education.

I also really liked that you included education on the given topic(s) as a skill necessary for this role! First and foremost, education works to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and public understanding. Many environmental challenges and conservation concepts involve complicated scientific concepts that can be difficult to understand. Having the ability to combine and explain these concepts clearly and understandably is certainly critical. Second, education plays an important role in instilling a feeling of environmental responsibility. An environmental interpreter can help people make educated decisions in their daily lives by teaching them about endangered species, ecosystems, the effects of human activity and more!

It's really cool to hear about your experiences working with snakes! I feel like snakes frequently have an unjustified reputation, which can instill fear or misunderstanding in certain individuals. Your hands-on experience with them is a great example of using an interpretive role to fight preconceptions and promote a positive viewpoint of the species. By educating others on the functions that snakes play in ecosystems and the importance of their conservation, it might help to change perceptions.

Beck, L., Cable, T.T., & Knudson, D.M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage for a better world. Sagamore Publishing LLC. 

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My Ideal Role as an Environmental Interpreter 🌿

In my ideal role as an environmental interpreter, I envision myself working as a guide/interpreter for a provincial or national park, specifically one that is rich in biodiversity with extensive trails and pathways for exploration. One example of this location could be Mount Robson Provincial Park in British Columbia. This park is on the western edge of the Canadian Rockies and is rich in biodiversity, with 229 different species being identified within the park. This includes 82 birds, 42 mammals, 4 amphibians, and 1 reptile (British Columbia Parks, 2023). There are also various different ecosystems within the park, with four biogeoclimatic zones used to categorize these ecosystems (British Columbia Parks, 2023). 

Mount Robson Provincial Park, ON

This would be my ideal role as it is in line with my passion for raising environmental awareness and conservation. This passion of mine for environmental sustainability is one that I have recently come to have, evoked by the many environmental courses I've taken here at Guelph. Moreover, this role would give me the opportunity to not only educate others on the nature in the park but also share the importance of environmental responsibility and encourage people to feel their connection to the natural environment. 

In this role, my responsibilities would involve leading interpretive programs for nature lovers of all ages, from school groups to mature adults. I think this role would also include recognizing the importance of different learning styles, as each individual has different ways in which they are able to effectively learn. Due to this, it would be important for me to include varied teaching strategies such as guided nature excursions, in-depth discussions, and hands-on activities. Whether directing adults through a nature photography course or leading a group of kids on a short wildlife excursion, I would adapt my approach to make sure that everyone had a positive and inclusive experience.

Additionally, this role would require a specific set of skills to succeed. Firstly, a thorough understanding of ecology and biodiversity is crucial as it would assist in the understanding and clarification of difficult scientific ideas. Possessing strong communication abilities would also be important as they would aid in explaining these ideas to a variety of audiences. In relation to this, being able to create interesting and educational lessons would be a useful skill, as it could promote greater comprehension of difficult ideas in addition to grabbing learners' attention. In order to develop these lessons, collaboration is another important skill to have. Specifically, collaboration with other interpreters, park employees, and local communities in order to ensure that the information provided is accurate and relevant.

Overall, regardless of what the role is, I think that the most important thing is that it includes education. Encouraging others to recognize and understand their role in protecting the environment is critical not only for the ecosystem but also for our planet's long-term survival. Thus, regardless of the specific role, education is the most important aspect, as it is an effective tool for promoting positive change and establishing a shared commitment to environmental conservation.

Beck, L., Cable, T.T., & Knudson, D.M. (2018). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage for a better world. Sagamore Publishing LLC. 

British Columbia Parks. (2023). Mount Robson Park: Nature and culture. Province of British Columbia. https://bcparks.ca/mount-robson-park/nature-culture/