ENVS3000 Blogs

Natalie's Nature Blogs!

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Disclaimer

This blog was created for ENVS*3000, University of Guelph. 

The opinions expressed here represent my own and not those of the University of Guelph. 

The University of Guelph is not responsible for the accuracy of any of the information supplied by this blog.

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Personal Ethics

As I develop as a nature interpreter, my personal ethic is deeply rooted in a desire to make a positive change in an ever-evolving world. I am driven by the aspiration to inspire others to deepen their knowledge and understanding of the natural world, emphasizing that we are a part of nature, not just co-inhabitants of our planet. My beliefs are centered around the critical importance of animal conservation and rehabilitation strategies, focusing on addressing and mitigating major concerns such as habitat destruction, poaching, and the impact of roadways on wildlife. I am committed to exploring and sharing ways to overcome these barriers, aiming to reflect the knowledge and experiences I've gained to inspire others.

I acknowledge the responsibilities that come with this role, including the duty to convey accurate information, foster a sense of stewardship towards the environment, and engage people from diverse backgrounds in meaningful discussions about conservation (Beck, et. al., 2018). My approach to fulfilling these responsibilities leans towards leveraging written and published work, as I find my strengths more pronounced in these areas compared to verbal communication (Beck, et. al., 2018). I am also keen on utilizing visual signs and signage as effective tools for interpretation, believing that these methods can powerfully convey messages about conservation and the natural world (Beck, et. al., 2018).

The preface of the textbook, Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage, highlights the multifaceted role of interpreters, who are tasked with transforming facts into engaging stories and experiences (Beck, et. al., 2018). This resonates with my ethic, as I see the value in using various media, including blogs, social media, and exhibits, to reach and educate a wider audience (Beck, et. al., 2018). Interpreters are described as ambassadors, a role I embrace by striving to serve as a bridge between the natural world and the public, encouraging a deeper appreciation and understanding of our planet's biodiversity (Beck, et. al., 2018).

The ideals of interpretation stress the importance of offering experiences that involve and resonate with visitors, promoting values such as peace, beauty, truth, diversity, and sustainability. These ideals align with my belief in the power of interpretation to inspire individual growth and communal action towards a better world. The philosophy of interpretation, with its focus on sharing the wonder and beauty of life, guides my approach to engaging with audiences and fostering a collective sense of responsibility towards environmental conservation.

In the context of environmental education, the challenges of climate change, habitat destruction, and biodiversity loss underscore the urgency of my mission (Roden, 2019). . Despite the complexities and siloed nature of these issues, I remain hopeful and committed to teaching and empowering the next generation to act (Roden, 2019). . Recognizing the limitations that keep children indoors, I advocate for more opportunities for outdoor learning, believing in the transformative power of direct experiences with nature to cultivate a sense of connection and stewardship among young people (Roden, 2019).

In conclusion, my personal ethic as a nature interpreter is anchored in a commitment to conservation, education, and engagement. By leveraging my strengths in written and visual communication, I aim to contribute to the collective effort to protect and preserve our natural world, inspiring others to join in this crucial endeavour.

References:

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

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

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Hi Abbey,

I loved reading your final blog post and your personal ethic as a nature interpreter is inspiring and reflects a deep commitment to conservation, education and engagement. I love that your personal outlook on nature interpretation is rooted in advocacy and conservation efforts as you acknowledge the urgency of environmental challenges such as climate change, habitat destruction and biodiversity loss, highlighting the importance of your mission. Additionally, highlighting the importance of future generations and children as crucial stewards of the land and for the future of our world and ecosystems is something I could not agree with more! I believe the impact the next generations will have on the environment will be crucial and profound. To further expand on this idea, how do you plan to tailor your nature interpretation efforts to engage younger age groups effectively? How will you ensure that younger generations will be inspired to act?

I look forward to hearing back from you!

Thanks again for sharing :)

Natalie

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Final Blog

Throughout this course, I have developed not only as a person but also as a nature interpreter, and as I continue to change into a nature interpreter in whatever form that may take, I want to bring a few personal ethics with me. The first ethic is that I want my love and passion for nature always to be evident. Interpreting often involves sharing facts and telling history, which is highly informative. If done correctly and with good interpretation in mind, it should also connect with people and boost their view of the world through a sharing of passion (Beck et al., 2018, Chapter 5). It is also vital for me to carry the love of nature and work to have others fall in love with nature the same way I did. I believe love for something initiates learning, solving problems, and protecting fundamental issues in a changing world with many environmental and ecological challenges. Love is also where many children begin to learn; they develop a love for nature and then grow to learn more about complex concepts and ideas (Rodenburg, 2019). Lastly, I want to ensure that I continue to learn and encourage others to continue to learn. There is endless knowledge to be had, and I want to encourage people to realize that it is never too late to stop learning. 

As I work towards becoming an experienced nature interpreter, I want to bring a few beliefs with me, beginning with the fact that everyone wants to learn and sometimes just needs more help. Many people have barriers such as being too busy, physical or mental ailments or lack of financial ability (Beck et al., 2018, Chapter 6). Despite barriers, everyone can participate in nature interpretation and continue to learn more about the world around us. I also believe in sparking joy with participants. Making people fall in love with nature is the key to handling more significant issues such as climate change. 

Being a nature interpreter involves many responsibilities ranging from the goals of interpretation and spreading a message to ensuring inclusion for everyone. Along with many responsibilities, I think a few take the cake for importance, and I would like to focus on these. The most important responsibility is creating an inclusive environment that is supportive of learning for everyone. You can have a fantastic message and interpretive performance, but if not everyone can see or experience it, then there is no point. A critical aspect of this is accessibility. If someone is blind, I have to ensure they have components they can participate in, such as having brail pamphlets or information boards; if someone is in a wheelchair, I need to provide either an accessible, safe walk or, if that is not possible provide an online component offering the same experience (Beck et al., 2018, Chapter 6; Beck et al., 2018, Chapter 6). It is also important for me to include people of all ethnicities and races, whether through hiring a diverse team of individuals or being aware of different individuals with differing beliefs on religion, history or politics (Beck et al., 2018, Chapter 5). It is also crucial to get to know my group before beginning to interpret (Beck et al., 2018, Chapter 6). Talk to them, hear their perspectives and change my program depending on the discussion (Beck et al., 2018, Chapter 6). Understanding the people you are interpreting is key to sharing your message with them. My last key responsibility involves creating an effective interpretation program. I have to be able to pick out unique features of a place, relate them to the common person and create a bigger picture and sense of place through an enjoyable, organized method (Beck et al., 2018, Chapter 5; Beck et al., 2018, Chapter 1). Ensuring that the entire story is shared by including history is essential to avoid only relaying parts of the pieces (Beck et al., 2018, Chapter 5). Overall, there are many responsibilities when interpreting. However, the most important thing to me is getting to know the people with whom you share your message to tell a story effectively. 

Everyone is different, which makes nature interpretation fun because everyone brings different experiences, passions and abilities. When it comes to interpreting, I will be sure to include as many multiple intelligences as possible to try to reach all learners. However, I have a few that I think I would be best at, and those are bodily-kinesthetic, naturalistic and musical. I learn the best through these types, and I feel I can relate to learners who are similar to me. Using hands-on experiences out in nature is an easy way of teaching because this is how I learn. The same goes for musicals, as I remember lyrics and sounds well. I can use music to connect audience members to what I am interpreting. I also feel that I can connect with people very well. I have always been more of an introvert who would rather sit back and watch other people than be the one in the spotlight. This gives me an advantage when getting to know the audience, like what they are interested in, their barriers or why they are there. I can then tailor my interpretation to suit the audience best, allowing them to get the most out of the program (Beck et al., 2018, Chapter 6).  Another approach that I would be effective at using is art. I have always connected with art and have been creative growing up. Art is used to help convey messages, remember facts, and set tones (Beck et al., 2018, Chapter 10). By using pieces of nature to make art, using art mediums to draw or recreate nature, or using music, I can effectively interpret and add more to a program. One last approach I want to use, as I think it suits me, is using history to change perspectives and give a place more meaning (Beck et al., 2018, Chapter 15). I never used to be interested in history and thought it was boring; however, I have recently begun to change my opinion, and I see the value in it being used. I want to share this newfound passion with people and use history to create and tell a complete story about a place. I want them to imagine the place in it is past and understand how it has changed to where it is now and why that change has been important. This could be incredibly important when discussing topics such as climate change, where landscape changes can be seen through things like glaciers receding. 

Nature interpretation will look different for everyone as we bring unique perspectives, assets and passion to the field. I want to know how you think nature interpretation will be incorporated into your life in the future. 

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.

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

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Hi Olivia!

I loved reading your final post this week! I can't believe it's the last one....

Your reflections on your journey toward becoming a nature interpreter and the personal ethics and beliefs you want to uphold are inspiring! What stood out to me most about your post is your dedication to creating an inclusive environment that considers barriers to certain groups of individuals and that ensures everyone has the opportunity to connect with nature and learn from your programs. I think that's a huge part of recognizing the privilege we hold as interpreters as we learned in this course and realizing that we all come from different backgrounds and abilities and have access to different things. Creating a space where everyone feels welcome and accepted is so important as an interpreter and I love that you highlighted this!

I also love how you recognize the importance of incorporating multiple intelligences in your interpretation efforts, demonstrating a thoughtful approach to engaging diverse audiences. Utilizing your strengths in bodily-kinesthetic, naturalistic, musical, and artistic intelligence can enhance the effectiveness of your programs and resonate with a wide range of learners. I think it's so important as we learned in this course that as an interpreter, being able to adapt to the needs of the audience is what will leave the greatest impact on those you teach!

To answer your question, as someone very passionate about nature and the environment, I envision nature interpretation being incorporated into various different aspects of my life in the future. Firstly, potentially in my career path if I decide to pursue a career in the environmental field where I could work for various different organizations or companies and would be continuing to engage in learning about the natural world and conservation efforts. Secondly, in everyday life where nature interpretation will not be confined to specific roles or activities but will show up in things like practicing eco-friendly behaviours, appreciating the natural world through hiking or camping and continually seeking out opportunities to interpret and connect with nature.

Overall, great job on your post and thanks for sharing your journey!

All the best,

Natalie

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Hi everyone!

Wow… I can’t believe this is the last blog of the year! It’s quite a bittersweet feeling but I’m excited to wrap up everything I’ve learned and explored throughout the course in this final post and dive into my true personal ethics as a nature interpreter. Here we go!

What are my personal beliefs? 

One of my main personal beliefs as a nature interpreter is sharing empathy and inclusivity through the belief in fostering and creating inclusive spaces where people from all backgrounds and learning abilities feel welcome to connect with and learn from the natural world. As someone who has spent hours volunteering at Kids Ability and has always shared a deep passion for helping people with a disability whether that be physical, mental or emotional, I strongly believe that as a nature interpreter, it is our duty to make all people feel welcomed and included. As I learned in this course, “interpreting to people with disabilities involves getting people to participate and learn by building on their knowledge, interests, and skills, just as with any group of visitors!” and that is exactly the approach I would have as a nature interpreter (Beck, 2018). I also believe this relates to the privilege I have as a nature interpreter in recognizing the importance of integrating all audiences by providing opportunities for building social skills for those with and without disabilities while also recognizing the privilege we carry in relation to those around us. Some suggested examples of proper etiquette when working with people with disabilities are: don’t “talk down’ to a person with a disability, speak in a normal tone of voice, be patient and encouraging, do not lean on a wheelchair or any other assistive device, offer assistance only when permission is given, etc (Beck, 2018). 

Secondly, another important belief I carry as a nature interpreter is the belief in lifelong learning. One of my favourite things about nature is that there is always more to learn and discover and always more than what meets the eye. As a nature interpreter, I believe in fostering an environment of lifelong learning where individuals are encouraged to deepen their understanding and appreciation for the natural world through their own individual curiosity and interest. I believe that every individual experiences and interperets the world differently and there is no right way to see the things around us and that learning is continuous. 

What are my personal responsibilities? 

One of my main responsibilities as a nature interpreter is the responsibility to advocate for the conservation and protection of natural habitats and species, using my platform to raise awareness about environmental issues and what we as a society can do to help. As I learned throughout this course, “public advocacy can be risky, and not always possible everywhere, but for the right organizations there can be enormous opportunities to more deeply connect with their clientele and make a difference in the world,” and that would be my responsibility as a nature interpreter (Beck, 2018). Some of the ways I would promote advocacy is by raising awareness about environmental issues such as climate change or pollution, promoting local conservation efforts and encouraging sustainable practices such as recycling and waste reduction. By using my knowledge, communication skills and passion, I can inspire others to become environmental stewards and advocate for policies and practices that protect and preserve the world around us. 

Another key responsibility of mine is to ensure that as a nature interpreter, I always lead ethically and adhere to ethical standards in my interactions with both nature and people, ensuring that my actions are aligned with principles of respect, integrity and honesty. Some of the actions I can take to ensure this would be refraining from actions that cause harm or disruption to ecosystems and wildlife, only conveying information about the natural world that is accurate and honest, recognizing the importance of cultural sensitivity and respect for indigenous knowledge when interpreting nature and adhering to principles of informed consent before using photographs or data. Ethics are important as a nature interpreter as it’s essential for protecting the environment, species and resources, encourages us to think beyond our immediate needs and consider the impacts of our choices, teaches us to advocate for environmentally friendly practices and also builds trust between the interpreter and their audience (GFG, 2023).

How would I approach this?

One way I would approach being a nature interpreter in a way that is most suitable for me, is through use of experiential learning that involves a hands-on approach to learning that engages participants directly in the learning process. As someone who has always been more of a kinesthetic learner, I believe my teaching approach would be best suitable for things such as hand-on activities including touching or examining leaves or rocks, field investigations, nature-based crafts or projects and physical games like scavenger hunts or obstacle courses. By incorporating this hand-on approach to nature interpretation, I can effectively engage learners in a hands-on, experiential learning experience that fosters connection and curiosity towards the natural world. In doing so, it is also my duty as an interpreter to also recognize that although this is a suitable learning style for me, it might not be the most suitable for those around me. As an interpreter, I must not only be able to cater to every learner, but I need to be able to quickly adapt to suit my audiences needs (Hooykaas, 2024). Incorporating my own preferred learning style while also adapting to the needs of those around me, is what will create the best possible learning environment for my audience as a nature interpreter. 

Secondly, another approach I would take as a nature interpreter is teaching through storytelling. As someone who has always been more creative and curious about the natural world, the stories and cultural significance of nature is something that has always appealed to me. Storytelling is a powerful tool in nature interpretation and can, “powerfully convey information about cultural and natural history where stories have the potential to hold the attention of large, mixed-age audiences” (Beck, 2018). Some ways I can use storytelling through nature interpretation is by sharing stories that highlight traditional knowledge, historical events associated with a particular place and Indigenous perspectives. Additionally, by engaging the audience through use of imagination, inviting the audience to envision themselves as part of the narrative through use of vivid imagery or sensory details. Overall, I believe storytelling is one of the best ways to interpret the beauty of the world around us and create an experience for the audience that is unique and inspiring. 

Ultimately, as nature interpreters, we play a vital role in bridging the gap between humans and the natural world, encouraging curiosity, appreciation and action. Although each one of us may have different outlooks on important beliefs, responsibilities or approaches, we all play the same important role in the end. I hope you enjoyed listening to mine!

To end this post, I would love to know what your personal most important belief, responsibility, and approach is when it comes to nature interpretation? Do you think one is more important than the other?

Thanks for listening!

Natalie

Works Cited

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

Hooykaas, A. (2024). Unit 02: Teaching Learners. ENVS3000 Nature Interpretation. University of Guelph.

GfG. (2023, September 10). Environmental ethics - types, importance, examples. GeeksforGeeks. https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/environmental-ethics/ 

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Unveiling the Underwater Symphony: The Marvels of Coral Reef Symbiosis🐠

Hey fellow nature lovers! Today, I'm thrilled to share with you one of the most extraordinary marvels of the natural world that never fails to fill me with wonder: the intricate dance of symbiosis in coral reefs.

Imagine plunging beneath the surface of the ocean, into a vibrant underwater world teeming with life. Here, nestled among the coral colonies, exists a delicate balance of cooperation and mutual benefit that has evolved over millions of years (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), 2024; NOAA, n.d.)

At the heart of this underwater paradise are the corals themselves, tiny organisms that build intricate calcium carbonate skeletons, forming the backbone of the reef ecosystem (Lippsett, 2018). But what truly sets coral reefs apart is their mutualistic relationship with algae known as zooxanthellae (NOAA, n.d.). You can catch a glimpse of these symbiotic organisms in the image below:

Direct photograph link: https://www.tetiaroasociety.org/biosphere-tetiaroa/zooxanthellae :)

These microscopic algae live safely within the tissues of the coral, harnessing the power of sunlight to photosynthesize and produce energy (NOAA, n.d.). In return, they provide the coral with essential nutrients like glucose, helping to fuel their growth and survival (NOAA, n.d.). It's a partnership so vital that without it, coral reefs as we know them would cease to exist (NOAA, n.d.).

But the wonders of symbiosis don't stop there. Coral reefs are also home to a dazzling array of marine life, from colourful fish and graceful sea turtles to elusive lobsters and enchanting seahorses (NOAA, 2024). Each species plays a unique role in the reef ecosystem, contributing to its resilience and diversity.

What's truly remarkable about coral reefs is their ability to adapt and thrive in some of the most challenging environments on Earth (Harvey et al., 2018). From the crystal-clear waters of the tropics to the murky depths of the deep sea, corals have evolved a remarkable array of shapes, sizes, and colours to ✨ thrive and survive ✨ (Harvey et al., 2018).

But perhaps the most exciting aspect of coral reef interpretation lies in its potential to inspire action and conservation (NOAA, 2024). As we continue to explore and understand these underwater wonders, we uncover not only the secrets of the ocean but also the urgent need to protect and preserve it for future generations (NOAA, 2024).

Direct photograph link: https://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/whitsunday/reef-protest-surprises-mp/news-story/c8ba89c08b93307b13bb913ae7ac3894 :)

Imagine a future where every person, young and old, feels a deep connection to the ocean and understands the vital role that coral reefs play in sustaining life on Earth. A future where conservation efforts are driven not only by scientific research but also by a shared sense of awe and wonder at the beauty and complexity of the natural world. This embodies the "bright future of interpretation" Beck et al. (2018, p. 457) envisioned – a future where every discovery, every moment of awe, fuels our passion for understanding and protecting the wonders of the natural world.

So, the next time you find yourself daydreaming about the ocean, take a moment to marvel at the intricate dance of symbiosis unfolding beneath the waves. And remember, the wonders of nature are all around us, just waiting to be discovered and appreciated! Until next time :)

Madison B.

References:

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

Harvey, B. J., Nash, K. L., Blanchard, J. L., & Edwards, D. P. (2018). Ecosystem‐based management of coral reefs under climate change. Ecology and Evolution, 8(12), 6354–6368. https://doi.org/10.1002%2Fece3.4146

Lippsett, L. (2018, November 12). How Do Corals Build Their Skeletons? Oceanus. https://www.whoi.edu/oceanus/feature/how-do-corals-build-their-skeletons/

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. (n.d.). Zooxanthellae … What's That?. National Ocean Service. https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/education/tutorial_corals/coral02_zooxanthellae.html#:~:text=The%20corals%20and%20these%20special,the%20coral%20to%20remove%20wastes.

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. (2024, January 18). What species live in and around coral reefs?. National Ocean Service. https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/coral_species.html#:~:text=Millions%20of%20species%20live%20in%20and%20around%20coral%20reefs&text=Fish%2C%20corals%2C%20lobsters%2C%20clams,thousands%20of%20years%20of%20history.

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Hey Madison,

I really enjoyed reading your post this week and you did a wonderful job writing a captivating description of the symbolic dance within coral reefs! I can see your passion for nature and the intricate relationships that sustain ecosystems through your discussion post :) 

I love that you painted a picture of the underwater world, describing its vibrant colours and diverse inhabitants and their remarkable ability to adapt and thrive in some of the most diverse and challenging environments. Moreover, your emphasis on the importance of conservation and need to protect these fragile ecosystems are what stood out to me most. To add to your post, here are some of the ways I’ve brainstormed that we can help contribute to the conservation of coral reefs and marine ecosystems:

Reduce carbon footprint: by using energy more efficiently, reducing meat consumption and minimizing waste, we can help reduce our carbon footprint and aid in combating climate change 

Reduce pollution: minimizing use of plastics, disposing of waste properly, and participating in beach clean-up events are ways we can prevent pollution and marine debris 

Support marine conservation organizations: Donating to marine conservation organizations that work to protect coral reefs and marine habitats are ways we can help support research and projects aimed at aiding in marine and coral reef health 

As explained in the textbook, “advocacy can be risky, and not always possible everywhere, but for the right organizations there can be enormous opportunities to more deeply connect with their clientele and make a difference in the world,” which I believe stands true for the conservation of coral reefs and marine ecosystems (Beck, 2018). By taking small actions individually and collectively, we can all play a part in conserving coral reefs and protecting marine ecosystems for future generations.   

Thanks again for your great post!

Natalie

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 Enchanting World of Bioluminescence!

Hi friends!!

Welcome back to another week of blogging… I can’t believe this is the 9th week of blogging! Time really does fly. 

Today I am going to introduce you all to the captivating and mesmorizing world of Bioluminescence! I remember learning about this in a documentary after seeing photos online of bioluminescent beaches and it is one of the most fascinating phenomenons ever! 

To begin, picture this: a moonless night, the ocean gently lapping at the shore, and suddenly, the water bursts into a mesmerizing display of ethereal blue-green light. This is not a scene from a sci-fi movie; it's the magical world of bioluminescence! Bioluminescence is the ability of living organisms to produce light and can be encountered in summer evenings from the flickering lights of fireflies, or in the depths of the ocean from bacteria and sharks (NOAA, 2017). 

What truly sets bioluminescence apart is its sheer beauty and versatility. From attracting mates, luring in prey, communicating with fellow organisms or warding off predators, bioluminescence serves a variety of purposes in the natural world (National Geographic, n.d). For example, the vampire squid uses this as a defensive behaviour as instead of ejecting dark ink to defend against predators, they instead eject sticky bioluminescent mucus which can confuse and delay predators (National Geographic, n.d). Additionally, another really cool theory is that some biologists theorize that some species who are not bioluminescent themselves, take advantage of species that are. For example, a sperm whale might surround itself with bioluminescent plankton in order to eat fish who are the planktons predators as their glowing alerts the whale that fish are nearby (National Geographic, n.d). It is so fascinating to me how the language of light can work in such enticing ways. 

So, the next time you find yourself under the starry night sky or lurking out into the ocean, remember the hidden world of bioluminescense that lies just beyond our sight. It’s a good reminder that even in the darkest corners of the Earth, there is still light to be seen, illuminating the beauty of the world around us.

To end this blog, I wanted to leave you with a question to ponder... in what ways can we draw inspiration from nature's ability to illuminate even the darkest of places within our own lives? What is the hidden symbolism here?

Thanks for reading and looking forward to hearing back!!!

Natalie

Works Cited

NOAA. (2017). What is bioluminescence? National Ocean Service. https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/biolum.html

National Geographic. (n.d). Bioluminescence is light emitted by living things through chemical reactions in their bodies. National Geographic Education. https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/bioluminescence/

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NATURE AND MUSIC (unit 7)

There is a genre of music called Biomusic which is music with sounds created by animals and plants, instead of humans. There are two types of biomusic: music entirely made by non-humans and music that is composed of non-human sounds but arranged by a human. This sounds like a very out-there and foreign concept but you have absolutely heard biomusic before, the most common example is birds. Maybe it was just one bird chirping away or a duet of two birds chirping together and seemingly playing off of each other almost like they are taking turns singing or even multiple birds like a symphony, but you have heard the natural phenomenon of bird songs. Additionally, many songs sample nature sounds like Blackbird by The Beatles and Radiohead by Morning Mr. Magpie. 

My favourite example of nature in music is study, ambient, and sleep music. Most sleep music and white noise machines play nature sounds like babbling brooks, drizzly rain, or crashing waves. But why does the human brain find this so relaxing? For the majority of human existence, we have been immersed in nature and have only recently (since the industrial revolution) most people live disconnected from nature. It has been found that exposure to forest noises causes physiological and psychological relaxation, including lowering heart rates, and increasing feelings of comfort and improved mood. Evolutionarily, humans have only had a short time to adapt to the new sounds that surround us (Jo et al., 2019). We went from being surrounded by the peaceful “silence” of birds chirping, wooshing leaves, and streams running to the constant buzz of an air conditioner, honking and auditory stimulation 24/7. 

I have always found it really interesting how many people cannot stand to sit in silence; needing to listen to music or at least have some background noise. I wonder if there is a correlation between people who enjoy silence and love being in nature, as well as the opposite, people who want constant stimulation prefer indoors. I have a small sample size so I do not want to make any definitive conclusions but out of my immediate family, the people who enjoy silence and white-noise nature sounds also really enjoy the outdoors, the others find the outdoors “boring” because they have grown up with constant visual and auditory stimulation. I really resonated with a quote from the textbook by Eduardo Arango: “When technology has nothing more for man, then nature will go on showing him her wonders” (Beck et al., 2018). I hope that my younger siblings grow to love and appreciate nature as much as I do someday, but currently, they are only interested in Tiktoks and watching movies, even while up at our cottage surrounded by nature. Have you observed a similar trend in your life? Or do you think there is no correlation? 

The song that immediately takes me back to a natural landscape is Mountain Sound by Of Monsters And Men. This song reminds me of being up at my cottage and the very long drive up to the top of Lake Huron. It's amazing how powerful music can be, just listening to this sound reminds me of summer and gives me the feeling of warmth and freedom from school. 

References: 

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

Jo, H., Song, C., Ikei, H., Enomoto, S., Kobayashi, H., & Miyazaki, Y. (2019). Physiological and Psychological Effects of Forest and Urban Sounds Using High-Resolution Sound Sources. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 16(15), 2649-. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16152649

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Hi Lauren!

I loved reading your post this week and I love that you included information about biomusic in your post as I have never personally heard of that before but now that you have mentioned it, I definitely have! I think its so fascinating how nature sounds can influence our well-being as well as underscore our inherent connection to the environment. When doing further research on biomusic for my own personal interest, I found a lot of information explaining the positive benefits of biomusic that I thought were worth sharing! Studies show that biomusic can help you concentrate, improve physical, intellectual and creative performance, strengthen your relationship with yourself and improve self-confidence (SMC, 2022). In addition, biomusic is also known to be a type of music that brings us closer to the natural world in a time that feels so unnatural which is also very interesting! (SMC, 2022).

Additionally, ​​your reflection on the human need for auditory stimulation, especially in today's technology-driven world, raises thought-provoking questions about our relationship with silence and nature. The correlation you observe between appreciation for silence and love for the outdoors versus a preference for constant stimulation indoors is something I never really thought of before but it honestly makes sense. To answer your question, I believe this resonates deeply with myself as I am someone who loves quiet, alone time while I read, paint or simply hangout in my room and I find constant noises and sounds around me to be very over-stimulating and irritating. I am also someone who loves the outdoors and going on walks or hikes and maybe that is why I love nature so much.. because I am able to be in a place that is calm, quiet and peaceful. While I do believe individual experiences may vary, I think this is a really cool observation you made that is worth exploring!! I would love to hear others opinion on this as well. 

Thanks again for sharing!!

Cheers, Natalie 

Stage Music Center In Acton and Winchester MA. (2022, October 2). What is biomusic? what benefits?. Stage Music Center In Acton and Winchester MA. https://stagemusiccenter.com/music-school-blog-winchester-acton-ma/2020/9/13/biomusic

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Music in Nature, Nature in Music

Hi everyone!

Welcome back to another week of blogging :) 

While contemplating the relationship between music and nature, I feel that there is a profound interconnectedness between these two realms that provokes a certain feeling or emotion or a coexistence of both. At their core, both music and nature embody fundamental elements of existence, evoking emotions, thoughts, and sensations that resonate deeply within the human experience. Firstly, I believe music resides in nature in many ways. From the gentle rustle of leaves in the wind to the rhythmic pattern of raindrops, from the harmonious chirping of birds to the powerful roar of thunderstorms, nature offers an endless amount of sonic experiences. Conversely, I believe nature resides in music in more subtle and emotional ways. Through symbolism and metaphors, I believe nature is used in music to convey deeper meanings and themes such as the blossoming of a flower to represent the emergence of new life or the crashing of waves at a beach to represent the rhythm of life. I believe many songwriters and musicians use nature as a source for their music and use natural landscapes as inspiration for their work. Simultaneously, I believe both nature and music work together to create a sense of emotion and feeling within humans and the most amazing thing about them both, is that the way humans experience them is never the same for two people...and that is the beauty of it!

In the textbook, songs are described as having the ability to, “Work in several ways: first, to get words and facts to stick in the minds of listeners; second, to paint a picture in the imagination; and third, to reach the emotions of the listener. Some songs evoke strong emotions, which makes them memorable” (Beck, 2018). I believe this to be so true as songs have the capacity to paint vivid pictures in the imagination, transporting listeners to different places, times, and emotional landscapes and when I hear specific songs, they take me back to a certain place or memory as if I am physically there. In my life, a specific song that provokes these strong feelings and emotions and takes me back to a natural landscape is “Coastline” by Hollow Coves. Listening to Coastline takes me back to my favourite summers on the beach where I grew up going to and reminds me of the simple joys of life and how music can make small moments that much more memorable. Coastline provokes feelings of calmness, serenity and peacefulness and brings back memories of the waves crashing at the beach, the smell of fresh summer air and the beauty of slowing down and being where your toes are. I think that’s the most beautiful thing about nature and music.. they both simultaneously connect us to the world around us, offering a gateway to deeper realms of understanding and connection and allow us to fully appreciate the beauty of where we are. 

To end this post, I would love to know from you: What songs take you back to a natural landscape and provoke these feelings and emotions? How are nature and music interconnected within your life? Do you think one is a more powerful force in your life as opposed to the other?

Thanks for listening and I’m excited to hear back from you!

Natalie :)

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

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To learn from the past is to better the future...

This week we were tasked to pull apart and inspect the following quote:

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

(Edward Hyams, Chapter 7, The Gifts of Interpretation)

To start, it makes sense that there is no particular worth in old things like artifacts, however there is worth in integrity, and integrity means keeping together the parts of a whole. This means that in order to maintain the integrity of a historical event, we need to maintain those ancient things that make it what it is. In order to maintain the integrity of the whole, you have to remember why it was ever important in the first place, and that is what makes it important to give merit to the ancient things that make up a whole. In the sciences, we learn about system thinking, and that the whole is merely the sum of its parts. In order to properly remember and interpret history, you have maintain the integrity of all the little things that make that historical event important.

To say that “the past is in the past” is to say that moments are only significant or important if they happen directly to you, and that there is no merit in remembering history, as we weren’t there and therefore it has nothing to do with us. In reality, interpreting history helps us understand ourselves, where we have been and what makes us who we are (Beck and Cable, 2018). History allows us to find inspiration in the stories of creators, leaders and survivors. Interpreting the past gives us the opportunity to learn from others’ mistakes and successes, and create a better future using that knowledge.

One of the most important lessons I took from this week’s content is that we need to always consider when interpreting history is to make sure we are doing so accurately and respectfully. The lessons we can learn from the past can be powerful, and it’s important that we’re portraying the past in the way the story was meant to be told, and avoid bias or personal attachments.

Beck and Cable (2018) said that “every natural site has a history and every historical site has natural resources.” I thought this quote connected this week’s content with past content. Although we have been focused so far mainly on how to interpret nature to others, history and nature have always been intertwined, and it is important as an interpreter to be comfortable with both. Tied into this concept (and every concept) is the impact of privilege that we talked about a few weeks ago. In Canada, it is always important to be aware and mindful that the nature and history that we are interpreting has been skewed by colonialism. One of the most respectful things we can do as interpreters is ensure that the stories we are telling about the history of the land reflects the actual truth.

Besides first-person and third-person interpretation (Beck and Cable, 2018) I think that writing is one of the most common types of interpretation of history (and nature) that we see in the world. All over museums and archives, natural parks and conservation areas, the written word can be found interpreting what you are looking at. Interpreting through the written word makes it possible for there to be an absence of a live interpreter while at the same time forcing a person to pause and interact with the item or place, as well as capture someone’s attention, so that they might learn something new (Hooykaas, 2024). Writing plays an important role in the interpretation of both nature and history, and is also something that helps keep memories alive.

What’s one way you have (or someone you know, or somewhere you’ve been) used writing as a way to interpret nature or history?

One way I interpret through writing is to write down important memories I’ve had (both good and bad) and that way I can go back and reminisce or pull guidance from an experience I’ve lived through :)

- All for now!

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

(Edward Hyams, Chapter 7, The Gifts of Interpretation)

Hooykaas, A. (2024). Unit 06: Nature Interpretation through History. [Lecture notes]. ENVS3000 Nature Interpretation. University of Guelph.

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Hi Heather!

Unpacking this week's blog prompt was rather difficult but I think you did a really good job analyzing the quote from Edward Hyams in a thoughtful and insightful way. You've captured the essence of the message regarding the importance of integrity in maintaining the coherence of historical events and your interpretation emphasizes the significance of understanding and remembering the past to comprehend the present and shape the future.

I also appreciate that you shed light on the importance of the concept of privilege when considering the interpretation of history as well as acknowledging the interconnectedness of history and nature, particularly in the context of colonialism in Canada. To add to your post, not only should we as interpreters ensure that the stories we tell are truthful, but also understand why it is so important that we are telling these stories in the first place! As Edward Hyams says in the quote, “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 encompasses the idea that we cannot define our own ‘history’ or ‘tracks’ simply by only considering the railways that we’ve been on, for our history extends beyond the present and the past is made up of the tracks that got us here. Recognizing the history that came before us to get us to where we are today is a major part of recognizing our own privilege and can be used to create a better future. 

To answer your question, one way I’ve used writing as a way to interpret nature and history is through journaling as well! One of my favourite things to do (when the weather is nice) is to go down to the river by my house and journal and let out all my thoughts and feelings or simply write about the beautiful scenery or the wildlife around me. I believe writing serves as a powerful tool for interpreting nature and history by allowing readers to engage with these subjects on an emotional and intellectual level through storytelling and narrating. 

See you next week!!!

Cheers, Natalie 

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Importance of Interpreting History

Hi everyone!

Welcome back to another blog!

In today’s blog, I will unpacking the quote by Edward Hyams stating, “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.” 

As I read this quote over and over again, trying to really grasp the sense of what he was trying to imply and express, I believe that this quote can be understood in many different ways depending on how you want to see it. In the first part of the quote, I believe he was trying to express how the importance and goodness of history and ancient things is not necessarily the history in itself, but rather the togetherness, the knowledge and the memories that come from it and how it is passed throughout time. For example, chapter 15 of the textbook explains that it's important to interpret history as, “Interpretation breathes life and meaning into past events, architecture, and artifacts. In doing so, it nurtures the development of a personal identity as individuals hear inspiring or thought-provoking stories of the past, and it forms values to guide living in the present” (Back, 2018). Meaning that, the importance of history and old buildings or museums is not the architecture itself, but rather how we remember history and keep the past alive in order to create our future and share these memories. 

The second part of the quote I believe represents the idea that we cannot define our own ‘history’ or ‘tracks’ simply by only considering the railways that we’ve been on…for our history extends beyond the present and the past is made up of the tracks that got us here. In the larger picture of the world, I believe this holds true in issues such as discrimination or war that were large conflicts of the past throughout history that created the world we live in today. To remember not only the happy stories of our past but also the tragic ones are what makes interpreting history so important. In my own life, the idea of things such as my great grandmother's wedding ring or my grandfather's artifacts from when he was in the army being passed down through generations comes to mind. It is not necessarily the wedding ring or the artifacts that are important to have, but more so the meaning and the stories behind them that show where I came from and how the lives of those before me have lived. 

As nature interpreters, I believe this is an important idea as it's our job to make an impact on people’s lives to become a part of their history. To help people see how history relates to their own lives by telling stories of the past is a way to help people remember and keep memories alive. To extend beyond merely what is physically present and instead create lasting feelings and memories. Can you think of any historical artifacts, buildings, etc that have made you remember memories or moments from the past? How has history shaped you into the person you are today?

I look forward to hearing back from you! 

Natalie :)

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

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05: The ways nature has impacted me? (free prompt)

I believe that spending time in nature offers numerous physical, mental, and emotional benefits. During the summer, I have complete access to nature trails and may spend countless hours outdoors. There may be obstacles such as weather and restricted access to these areas in the winter for our own safety. During the academic year, I attributed my lack of drive to a lack of time spent outside. I find that when I lose motivation, my other positive behaviours fall out of sync. I spend less time exercising, my dietary intake becomes more unhealthy, my sleep schedule becomes disorganized, and I feel inconsistent.  

This year, I decided to take control of my winter, knowing that these changes usually occur during this time of year. I wanted to find strategies to maintain a balanced diet, get enough and high-quality sleep, and have a regular gym regimen while also attending school and maintaining good grades. So I'd like to share some changes I made to my routine to ensure improved habits. 

My first major shift was to devote 30-60 minutes every day to outside activities. Now, I cannot say that I do this every day without fail, but I have been able to do so at least 5 days per week. It helps me to organize my thoughts without having to focus on schoolwork. During this period, I would either softly jog to get some physical activity in or take a walk along the trails in my neighbourhood. I would listen to a podcast, whether it was about amusement, learning, motivation, or self-discipline, to help pass the time. I believe this helped me relieve some of my tension and allowed me to unplug from school.

As we discussed several times throughout the course, the nature trails within the Aboretum made incorporating this practice into my day a breeze. After class, before leaving for home, I take a little walk through the Aboretum to reorganize after a few hours of classes. I sometimes have friends join me, which makes it much more pleasurable because we spend the most of our time on campus together studying. If you don't already, I recommend using the Arboretum to break up your day and get your mind off of school.

I also told myself this year that I would keep a consistent sleep routine. To ensure that I am properly refreshed, I try to get at least 8 hours of sleep each night. Again, are there times when I don't get a complete 8 hours? Of course. However, for the most part, I have been able to prioritize my personal health over academics, and I no longer have to pull all-nighters to complete projects. This has not only allowed me to be properly rested, but it has also taught me how to better manage my time during the day, decrease screen time, and focus on the tasks at hand. 

As a fellow student, I understand how tough it is to maintain healthy habits when there are so many assignments due each week, but it is critical that we remember to take care of ourselves. You may even discover that prioritizing your personal health during the school year has an impact on your academic performance. Can any of you think of a moment when you implemented new habits and saw improvements in your daily life?

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Hi there!!

I loved reading your blog post this week and I chose to write about a similar topic as well as I’ve been feeling the cold, gloomy weather a little extra this winter!! I chose to focus my blog post on the importance of mental health and the positive impact nature and being outside has on my overall well-being which connects to a lot of what you have shared. The textbook mentions that, “The removal of people from nature- and especially with more time spent with various screen technologies- has physical, psychological, social, spiritual, and environmental implications,” and I think that is even more prominent in the winter and especially for students who spend a lot of time on the computer! (Beck, 2018). I feel you deeply on the impact not being able to go outside and in nature has on my mental health and my overall motivation and well-being and I’ve come to realize just how important it is to take care of yourself during the winter seasons. I love that you shared some of the things you are doing to help take care of your mental and physical health such as going outside, getting consistent sleep and decreasing screen time. To answer your question, I really noticed improvements in my life over the pandemic in my first year of University when I felt almost forced to pick up new habits and take care of my health! The pandemic is when I discovered running and my love for the outdoors and when I started to implement new habits while trying to balance starting University for the first time. Now that I am in my last year of my undergrad, I’ve realized just how important these little habits are such as getting enough sleep, eating a well balanced diet, taking breaks from my computer and getting outside are for my well-being and I believe your health should always be your number one priority. 

Thanks again for sharing and for shedding light on an important topic!

Cheers,Natalie

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

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Nurtured by Nature

Hi everyone!

Welcome back to another week of blogging! I am very excited about this week's blog because I am able to write freely about any topic I would like and simply just write from the heart! 

After sitting here pondering about what to write, I took a moment to truly be at my feet and really check-in with myself and how I’m feeling to gain some inspiration and to be honest, the cold, gloomy days have been making me a little sad and anxious lately. It got me thinking about how much I miss the warm, summer days and how much of an impact the weather and being outdoors has on my mood and overall well-being. To be completely honest, I don’t think mental health is talked about enough even though it is something that all of us humans have and is so crucial to our overall human experience. 

The textbook shared some ideas about why humans spend their leisure time visiting nature centres or going on history tours and it all comes down to the simple human desire to gain meaningful experiences and improve the overall state of mind. The idea that, “True happiness produces more than temporary giddiness or some level of passing materialistic satisfaction,” could not be more fitting to describe the happiness gained from simply immersing yourself into nature (Beck, 2018). Something so simple that doesn’t cost a penny, but that makes us so infinitely rich. From improving mental and physical health, alleviating anxiety, increasing creativity, fostering inspiration and everything in between, the benefits of nature are endless and profound. So when I sit here and find myself merely existing in my own head or glued to the light on my phone screen, I am reminded of the beauty of nature and the world around me and how it feels to be immersed and grounded in such wonders. I’m also reminded of how important it is to take care of yourself and your mental health and to find those healthy outlets, whatever they may be. I will forever be thankful for the gift of nature and the joy it has brought me, even on the darkest days when all I needed was some light. If you take anything away from this post, it’s that I encourage you to find the simple things in life that bring you joy and that make your life better and to be patient with yourself as just like nature, nothing blooms all year. Keep going!

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/inspired-by-nature-vincent-van-gogh-quote--218776494384124175/

https://www.thegonegoat.com/inspiration-and-tips/hiking-quotes-caption

To end off this week’s blog post, I would love to know how you take care of yourself and your mental health? What are your healthy outlets? Do you also believe that nature improves and impacts your mental health? 

Looking forward to hearing back from you!!!

Natalie 

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

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4: Art and Nature

I think that art has been inspired by nature for such a long time, and it's no wonder why. Nature is beautiful, in so many different ways, that it's easy to draw inspiration from the world around you. Now me personally, I'm not really an artist, but I love looking at art, and I love nature, so art inspired by nature always make me feel good. So many artists are so talented at not just drawing landscapes, but showing their appreciation for nature through their art. I find that my favourite artists are able to connect with the intricacy of nature, such as ecosystem balances, and the connections within nature. My favourite paintings make me feel something, which I think is the key to successful interpretation through art.

Some of my favourite nature paintings: Top: Ivan Aivazovksi's The Ninth Wave (personal favourite, I have a print of it!). Bottom left: Claude Monets' Cliff at Varengreville. Bottom right: Albert Bierstadts' Mount Corcoran.

The most important part of art and nature is the translation of sentiment from artist to audience (Beck et al., 2018). As I said above, I find that my favourite pieces make me feel anything. The ones I added to this post make me feel small, in a good way. Nature is everywhere, and it's boundless, so I appreciate each of these paintings for the way that they can capture that feeling, at least to me.

My kind of nature interpretation through art would probably be the art of flower pressing. My dad and I used to do it when I was young, and I remember pressing the first flowers that would bloom in our backyard in the springtime. I find pressing flowers creates a memory, and as someone who loves preserving things and being able to remember them later, pressing flowers was the way to do that. I also like that I was able to do it with my dad, and that he taught me the way to do it, so I can do it with someone else in the future.

In conclusion, the relationship between art and nature is quite the dramatic interplay, shaped the most by the interpretations of both the artists and the viewers.

References:

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

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Hi Tamara!

I loved reading your blog post this week and hearing about your perspective on art and its ability to transcend your perspective and viewpoint on the beauty of nature. I particularly enjoyed hearing about your experiences of flower pressing with your dad and how this special form of art has created lifelong memories for you. Do you think flower pressing with your dad has created a tangible-intangible connection through art and nature as mentioned in the textbook? Has flower pressing allowed you to better interpret the “gift of beauty” in your own unique and personal way? 

Furthermore, I also found it interesting that you mentioned that you appreciate when art pieces make you feel small, in a good way…I think that’s such a unique perspective to have but it also reminds us that we are truly just a tiny speck on this beautiful place we call home and that the beauty around us is endless. I also believe that although most of us (including ourselves) are maybe not artists, it does not mean we cannot interpret nature through art or have our own unique feelings and thoughts about the world around us. The true beauty of art and nature is that it is not bound to a single feeling or a single emotion and can be perceived however you want it to be!

Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts and looking forward to hearing back from you!

Cheers, Natalie

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The Gift of Art Through Nature

When I sit here and ponder about the connection and symbolism between nature and art and who I am to interpret this connection, the first thing that comes to mind is the saying, “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder,” by Hungerford first expressed in the 19th century. In chapter 5 of the textbook, it explains how artists have historically resisted having anyone “explain the meaning” of a piece of art whether that be a painting or a photograph as it allows for the beholder to create their own individual interpretation and response to the work of art that is personal and unique to them (Beck, 2018). I believe this connects to the quote by Hungerford as art, just like nature, cannot be judged or perceived objectively, for what one person finds beautiful, another may not. This idea can be traced back to my first blog post where I described my evolutionary relationship with nature and the idea that the way I experience nature will be different than the way others experience it and that is its beauty! So, to answer the prompt of, “Who am I to interpret nature through art?...” The answer is no different than anyone else! While I might not be the most creative or artistic person and art is in no way my forte, that does not mean I am unable to interpret nature through art. The purpose of interpretation is to, "open the minds of people so they can receive- on the world's best receiver, the human brain," which does not limit based on skill, experience or person (Beck, 2018).

The idea of tangibles and intangibles is also significant as nature and art can be interpreted through the use of tangible elements that you can touch and see into intangible meanings that provoke feelings of love, beauty, or freedom (Beck, 2018). In my own life, one way I have interpreted “the gift of beauty” and created these intangible feelings through nature, is the lake at my family cottage. As I picture myself as a little girl sitting at the edge of the dock, staring out into the distance to see the water sparkle and feel the water splash up on my back, I am filled with so many emotions and feelings that are truly special to me. My cottage which is filled with beautiful memories with my family and grandparents, endless scenery and refreshing water, is also a place that has brought me so much joy, laughter and love. 

My beautiful cottage on Three Mile Lake, Huntsville 

To close this blog post with a question, is there a specific piece of art or place in nature that has inflicted this tangible-intangible connection in your life? What feelings or emotions did this connection provoke?

Looking forward to hearing back from some of you!! 

Cheers, Natalie 

Works Cited

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

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Privilege in Nature Interpretation

Most aspects of life are affected by privilege to some extent, and nature interpretation is no exception. I view privilege as things that increases the chance of success for an individual that are outside of or not fully determined by personal influence. Examples of this include birthplace, socioeconomic status, physical traits, and upbringing.

Privilege can affect who is likely to attend nature interpretation programs. For example, where someone was born or currently lives can make it more difficult to attend certain interpretation programs. Someone who lives downtown in a major city may have to travel much further to get to a national park, or someone who lives in a very small town may not have access to public transportation to get them to a program they are interested in. Another factor that affects who can attend is disability. People with disabilities may be unable to access trails or attend long walks. Additionally, disabilities may discourage people from wanting to attend if they do not think information will be taught in an accessible way for them. For example, people with hearing impairments may be discouraged by a lack of text (Beck et al, 2018). One other factor that could influence who is likely to attend a nature interpretation session is personal upbringing. Different people will feel different connections to nature based on how they were raised, and some people may not think of nature interpretation as a fun activity if they were not exposed to it as a child. For example, my parents took me and my siblings hiking very frequently as a kid, and they used to rent out cottages occasionally for part of the summer. This gave me access to explore nature with my family and form very positive experiences in nature as a child, which has influenced my attitude towards nature as an adult. Because of this, I would feel very excited to find a cool nature interpretation opportunity to attend, however some people may not seek that out or may not be interested in it even if they are aware it is happening.

Me as a kid thoroughly enjoying some smores outside.

Privilege can also influence how nature interpretation is delivered. For example, some people may have an easier time getting a nature interpretation job based on a variety of privileges such as where they grew up and what level of education they or their family could afford. Another way nature interpretation could be influenced is from the diversity of sources for nature interpretation material. Certain people may be more likely to get positions as researchers or want to pursue certain subjects. Often, people who know English are more publicized than people doing research in other languages, which can translate to what information is used for interpretation (Hooykaas, 2024). Overall, privilege ha many ways that it influences nature interpretation, and being aware of this can lead to more accessible and effective interpretation.

Works Cited

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

Hooykaas, A. (2024) Unit 3: Risk versus Reward in Interpretation ENVS*3000. University of Guelph.

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Hey Daniel,

I really enjoyed reading your post and hearing about your definition of privilege and how privilege plays a role in your own life. It is truly eye-opening to reflect on the amount of privilege we hold as individuals from the language we speak, the place we were born and the status we hold. In regards to nature interpretation, it is even more eye-opening when we reflect on how individuals experience privilege within the natural world and how factors such as public transportation, disabilities and hearing impairments can impact an individual's experience. I can speak for myself when I say that this activity has truly made me more grateful and opened my eyes to a lot of the invisible backpacks I carry. 

I strongly agree with you that personal upbringing is a huge factor that could influence who is likely to attend a nature interpretation session and that individuals perceive nature differently depending on how they were raised. To add to your idea, it was mentioned in the textbook that having preschool interpretive programs are important as many children associate nature with fear or disgust if not properly exposed to it and positive early childhood experiences can aid in combating this (Beck, 2018). This relates to what you mentioned about the positive experiences you had with nature as a kid due to your parents taking you and your siblings hiking frequently and I believe this is so important! Do you believe the natural experiences your parents gave you as a child are a form of invisible privilege? How has this impacted your life? 

I look forward to hearing back from you!

Cheers, Natalie 

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

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Unpacking the World of Privilege

Hi everyone!

Welcome back to my third blog post!

So far, we’ve talked about more light hearted subjects such as my evolutionary relationship with nature, my personal experiences with nature and my ideal world as an environmental interpreter and what that would entail. In this week's post, I am going to reflect on what role privilege plays in nature interpretation and how I have experienced forms of privilege within my own life.  As we head into this weeks blog post, I acknowledge that myself and those who read this, might feel moments of discomfort or uneasiness however, I believe this to be an important topic to reflect on. 

To begin, privilege to me is the advantages and benefits that come with having a certain identity such as race, gender, or economic status that often provides easier access to opportunities, resources and overall a heightened sense of well-being and success. As mentioned in the readings this week, many individuals born into more privileged environments, “are not taught to recognize their own privileges,” and after reflecting on my own life, I’ve realized that there are many ‘invisible backpacks’ I carry that I haven’t truly recognized (Gallavan, 2005). To get personal and transparent, I am white, middle class, speak English, was able to get a University degree with help from my family, was not born with physical or cognitive disabilities and wake up each day with a roof over my head and food on the table. Although many of these things might seem small or trivial, the impact they can hold is significant without even realising it. 

An experience in my life where I truly realized my own privilege, was when I volunteered at Kids Ability to assist in a swim program for children with disabilities. I learned through my time assisting these children that there are barriers and obstacles they face that do not make them any less of a person, but that gives a person like me an amplitude of challenges I will never have to face. If I connect this topic to the world of nature interpretation, the concept of privilege is particularly important when considering individuals with disabilities as they may face various barriers that affect their ability to access and interpret the natural world around them. For example, physical access to natural spaces that lack wheelchair ramps or accessible trails or inadequate visual or tactile tools such as braille or audio descriptions. As mentioned in the textbook, it is important as nature interpreters to integrate all audiences by providing opportunities for building social skills for those with and without disabilities while also recognizing our own privilege we carry in relation to those around us. Some suggested examples of proper etiquette when working with people with disabilities are: don’t “talk down’ to a person with a disability, speak in a normal tone of voice, be patient and encouraging, do not lean on a wheelchair or any other assistive device, offer assistance only when permission is given, etc (Beck, 2018). Most importantly, as an interpreter it is important to treat every person in your audience the way you would want to be treated and in regard to people with disabilities, “interpreting to people with disabilities involves getting people to participate and learn by building on their knowledge, interests, and skills, just as with any group of visitors!” (Beck, 2018). 

Thank you for reading and I hope you were able to take something away from this post, whether that be reflecting on your own privilege or gaining more knowledge on how to interact with those around you. As always, treat others the way you want to be treated and be kind!!!!!

Cheers, Natalie 

References:

Gallavan, N. P. (2005). Helping teachers unpack their "invisible knapsacks". Multicultural Education, 13(1), 36. https://link-gale-com.subzero.lib.uoguelph.ca/apps/doc/A137921591/AONE?u=guel77241&sid=bookmark-AONE&xid=9fe2f151

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

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My Dream Role as an Environmental Interpreter

Growing up, I loved opportunities to go on camping trips to various provincial parks in Ontario. I remember visiting Balsam Lake, Sibbald Point, Six Mile Lake, Killbear and Wasaga Beach Provincial Park. I loved exploring these natural areas and discovering new landscapes and environments within Ontario. 

A picture I took at Cape Breton Highlands National Park in Nova Scotia. 

 My ideal role as an environmental interpreter would be as a park interpreter at a provincial or national park within Canada. My role as park interpreter would involve assisting visitors to explore park trails and swimming areas while providing informational programs safely and respectfully. I would love to run programs such as nature journaling, biodiversity hikes or games such as Wolf Prowl which allows kids to take on roles as animals in an ecosystem. I would also like to help run evening programs that permit visitors to safely explore the trails in the dark which they might not do on their own. As a park interpreter, I would like to focus some programs on establishing people's relationships with nature and sustainability.  

The job of an environmental interpreter would require a variety of skills to deliver effective and meaningful interpretation. The skills I first thought of included plant and animal identification and knowledge of ecology, geology, and environmental stewardship. Additional skills in mapping, GPS, and first aid would also be crucial in a role as a park interpreter. Skills in these areas will allow me to be a reliable source of information that visitors can trust with their questions regarding the natural heritage of conservation areas. These areas of knowledge and skills I have listed are essential for environmental interpretation, however, I do not think they are the most important.   

A picture I took of a Japanese beetle (Popillia japonica) on a hike on the Brook Trail in Uxbridge.  

Before having the opportunity to work in outdoor education and to read the textbook, Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage: For A Better World, I thought knowledge of the environment would be the most important skill to have as an interpreter. However, you could have all the knowledge of nature possible but if you cannot communicate with individuals then you will not be able to effectively share the beauty of nature with others. As described by Beck et al. (2019), communication is the core of cultural and natural interpretation.  

In an environmental interpreter role, I would need to be skilled in applying different learning theories and styles to communicate natural surroundings to a diverse group of people. Having the ability to use the Cognitive Development Theory through numerous interpretation forums will allow me to interact with different age groups (Beck et al., 2019). Also, having skills working with multiple intelligences will allow me to connect with a variety of people who learn in different ways (Beck et al., 2019).   

A photograph I took in British Columbia at a Natural heritage site. 

As an outdoor education intern, I saw many kids with different interests and ways of learning. Some kids connected better to lessons involving games such as Predator-Prey where they got to run around but still learnt about ecosystem functions. Other kids preferred to explore ecosystems through nature journaling or nature photography programs. All kids were able to leave the outdoor education center with new knowledge and new feelings toward the environment through different pathways. 

By utilizing my knowledge of the environment with communication and teaching skills I could succeed as an interpreter at a natural heritage site such as provincial or national parks. Communicating my understanding of different environments and sharing my passion for nature would allow me to guide people to form their own connections and ideas of nature. 

References  

Beck, L., Cable, T. T., & Knudson, D. M. (2019). Interpreting cultural and natural heritage: For A Better World. Sagamore Publishing. 

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Hi there!

I really enjoyed reading your post and hearing about your ideal role as an environmental interpreter! That is so cool that you could picture yourself as an interpreter at a provincial or national park within the beautiful Canada and I love your ideas about how you would go about things. In particular, I love the idea of including nature journaling and games such as Wolf Prowl to your tours as they add a more immersive and enticing effect and allows there to be a variety of activities for everyone to enjoy! As we learned in class this week, the audience you are teaching is so important and at times it might be difficult to asses their needs. By adding different activites as you mentioned is key as it creates a style of teaching that is interactive and that varies in approach so the audience is engaged in a way that tailors to their needs. 

To add to your post, I am curious about the specific ways you would tailor your teaching approach to fit the needs of your visitors who all have different learning styles beyond simply using the Cognitive Development Theory? How would you teach auditorial vs kinesthetic learners on your tours? What about more visual learners? Also… what is your specific learning style? How can you use the way you learn as an interpreter to your advantage? 

Looking forward to hearing back from you!

Cheers, Natalie