ENVS3000 F24 Blog

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Unit 10 Blog Post

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?

With this being the last blog prompt of the semester I would like to reflect on what this course has taught me, how the content has shaped my view on my responsibilities as a nature interpreter, and how I can move forward and take some of these lessons with me. I honestly just took this course as an elective but have seriously enjoyed the content and interaction with everyone in this class. I think it is difficult to mirror this exact experience outside of this course, of sharing and reading other peoples experiences with nature and how sacred they are to them. Going into this, I never thought I would be given the opportunity to rehash some of my times in nature and have really never thought about how much they actually effected me. 

A belief I currently have, that has taken time to develop, is to keep my mind open to the experiences that nature has to offer. I do not think you have to be in the most aesthetically scenic landscape to see something new and/or interesting. I walk the same loop in Guelph and see different animals, plants, flowers, meet new people, and am a better version of myself afterwards each time. Some of my best memories in nature have happened at unexpected times. For example, I travelled out west to Vancouver this past summer to visit my roommates. We spent time in Whistler, Squamish, Lions Bay, and went to Gambier Island by boat. However, my favourite moment was the little hike we took right before heading to the airport, next to my roommate’s house in her suburban neighbourhood in North Vancouver. I am unsure if it was the way the sun was peeking through the massive trees, the last conversations we were having before the car ride to the airport, or the bittersweet feeling I was experiencing; but there was so much joy in that little mundane walk. Now, from a nature interpreters perspective, my roommate did a great job at telling us the little bits of information concerning our surroundings. She did this via storytelling in correlation to the area we were in, and it made me feel that much more connected to the area she had grown up in. By pointing out certain rocks, trees, and hills, and telling us the silly names of these objects that her classmates came up with, or the little anecdotes she had experienced herself; we all felt like we were there with her when they happened. I think that reflecting on this experience has taught me that interpreting nature for others does not have to be this whole elaborate operation. A memorable lesson of sorts can just feel like friends talking to one another and simply having a good time.

I believe that as a good teacher you have to be an even better learner. In my opinion there is always room for growth and improvement. Growing up, myself, and probably some of you reading this, have had a teacher that was a total rigid stickler. Their lessons felt almost militant and there was no room for error. It gets to a point where the information is being absorbed, but it is almost out of the fear of not being able to make a mistake. My current path is to become a high school biology/visual arts teacher and I hope to have the opposite reaction from my students. While there is value in structure, there is more value in being able to make a mistake and learn from it. I have enjoyed learning the content about learning styles and how we can effectively maximize the information we have in different methods. These militant teachers I previously mentioned, were pretty stuck in their ways of pen to paper, and lacked a lot of diversity in their lessons. I think my responsibility as someone who is teaching learners is to let the learners teach me. I can only understand the impact of the information I am relaying if they show me that they are absorbing it holistically. 

As an individual who is consciously making the effort to learn and grow, I think the approaches most suitable to me might change with time. Currently, I approach learning by asking questions about the content; whether that be to myself or my peers. I think it is very valuable to understand why we are learning this information and why it is important in context. I have a hard time just blatantly understanding theories, statistics, and stories without diving into the purpose of that information. In the example of the Tragedy on the Timiskaming, I had a hard time conceptualizing the reason for the trip in and of itself. Until I read the description and realized that the stereotype of the time period was to make men of the young boys. I would like to approach nature interpretation in the sense that every individual deserves equal opportunity, but every individual learns differently. I think this notion has become present through the blog posts, creating of the children’s podcast and ongoing adult podcast, and my overall learning in this course. 

As we wrap up this semester I have spent my own personal time reflecting on my growth as not only a student, but a person. I feel as though I can tackle other course content more efficiently because of some of the lessons I have learned in this course. I am now better at putting the purpose of a lesson in the context of a bigger picture and I have gained a sense of perspective of the professor or TA that is relaying said content. At this point, I no longer need my teacher to make the content appropriate and conducive to my learning, I can now do that for myself. Like I mentioned earlier, becoming more aware of who I am as a learner has truly made me a better learner; and hopefully a good teacher. Thank you to everyone who has shared personal stories and information, I have learned a lot of interesting facts about Canada and places all around the world! 

[sgenvs3000f24]

Hi Emily, your post was a great read!

Due to this week’s content, I have been reflecting on the different teaching styles implemented throughout my childhood. Just like you, I also found the militant style of learning to be ineffective and redundant. There is a reason why dynamic teaching styles, ones that implement storytelling and micro-environments, were the most memorable. As children, we simply wanted to be entertained and experience moments of awe and wonder. This was often achieved when learning happened in a non-traditional and unexpected way. In the article Why environmental educators shouldn’t give up hope, Rodenburg (2019) describes a story of school children finding a killdeer and how they began to care for it. As they learned more about the bird’s “story”, the bird suddenly got a face and an identity. The children formed a personal connection with the bird which gave them a reason to protect it. As you mentioned, we need to know why we are learning something. Often, that “why” can form naturally when we have a personal connection to something. If we expose kids to nature early on, we are allowing their “why” to form. Showcasing nature’s wonders can help kids to have an ever-curious mindset, which is beneficial long-term. If we know that kids are our future political constituency (Hooykaas, 2024), we need to make sure they are equipped with knowledge and empathy for their surroundings. For this to happen, we need to make sure that our schools foster an environment where nature is implemented and a variety of learning styles are utilized.

Reference:

Rodenburg, J. (2019, June 17). Why Environmental Educators Shouldn’t Give Up Hope. Clearing Magazine. https://clearingmagazine.org/archives/14300

Hooykaas, A. (2024). Unit 10: Nature Interpretation’s Role in Environmental Sustainability. Courselink. https://courselink.uoguelph.ca/d2l/le/content/898489/viewContent/3863610/View

[dpenvs3000semester]

Unit 10 Blog

Sedona, Arizona

As I continue on my journey of becoming a nature interpreter and using the skills that I have honed, I've come to realize that my personal ethic has been shaped by a combination of beliefs, responsibilities, and prioritizing connection, understanding, and empowerment. Throughout this course, I have been challenged to reflect on my role as an interpreter, and this process has not only shaped my understanding of what it takes to be an interpreter but also one that is responsible and an effective communicator. 

I believe that everyone has the capacity to connect with nature, regardless of their background or even prior experiences. Nature interpretation isn’t just about sharing facts or looking at cool landmarks, but it's about creating an opportunity for yourself and for others to feel a sense of wonder, curiosity, and connection to the world around you. One of my core beliefs is that having a connection to nature plays a vital role in nurturing the environment. When someone feels connected to something, it is more likely that they will care for it and go out of their way to make sure that they can do anything in their power to protect it. This belief of mine has been reinforced by many moments in my life where nature has given me more clarity and perspective. These experiences have helped me realize the power of nature and how I can use it to motivate others to discover their own moments of connection. Another belief that I have is that interpretation must be accessible and inclusive to everyone, whether it be children, adults, or even families. This means that as an interpreter my methods will meet diverse needs and learning styles tailored to the audience. My understanding is that everyone engages with nature differently and my role is to create an experience that resonates with people on an individual level while also encouraging a collective appreciation of the environment around them.

As a nature interpreter, I feel the responsibility to provide experiences that are not only meaningful but also educational. One way that I do this is by presenting issues in a way that is honest but also helpful. It can be easy to focus on the issues that our planet faces on a daily basis, but it is just as important to recognize the importance of balancing these realities with stories that are informative and an opportunity for action. Another responsibility of mine is to create a safe and welcoming environment around me. During the summer I worked at a science camp for kids, I learned the importance of fostering an environment where curiosity thrives. For example, I would encourage kids to ask questions about the natural world and share activities with them to help them understand complex concepts. By doing this I was able to make science relatable and engaging, which I believe is a crucial part of interpretation. While I do think it is important to teach others, I believe that maintaining my own sense of curiosity is quite important also. If I'm not genuinely passionate about what I am sharing with others it is unlikely that they will be either. Part of my responsibility includes continuing my learning and staying open to new perspectives and methods of interpretation.

Throughout this course and my experiences, I have come to realize which approaches align best with my personality and communication style. One of the many ways in which I express this is by combining storytelling with interactive activities. I realized that storytelling has a way of connecting with people on a deeper level and a more emotional one which leaves a lasting impression. During Science camp last summer, I would use storytelling to explain concepts such as the ecosystem. Instead of presenting facts that some kids would not be able to understand, I would frame a narrative of how all living things are interconnected and present themselves in everyone’s everyday life. This approach helped me keep the kids engaged while also letting them see their role in nature. Hands-on activities have always been a cornerstone of my approach, an example of this has been when I would help kids build simple models of things that they would be learning that day, whether it be a magnifying glass or even a catapult! 

Feedback has always been a huge part of my success and growth, throughout this course I have received numerous things that I can improve and further enhance my craft. One of the most significant ways I have grown as a nature interpreter has been through the process of self-reflection, and teaching camp last summer has been a way for me to apply my skills in a real-world setting. It has also helped me realize that I have learned the importance of flexibility and adaptability which is very crucial when engaging with kids that have a unique way of learning. As I continue to grow as a nature interpreter, I am committed to deepening my understanding of how to create an experience that leaves a lasting impact. I plan to explore new tools and techniques that will help me reach a broader audience and cater to different learning styles.

My personal ethic as a nature interpreter is built on the foundation of curiosity and continuous learning. I believe my role is not just to educate others but to inspire them and show what this beautiful world truly has to offer. As I move forward in this field, I carry with me the lessons that I have learned and the feedback that iu have received. By embracing responsibility I hope to contribute to a world where nature is not only sustained but celebrated.

[sgenvs3000f24]

Hi there!

Thanks for sharing your experiences at the science camp, I feel like it certainly encapsulates the importance of encouraging curiosity at a young age. The bulk of this unit focuses on children, particularly why nature is important for them and how we can use it to facilitate their learning. Talking to my younger siblings, I have noticed a change in the approach that schools are taking when integrating nature into their curriculum. It seems there are fewer (if any) school trips to zoos, aquariums, and parks. These trips are sometimes the first times that many kids get introduced to “nature” (or a form of it), especially if they are from urban settings. There are also many opportunities in these excursions for teachers to encourage curious thinking. Nature can help kids to see the world from a different perspective which can ultimately improve their empathy and groundedness. If we encourage kids to ask questions about nature while also encouraging them to be comfortable with its mysteriousness, we are revealing to them that they can navigate the world with patience. As David Suzuki said at the Art Gallery of Ontario in 2012, ”nature needs time to reveal her secrets..she is unbelievably resilient and productive IF you give her time”. Not every kid can form a connection with nature easily, it might take a few field trips for it to happen. But as I learned myself with this course, exposure to nature interpretation is the first step in this journey.  

References: DavidSuzukiFDN. (2012, July 20). David Suzuki and Richard Louv @AGO. [Video]. Youtube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F5DI1Ffdl6Y

[sgenvs3000f24]

A Gen Z Dilemma (Unit 10 Blog Post)

Growing up at the start of this millennium has left me, and probably most gen Z kids, looking for a healthy balance between nature and technology. My life seems to have been divided almost perfectly in half in relation to these two things. The first half of my life (0 to 12 years old) was filled with outdoor play, blissful curiosity, and an intrinsicness to  nature. These formative years were happening in the early 2000s, an absolutely vivacious time for a kid to be growing up in! Most of my ethics and core values that I still carry with me today were developed in elementary and middle school, right before the release of the first iPhone. One of the things I am constantly grateful for (and one that I’m always bragging about to my younger siblings haha) is that I got to experience a world that hadn’t been enthralled with technology. Kids still had access to television, video games, and computers, but the extent and application of technology was different from today. Yes, I would sometimes spend hours playing Poptropica on my desktop, trying to complete “Spy Island” for the 7th time. You could also find me reading Geronimo Stilton books or watching Disney Channel after school. But when all my homework was done, I would always end my days playing outside with the neighborhood kids until the sun went down.

(Outdoor play helped to develop friendships, made us aware of our natural enviornment, and facilitated an explorative mindset. "SillyBandz" were mandatory for outdoor play!)

In elementary school, technology was integrated into our learning in small degrees and would mostly be used as a complementary tool (i.e. a singular class period where we use chromebooks to research something). Even though these small nudges towards “modern learning” were important and cool, I learned much more effectively via traditional means, specifically using my kinetic and auditory skills. As we explored learning styles in Unit 2 of this course, I quickly realized that my view of nature is heavily impacted by my preference for auditory and kinetic learning. When I do something with my body, when I create something with my hands, I feel like I am an active part of this world. When I hear things, like the chirps of a bird or the sounds of the waves crashing on a shore, I can easily become grounded. I feel the physical impact of the sounds and my body feels recentered. Growing up, I’ve always been a curiously-active yet realistically-grounded child. My auditory and kinetic needs were met in elementary and middle school due to the broad range of learning opportunities we were given. Implementing nature was key in facilitating all types of learning in school. Yearly trips to the zoo, the aquarium, sugarbushes and local parks enriched my curious mind and helped me to find my “magic places”. Rodenburg (2019) was correct when he said that young kids love microenvironments, because I would zone in on many of the animal exhibits on these field trips and become fascinated. I would attentively observe the animal’s movement, predict its next action, and be pleasantly surprised when I was wrong. Rodenburg (2019) insists that a teacher should facilitate this type of learning, one in which the child experiences the joy of discovery. I feel that nature is the true teacher in a child’s life, helping to grow an ever-curious mind. To this day, I have many questions about nature…I find her to be mysterious and strange. However, after much introspection and (more importantly) outrospection, I have come to the humbling conclusion that I will likely never find my answers. WE can never find these answers. Nature is something that evokes questions that do not NEED to be answered. We can make assumptions, create stories shaped by our own experiences, and scientifically structure the natural world to make it “make sense”, but is nature something we can truly “explain”? 

Throughout this course, we have explored nature’s impact on different aspects of the human experience. Some units brought forth ideas and connections that would have never occurred to me, such as nature interpretation via music and history. Other topics that were introduced, such as art and privilege,  gave me an opportunity to delve deeper into beliefs that I already had. It was interesting to read my classmates' blogs and see that we all become passionate about nature through different topics. Even if two people discussed the same topic, their stories and perspectives were still uniquely their own. Simply put, “everyone comes into nature from a different direction …but we know it when we see it” (Richard Louv, 2012). This was an integral part of interpretation that I needed to be aware of. As an interpreter, my responsibility is to understand that everyone’s beliefs and priorities are different. In order to make someone care about nature, my interpretation needs to be personal and interdisciplinary. Having a reservoir of knowledge from this course will help me to produce interpretation programs which can inspire curiosity and gratitude for nature. 

My ultimate goal for my interpretive endeavors is to emphasize the deep connectedness that humans have with nature. I want my audience to discover THEIR place in nature, similar to how Neil Everenden (Rodenburg, 2019) described it: 

“...we do not end at our fingertips. Instead, we radiate out into the landscape. We are inextricably bound up in the processes of life. With every breath in and out we are part of the natural systems that surround us. Our role today is to guide our children, in ways that resonate with their interests and development, to realize this connection.”

As the 2010s introduced my generation to a heap of new technologies, I felt a shift in how people lived their lives and what they prioritized. With social media, we became hyper aware of our place in the social realm and we began to fixate on comparing our lives with others. We began to display our lives, instead of actually living it. Our ideas of “fulfilling” lives became distorted in this digital landscape due to the constant reminders on social media telling us we are not doing enough with our time and with ourselves. Due to this, we have become “so determined these days to chop our time into smaller pieces and fill each moment” (Suzuki, 2012). I want my interpretation to bring awareness to this generational problem. I want my audience to understand that, in many ways, technology hinders our connectedness to each other and to our surroundings. Just like how I did throughout this course, I want my audience to regain their sense of place in nature and in this world.

[akenvs3000f24]

BLOG 9: Amazing Things About Nature

Sunset in Greece - Kong, 2024

When posed with the question, “what's the most amazing thing you know about nature?” I admittedly get a bit stumped. I’m reminded of my various encounters I’ve had with nature, and how in one way or another, everyone around me is fascinated in the same way as I am, maybe even more.The world holds an uncountable number of wonders, and yet everything is interconnected one way or another in a complicated web. It's fascinating to see how every being in the world synergizes with each other. Plants provide oxygen for organisms through photosynthesis, decaying matter is processed by decomposers like fungi and different kinds of invertebrates, and we all know about predators and prey. Everything in this world holds a purpose, no matter how big or how small; nothing goes to waste. So, for this particular blog post, I decided to focus on mother nature as a whole. Nature itself is amazing in a way that words can’t describe.

I want you, the reader, to take a moment to just imagine. You’re sitting atop a hill, and the sun has just begun to set. A salty breeze of wind blows past you, carrying the scent of the sea. It’s cool and refreshing, but mingles with the warmth of the setting sun. Just above you, there’s a few seabirds circling above the water. Maybe one dives down into the ocean, looking for a fish. The sky is painted with a mix of orange and pinkish hues, and the sea stretches as far as you can see, beyond the horizon. Now picture what lies beneath the waves. There’s a breathtaking diversity of animals, the very core of nature. From gentle giants like the blue whale to the microscopic plankton. One, we can’t even see with the naked eye, yet they play such a large part in creating the oxygen within the water which every marine organism relies on. Blue whales have the ability to store carbon within their bodies, and play a big part in the transport of nutrients to keep the ecosystem balanced; directly aiding in climate change, which I’m sure we all know is an increasing problem within our world.

And humans are in the center of it. Every sip of water, every breath, every weather pattern. It’s humbling to think that the water we see today has likely traveled the entire world, strong enough to shift continents and nurture ecosystems. No matter where you are in the world, take a moment to really look and think, to appreciate nature in the various ways it works and contributes to the world. Because nature is really, really amazing.

[sgenvs3000f24]

Hi Angela! Similar to you, I was also struggling to choose just one thing about nature that I found interesting. But as you described in your post, the mere complexity and intricateness of nature is one of the things that make it incredible. The picture that you shared is a great example of how, at any given moment, there is a web of activities that connect various organisms together. Everything in nature is dependent on something else, and that includes humans as well.

Considering all this, it is deeply concerning how disconnected we are becoming from nature. Our “biological moorings” towards nature suggests we are MEANT to be integrated with the environment (Beck et al., 2018). However, technological advancements and urban-living have conditioned us to find satisfaction in inauthentic things (Beck et al., 2018). Today’s youth has become noticeably dependent on their electronics, making them prone to developing the so-called ”nature deficit disorder” (Hooykaas, 2024). This is not ideal because involvement with nature should start at a young age to facilitate the developmental process that later shapes our perceptions of the natural world around us (Beck et al., 2018). If it were not for this course, I myself would’ve been uneducated about the importance of nature and would’ve been on my way to developing this disorder. Much like myself, I think most people are too preoccupied with their school or job to realize that engaging with nature is an integral part of the human experience. Once in a while, we need to encourage each other to disconnect from our modern lives and connect back into the web of life that sustains this planet.

References:

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

Hooykaas, A. (2024). Unit 08: The Role of Technology in Nature Interpretation. Courselink. https://courselink.uoguelph.ca/d2l/le/content/898489/viewContent/3863610/View

[sgenvs3000f24]

Unit 9 Blog: Nature's Healing Hands

A truly fascinating aspect of nature is its ability to provide us emotional clarity and encourage personal reflection. Nature rehabilitation programs allow participants to let go of their “modern-day stresses” for a few moments and evaluate their inner selves. When delivered with care and patience, these interpretive programs can easily transform into life-changing experiences for participants going through hardships. Equine-assisted therapy (EAT), in particular, is increasingly gaining recognition as a valuable approach in the mental health space (CTV News, 2015). The emotional (often therapeutic) bonds that we form with animals is a peculiar component to analyze through a scientific lens. Throughout my own blog, I’m sure you have noticed an ongoing theme of spirituality and nature. I’ve tried to embed my personal insight into our weekly prompts with an underlying focus on the ancient human-nature soul connection that I believe we have. The concept of using nature as a way to connect with your inner self and possibly heal traumas further strengthens my beliefs about human-nature connectedness. For these reasons, I wanted to delve further into EAT and find out how this horse-human relationship works. 

Horses are highly intelligent animals with a keen sensitivity to human emotions (Yorke et al., 2008). They can use their high perceptivity to respond in ways that creates a sense of mutual understanding between us. With their ability to detect subtle changes in our emotions, they can respond accordingly and make individuals feel understood without needing words. This silent, non-judgmental presence is especially beneficial for trauma survivors who may struggle to articulate their experiences (Kemp et al., 2014).Through equine therapy, participants engage in activities like grooming, leading, or riding horses, which helps foster trust and emotional regulation (Yorke et al., 2008). Horses’ reactions to human emotions often mirror the participants’ internal states, offering immediate feedback on their behaviors and feelings (Kemp et al., 2014). This mirroring effect helps individuals process and regulate emotions, improving self-awareness and reducing symptoms of anxiety (Yorke et al., 2008). Research suggests equine therapy can lead to significant reductions in PTSD symptoms, especially for veterans and individuals with severe trauma histories (Johnson et al., 2018).

Living in a healthy state involves being content and comfortable in all aspects of ourselves. While our physical health can be altered by eating well and working out, we often have trouble navigating our emotional and spiritual health. Caption Pam Smith (from the above video) mentioned how she struggled with these aspects of her life after her time in the army: “...if [the soul] is not healed, you don’t ever feel like you have it together” (CTV News, 2015). Often, in discussions about conservation, we look at nature through a scientific or economic lens. Our focus tends to be on food chains, climate change, food scarcity, and reduced biodiversity. Perhaps the awe of nature has conditioned us to focus more outward and less inward (Beck et al., 2018) but I suggest we start to reverse that. Looking inwards, we may finally realize that nature’s embrace is integral in our healing journeys, our mental health, our emotional regulation, and our inner peace. 

References:

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

Johnson R. A., Albright D. L., Marzolf J. R., Bibbo J. L., Yaglom H. D., Crowder S. M., Carlisle G. K., Willard A, Russell C. L., Grindler K, Osterlind S, Wassman M, Harms N. (2018). Effects of therapeutic horseback riding on post-traumatic stress disorder in military veterans. Mil Med Res. ;5(1):3. doi: 10.1186/s40779-018-0149-6. PMID: 29502529; PMCID: PMC5774121.

Kemp, K., Signal, T., Botros, H., Taylor, N., & Prentice, K. (2014). Equine facilitated therapy with children and adolescents who have been sexually abused: A program evaluation study. Journal of child and family studies, 23, 558-566.

Yorke, J., Adams, C., & Coady, N. (2008). Therapeutic value of equine-human bonding in recovery from trauma. Anthrozoös, 21(1), 17-30.

CTV News. (2015, June 24). War Horse: Equine assistance therapy helps vets with PTSD. Youtube. [online video]

[krenvs3000f24]

Blog Post 7

Music in nature can be found almost anywhere, from hearing the cascade of a waterfall to birds chirping and bugs buzzing. The sounds heard in nature are their form of music, and I always find that every noise can blend into such a soothing harmony. The ambience created in nature, especially when you do not hear any noise from people or traffic, really allows for such calming emotions to be felt. I find myself more of a productive studier when I listen to ambient music, as it allows me to focus. I think this is exactly the same way in nature, as hearing the ambience wildlife creates will enable me to focus on my thoughts and appreciate what I see more. 

I could go on about the ambient sounds created by nature and how it’s crazy to think that the wind blows against trees just happens to harmonize with crickets chirping, but tons of artists and composers bring elements of nature into music. I grew up with a solid music background as I played in a string orchestra and played the saxophone and piano, so I have played a lot of classical music, and it always stood out to me how certain composers try to mimic the sounds of nature in their music. A piece I remember giving me so much trouble learning as a kid was called A River Trilogy by John O’Reilly, a common piece for kids in the band to learn. It was memorable once I learned how to play it, but the composer combined two pieces, Deep River and Water is Wide, which tries to curate a sound reminiscent and inspired by the sounds you hear from water and what emotions it provokes.

Now, a couple of songs that IMMEDIATELY take me back to natural landscapes are Self Control by Frank Ocean, Drew Barrymore by SZA, Skeletons and Telekinesis by Travis Scott. The first two are extremely calming songs that I remember standing out so much during a cottage trip my friends and I went on. These two songs would always find their way into the song queue when we were all just sitting by the water and talking about the most random conversations. I remember at night after we lit a bonfire, we could see the stars and lightning across the lake because the skies were so clear, which we weren't used to in Toronto. We were listening to Telekinesis, and the combination of seeing the lightning and the stars was genuinely one of the most scenic moments I’ve experienced and created a core memory. I tried taking pictures of the lightning and stars, but they came out so blurry so just trust me on how cool it looked.

[sgenvs3000f24]

Hi Krishna,

Thanks for sharing your post! Growing up with a musical background, I’m sure you have a deeper understanding of the music in nature than the average person. This makes me curious about your perspective on mathematical Platonism, which is a theory suggesting there is a universal mathematics that occurs in music (Gary et al., 2001). It can apply to the harmonization of an orchestra or the harmonization of the sounds in a forest. You mentioned that you become more focused and productive when you listen to nature's ambience, which is the experience of many people I know. Our brains are complicated and we still don’t know why they do certain things. Why do our brains generate clearer thoughts, calmer feelings, and are more productive when listening to nature sounds? Could it be because we become synced with this supposed ‘universal mathematics’ via sound waves? This theory is definitely thought-provoking, but it is currently unproven. Despite the lack of supporting evidence, we shouldn’t just cast it aside. Just like the story of the Six Blind Men and the Elephant, the theory of mathematical Platonism highlights that we have trained incapacities that inhibit us from seeing the entire ‘truth’.  

On the topic of universal sounds, I wanted to tell you about the meaning of “om” (aka the word you say when you meditate). Om is believed to be the “cosmic vibration that permeates everything in the universe, from the smallest atoms to the galaxies” in Hindu culture (Krishna Collections, 2024). This was so cool to find out and I feel it could relate to everything we learned in this unit. Perhaps the harmonization of nature sounds that you mentioned (the wind whistling and the crickets chirping) produce a universal sound like om? I would love to hear your opinion on this! 

References:

Gray, P. M., Krause, B., Atema, J., Payne, R., Krumhansl, C., & Baptista, L. (2001). The Music of Nature and the Nature of Music. Science, 291(5501), 52. https://link.gale.com/apps/doc/A69270354/AONE?u=guel77241&sid=bookmark-AONE&xid=fb9366a8

Krishna Collections. (2024, October 26). Significance Of Om. Krishna collections. https://www.krishnacollections.ca/significance-of-om

[sgenvs3000f24]

Unit 7 Blog Post

Living in the 21st century, our easy access and constant exposure to music can make us numb to its significance. Music is integral in all human cultures and has been key in community building since ancient times (Sahi, 2012). Some even hypothesize that music “predates humans--that rather than being the inventors of music, [humans] are latecomers to the musical scene” (Gary et al., 2001). This provokes questions about the origins of music and the reasons for its existence. In regards to culture and history, it is likely that human music “developed in contact with local nature and thus reflects the nature” around particular communities (Sahi, 2012). The extrapolation and utilization of nature in music is quite evident in many cultures, particularly in their folk music. Rune singing used for Finnish folk music contains rich lyrics describing the natural environment around them (Sahi, 2012). 

 After this week’s content, I was inspired to inspect my own culture’s music to see how large of an impact nature had on it. As I delved back into my favorite old-school Bollywood songs, I found that the most beloved songs usually drew inspiration from the natural environment. Nature is an excellent source of unique melodies and sound patterns that help facilitate the rhymes and vocals particularly for Bollywood songs. There are likely universal mathematics (Gary et al., 2001) within certain nature-sounds that catch our attention more than others, ones that invoke inspiration for composers. You can find music in nature when you listen to the wind whistling through mountains, or by observing the rhythmic pattern of the rain falling on the ground, or through the chirping of the birds. Bollywood composers often choose female singers with very high pitched voices (i.e. Lata Mangeshkar), which I believe they do to resemble song birds. Musical patterns in nature bring forth specific feelings for listeners (i.e. thunder correlates to fear/surprise, while ocean waves correlate with calmness), which is why percussion instruments are used to mimic abiotic sounds/patterns and add depth of a song. For example, Bollywood composers use the tabla to mimic thunder sounds and the ghunghroo to imitate rustling leaves.

Pyaar ki ek kahani is a song I particularly love because it takes me back to the mountain landscapes I visited in India. The background vocals remind me of how my voice echoed when I was in the valley areas or near river banks. The softness of the male singer’s vocals invokes the same feelings of airiness that I felt at that high altitude. The female singer’s voice mimics the beautiful sounds of the birds in the morning.

(Song context: The male character lives a peaceful life in a mountain village of Manila, India. A new journey starts for him when he meets a city girl. The use of mountain scenery, a song that creates a mountain ambience, and the characters’ story all work together to create feelings of airiness, openness, and blissful naivety.) 

Reference:

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

Gray, P. M., Krause, B., Atema, J., Payne, R., Krumhansl, C., & Baptista, L. (2001). The Music of Nature and the Nature of Music. Science, 291(5501), 52. https://link.gale.com/apps/doc/A69270354/AONE?u=guel77241&sid=bookmark-AONE&xid=fb9366a8

Sahi, V. (2012). Using folk traditional music to communicate the sacredness of nature in Finland. Spiritual Values of Protected Areas of Europe Workshop Proceedings. (pg 129-132). https://www.silene.ong/en/documentation-centre/spiritual-values-of-protected-areas-of-europe-workshop-proceedings#Proceedings_Spiritual%20Values_PAs_Europe.pdf

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Unit 01 Blog

Over the years my relationship with nature has become a very personal part of my life, for me it's not just about being outdoors or looking at beautiful scenic views it's about the connection that I feel to the world around me. Nature has always been a source of calm and clarity, a way to step outside of my daily routine and the stresses that are going on in my life. As my family and I have explored many different places, we've realized that nature provides beauty and a sense of peace and perspective.

One of the most significant parts of my relationship with nature is the journeys and hikes I've been on with my family. Together we've travelled all around the work experiencing some of the most breathtaking landscapes this world offers. From places like Machu Picchu to the red rock formation in Sedona, Arizona, and even the forests of Puerto Rico, each one of these places has deepened my appreciation for nature. Every destination is more than just a beautiful view, it is a reflection of how the people of that culture live there. I've always found it fascinating to see how different communities connect with the environment and how this connection shapes their daily lives.

However, out of all the places that I've been to none of them have left an impression on me like Torres del Paine in Chile. This was the most breathtaking place that I have ever been to, the towering mountains, pristine lakes, and open skies created a view for me like no other. I can still remember the feeling to this day standing with my family and taking in such a raw and untouched view. It was at that very moment that I came to realize the sense of relaxation and ease, it was unlike anything that I'd ever experienced before. All the noise and stress of my daily life seemed to vanish and was replaced by a deep sense of peace.

The experience that I had in Torres del Paine was a turning point for me, it showed me that nature has more to offer than just an amazing view, it reset my mind to offer more clarity and remind me of the bigger picture. Looking back now my relationship with nature has evolved drastically over time, it started off with me just wanting to see different landscapes or being "forced" to go on a hike with my family, but has quickly become something much more meaningful. Nature has been a center point of my life where I can just step away from everything and take in the beauties of this world and what it has to offer.

As I continue to explore new places all around the world, I know that my connection with nature will only deepen and keep growing. It has become a vital part of me and a place where I feel most at peace and a reminder of how beautiful this world really is.

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**Unit 1 response repost; I did not reblog it last time, I only "replied" in the comments**

Hi Dev, 

Thanks for sharing your personal journey with your relationship with nature. I liked how you mentioned that nature has the ability to ground you and help you find peace. This notion resonates with me as well. When I go outside and feel the sun on my skin and hair, I feel so present and so “alive”. My energy also increases and I feel more comfortable in my body. Reading through a few of our classmates’ posts, I realized that we all share this experience with nature. As much as humans have tried to distance themselves from nature (for survivability and comfort), we cannot deny the deep connection that we have with it. Isn’t it interesting how our minds relax so easily when we are in nature? Just closing your eyes, breathing in the fresh air, and listening to the wind whooshing by can make us feel better? The fact that we all have these similar experiences with nature makes me question the validity of our modern lifestyles. Not only are we reducing the time we spend in nature, we are actually deteriorating nature to fuel our urban lifestyles. If we know deep down that we need nature to feel at peace, to feel grounded, and to live a happier life, then why are we risking it for temporary gain?  With that being said, I do believe that our minds are telling us what our body/soul require: more integration with nature. 

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Unit 04 Blog Post

Art serves as a powerful medium for conveying emotions and experiences that resonate deeply with the human experience. Art has a unique ability to evoke emotions because it taps into our senses and memories, allowing us to interpret its meaning through our personal experiences. A simple landscape, for example, might stir emotions of peace or nostalgia, reminding us of moments spent in nature. Art brings nature into spaces we may not expect to encounter it like in a gallery or a home and allows us to appreciate the natural world’s beauty without having to be in it. 

I don’t consider myself an artist, but I’ve come to realize that you don’t need to be a professional to appreciate or communicate nature’s beauty. For me, interpreting nature through art is about drawing attention to the details like the patterns on a leaf, or the movement of water in a waterfall. These details normally get overlooked in our fast-paced lives but when looking at it through a painting can remind us of simple moments spent in nature. My favourite moments spent in nature are when I'm outside and I hear the wind rustling through the trees and feel the sunlight on my skin and the colours of the landscape in front of me. If I were to make a piece of art I would want to capture these feelings in an art form to convey my personal experience with nature to others. 

Interpreting nature through art is all about sharing personal experiences with nature with other people no matter their background. A simple photo or painting of a landscape is sharing someone's perspective of nature with the world. Art has the ability to reach people who may not otherwise have access to nature or who may view it through a different perspective like living in a different climate region.

Interpreters must not only share information but also instil a deeper sense and connection to the environment. "The gift of beauty" is about awakening a sense of responsibility towards nature . When people are inspired by the beauty of their surroundings, they are more likely to care for and protect them. In my own experience, growing up with frequent trips to local parks and summer camps instilled a deep appreciation for nature. Those experiences helped me realize that beauty in nature isn’t just an aesthetic quality, but also taught me the importance of conservation. Although I don't make active efforts in conservation efforts in my community, simple things like picking up trash and reminding those around me not to litter are my way of protecting the environment around me.  We appreciate the beauty of nature through art, and art captures what the real world around us is like through different perspectives. If we did not make any conservation efforts, the art of nature would change around us. Our beautiful landscapes that we hang on the wall would be pictures of deforestation and our photographs of river streams would have garbage all over it. Nature interpretation through art can be a powerful tool for this, as it captures the emotional feelings of our surroundings and shares it with others in a way that can inspire long-lasting appreciation and action. It fosters not only an appreciation for nature but also a desire to conserve. 

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**Unit 4 response repost; I did not reblog it last time, I only "replied" in the comments**

Hi Layal, great job on the post!

I feel like the modern lifestyle of the 21st century has facilitated the so-called “nature deficit disorder”, characterized as the broken bond between ppl and nature (Beck et al., 2018). It seems likely that we don’t appreciate nature’s  “gift of beauty” as heavily as we should, simply because we do not get enough access to it. Your description of being in nature seems to coincide with how most (if not all) people describe being in nature. They tend to describe how they become more aware of all their senses, they feel less anxious, and they get into a sense of “flow” (Csikszentmihalyi, 2008). The consistency of these positive feelings seems to suggest humans are “wired” to be in close connection with nature (Beck et al., 2018). Just like you, one of my favorite parts of being outside is feeling the sun’s warmth on my skin. Most of the time, my mind will focus primarily on this feeling of warmth and forget about the other (possibly stress-inducing) things that it was previously focused on. Possibly, this could exemplify a moment of “flow” that Csikszentmihalyi talked about in his TedTalk. This state of flow is usually accompanied by a “sense of place” in which you feel content being exactly where you are and being comfortable feeling how you are feeling. I believe that if people were more aware of these positive feelings that nature facilitated, they would be more inclined to participate in nature interpretive programs and support conservation efforts. 

References:

Beck, L., Cable, T. T., Knudson, D. M. (2018). Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage: For a Better World. Sagamore Publishing LLC. Csikszentmihalyi, M. [TED]. (2008, October 22). Flow, the secret to happiness. [Video]. Youtube.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fXIeFJCqsPs

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Unit 3 Blog Post

Our interpretation and experience of nature reflect privilege in some fascinating ways. It's about who gets to enjoy specific areas without concern, not only about who has access to them. Living in Lebanon, where I grew up, my life revolved much on the natural surroundings. The waves always bring me serenity; even now, I carry that connection everywhere I go. But when I consider my experience, this link is a privilege.

The scene in Lebanon is breathtaking—rolling hills, immaculate beaches, and rich forests. This natural beauty urges you to explore and let yourself vanish in it. Still, even growing up there, I observed that everyone felt it differently. For many, particularly in areas affected by war, nature was not a place of serenity but something far away or even dangerous. For some, the perk was just being free to stroll in the forest without thinking about landmines or security.

While I considered sitting by the shore a haven, not everyone shared that experience. Some people, particularly those from more metropolitan or industrialized areas, needed more access to those serene settings. Growing up, they could not fly off and find peace in nature whenever life seemed unbearable. In that regard, privilege might be as fundamental as feeling comfortable enough to enjoy nature and having it within reach.

Large amounts of ammonium nitrate kept at the Port of Beirut in the capital city of Lebanon exploded on August 4, 2020, resulting in at least 218,000 homeless estimates in addition to US$15 billion in property damage and at least 7,000 injuries.

Even after relocating to Canada, I still hunt out beaches and lakes. Though I know that not everyone can do the same, I find methods to stay close to the natural environment. Whether in Lebanon or Canada, access to the environment is typically shaped by elements including money, geography, or even cultural heritage. Though it would appear that everyone might have grown up with respect for nature, this is only sometimes the case.

Studies support what I have observed. Whether in Lebanon or elsewhere, socioeconomic level is a crucial factor in determining who can really enjoy nature. Green areas are more abundant in wealthy neighbourhoods of cities, depriving others of access in less affluent areas. In nations like Lebanon, where the country is blessed with natural beauty, not everyone appreciates that equally. One could consider privilege as essential as the capacity to feel at peace by walking beside the shore.

My favourite place is in South Lebanon, Jezzine. Regarding nature interpretation—whether it's an instructional lecture or a guided hike—those with that access and tranquillity typically define it. This can result in a particular story that only captures one experience with nature, therefore omitting alternative means of interaction with the surroundings. For those of us who grew up feeling that solid connection to nature, it's easy to take for granted that it's not something everyone has access to or can value in the same manner.

In this sense, privilege transcends mere riches or prestige. It's about experiencing freedom and safety in nature. It's about not feeling like visiting a park, a forest, or a beach is a luxury or something out of reach. Having those encounters makes me grateful; they have changed my perspective on the world. However, they also remind me of how we may provide more chances for everyone to experience that same tranquility and connectedness wherever they live.

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**Unit 3 response repost; I did not reblog it last time, I only "replied" in the comments**

Hi there! 

I was very fascinated by your take on Lebanese nature sites, particularly how it differed from others around you. When you mentioned that most people were scared to walk in parks because they were afraid of land mines, it really made me realize my own privilege. I spent my childhood in India, and although it was riddled with poverty, I did not have to worry about war. Socioeconomics is already restraining enough when it comes to nature accessibility, but having the fear of dying must’ve added many more psychological barriers in Lebanon. Nature can also be a form of therapy for many people, so the fact that some people do not have access to this therapy highlights another form of privilege. Some individuals (particularly in lower socioeconomic positions) may not be able to utilize nature for therapeutic purposes because they do not have enough time or money to do so. This is a tragic outcome of privilege: even if you are living in the most beautiful of places, sometimes your life circumstances can inhibit you from fully experiencing it. I appreciate you sharing this because it truly made me more grateful for the freedoms and peace that living in Ontario provides. Simply living in a certain part of the world can have such immense applications in what one can and cannot do, but experiencing nature should not be one of them because it is the most basic thing that a human should be given.

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Unit Two Blog

This week I will be sharing the kind of role I would ideally have as an environmental interpreter. I feel like when a lot of people think of how a person would have a career in nature interpretation, they think of careers like tour guides in parks and conservation areas. However, I am not someone who enjoys public speaking or standing up in front of an audience, so I think a job as a tour guide would not be a good fit for me. When I see myself as an environmental interpreter, I see myself acting in roles that are more behind-the-scenes, such as figuring out ways to make research more palatable by designing infographics that could be displayed in conservation areas.

A job like this would require a great deal of graphic design as that would be required for making the infographics visually appealing and enticing to readers/viewers. The job would also require a background of knowledge in environmental studies to ensure that the displays would actually be informational. I have a small background in graphic design having worked under professional designers in a sign company and have always found their jobs incredibly interesting as design is required for so many different things. These various aspects of the job are both things that I find incredibly appealing and could see myself excelling at. This type of job would permit me to embrace my creative side while also continuing forward in my journey in environmental studies and conservation.

An additional perk of this type of job would be that it is not limited to any specific natural area, because any park/beach/forest can have info-panels detailing its history, local flora and fauna, and interesting facts! This would then allow me the opportunity to be located essentially anywhere or even to travel between locations to provide this type of service for many different natural areas. I find this to be an incredibly appealing aspect of this career as I would have the chance to explore and learn about many different natural environments and then embrace them by finding creative ways to pass on that knowledge to others.

Something interesting about this style of job (and basically any other job in environmental interpretation) is the requirement for the interpreters to be able to cater to individual groups. However, this job would not be like a tour where I would be able to think on my feet and adapt to specific groups as I get to know them, instead I would be designing something more permanent (or at least semi-permanent) that needs to resonate with people of all different demographics. To do this I would need to be immersed in the cultures surrounding the natural areas where I am employed and really try to understand local values and ideals so that I can bring that sort of thing into my work. While that aspect of the job would certainly present a challenge, it is one that I would embrace happily and with a great deal of excitement.

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**Unit 2 response repost; I did not reblog it last time, I only "replied" in the comments**

Hi Alex,

Your post really broadened my view on what an environmental interpreter can look like. The first image that pops up in my mind when I think of an interpreter (in any field) is someone that is engaging upfront with the audience members. After reading your post, I now realize that there are various “helping hands” that facilitate the interpretive experience. By designing infographics for interpretive programs, you would not only be utilizing your own skills to your advantage but you would also be accommodating visual learners. What's great about visuals is that they can also enhance the “presentation” that a nature guide would be giving. I am on the opposite spectrum as you, because I personally love to present in front of large groups and engage one-on-one. If I were a nature guide presenting an interpretive program, I could utilize your infographics as a “way to stretch” (Beck et al., 2018) after long durations of talking. It can also be an “anchoring” element to the presentation. If I were to stray too much from the presentation’s theme, an infographic (or any visual element) can help me to get back on track.

You also highlighted some under-looked advantages of being an environmental interpreter: having the flexibility to work individually/remotely (like in your case) and having the opportunities to explore (i.e. travel outside country/province/city to different nature sites). When combined together, these things can sprout interpretive programs which are personal, unique, and productive.  

References:

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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Preserving the Past to Protect the Future

We often hear the phrase, "history repeats itself," but what does that really mean when it comes to the ongoing fight to protect nature? Specifically, how does it relate to Canada’s old-growth forests? When I started to unpack the quote by Edward Hyams that says, “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.” This idea made me think about the preserving of old-growth forests and Indigenous histories. They are not just acts of environmentalism but are about maintaining the integrity of a larger, more complex story. Let’s break it down and see how this applies to both history and the fight for Canada's forests.

“There is no peculiar merit in ancient things” 

This part emphasizes that knowing or possessing things from the past isn’t valuable just because they are old. The same goes for the forests. Preserving them simply because they are ancient is not the point. But in the broader sense of history, we don’t preserve something just because it’s old. It’s about what it represents and the lessons it holds. In the case of forests, they are more than just trees; they are living parts of ecosystems, homes for species, and sacred spaces for Indigenous communities.

“But there is merit in integrity” 

This is where moral responsibility comes into play. While the age of something doesn’t inherently make it valuable, the integrity of what it represents does. Old-growth forests stand as symbols of environmental balance and cultural heritage. If we allow them to be destroyed, we lose that integrity. Knowing the full picture, both the environmental significance and the cultural stories tied to these landscapes, is crucial. It's not just about preserving something old; it’s about preserving the integrity of the whole.

“Integrity entails the keeping together of the parts of any whole”

History isn’t black and white. The same can be said about old-growth forests, where the destruction of even a part affects the integrity of the whole ecosystem. Similarly, history is made up of both the good and the bad, the beautiful and the ugly. We must acknowledge all of it, even the uncomfortable truths, so we can learn from them. When it comes to the forests, we know the environmental impact of logging and have heard about the cultural importance of these lands to Indigenous people ensures, but we also have to try and understand the economic side. Then we are seeing the full picture.

“If these parts are scattered throughout time” 

This is where historical interpretation plays a key role. Even though some aspects of a story may have been lost, forgotten, or withheld in the past, our responsibility in the present is to gather that scattered knowledge. New information may emerge, shedding light on aspects of history we didn’t fully understand before and we can put it together, and present it for future generations. For example, while much of Canada’s natural history is recorded, Indigenous knowledge and stories related to these lands were systematically silenced during colonization. Today, part of maintaining integrity in our environmental storytelling involves seeking out those lost voices and ensuring they are heard.

“Then the maintenance of integrity entails a knowledge, a memory, of ancient things” 

This is when we step in as nature interpretation or other guides in this field. In doing so, we give history its proper merit by understanding it fully and acknowledging the humane, moral paths that should have been taken. This idea rings true in the fight for old-growth forests. For centuries, Indigenous voices were ignored, and their connection to the land was overlooked. But now, we have the chance to collect that knowledge and share it with the world, ensuring that these forests are protected, not just for their age but for what they represent.

“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.”

The past isn’t something we can leave behind. It's always with us, shaping our present and future. Issues like racism, colonialism, and environmental destruction are not “over” just because we aren’t actively engaging with them every day. The fight for old-growth forests is a perfect example of this. Indigenous communities are still fighting to protect these sacred lands, even though the larger public may think the issue was settled long ago. The past continues to influence present actions, and we must acknowledge it.

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Hi Alex, 

Your post was very concise, easy to follow, and well-structured. Great job! Utilizing the old-growth forest as an example and reference point really emphasized the main points you were trying to convey. As you mentioned, the silencing of indigenous voices during talks of conservation is an ongoing issue that needs to be addressed in our country. When we look at how the government handled the criticism/protest against the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion (see attached video), it is evident that the perspectives of indigenous communities are STILL swept aside. There was also the shocking news in 2022 about hundreds of unmarked graves being discovered in Canadian residential schools. It seems that our government lacks the integrity that Hyams alludes to in his quote. Maintaining accurate depictions of our history by including both the good and bad aspects of it are integral in forming a healthy society. According to Beck et al. (2014), a “healthy society [has] a vivid/accurate memory of its past for both reasons of celebration and introspection”. Ignoring the past is a slippery slope because, by not acknowledging and studying our mistakes, we are prone to making those same mistakes again. In regards to our natural environment, we need to practice viewing the Earth through a wider lens. Once we realize that the Earth’s resources are not made solely for human consumption (as the railroad did not exist just for a small moment in time in Hyams’ anecdote), we can place merit in other living things and natural sites.

Reference:

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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Unit 6 Blog Post

With this quote, Edward Hyams urges readers to acknowledge the past and how it has shaped our present. He emphasizes the need to broaden our knowledge and perspectives about the world. In order to see the “full picture” we need to educate ourselves about our past. As we delve deeper into our heritage, our sense of self may be questioned or strengthened. Sometimes, our sense of self may be intertwined with feeling like we are at the “center of the world”, that we hold more importance than other things around us. Hyams probes into this feeling of perceived importance when he describes a railway station only existing for the moment that a train passes through it. The passengers on this train only acknowledge the railroad for the short moments that they see it, and after that, they forget about it. In reality, that railroad had existed before the train passed through it and it will continue to exist long after the train has gone. This anecdote illustrates our tendency to package an event/experience exclusively using our own point of view. We forget that there are other perspectives, that world history does not only mean human history (Beck et al., 2018). Once we begin to acknowledge that the significance of a place/event is richer than how it is showcased in the present moment, only then can we begin to absorb its interpretation and “transcends time and space” via its personal authenticity (Beck et al., 2018). Kids from Cabot Elementary School discovered the authenticity of their school once they were taught about the school’s rich history (Beck et al., 2018). Learning about the struggles that the school’s founder endured made the students more grateful for what they were privileged with and this heightened their sense of self.  To give the past meaning, Hyams suggest we maintain its integrity. We should aim to keep the past as accurate as possible by maintaining our knowledge and memory of ancient things. It is often tempting to give the audience “what they want or expect” in hopes to keep them entertained (Beck et al., 2018). The basis of most media nowadays is entertainment, even if the subject at hand involves historical events. Movies like Pocohontas or Mulan pick and choose historical facts to enhance fictional stories. Their goal is not to give us an accurate depiction of reality, but rather to entertain us. On the other hand, movies like “The boy in the striped pajamas” do the opposite. This movie uses a fictitious story to emphasize the raw and atrocious truths of the Holocaust. Countless movies, books, documentaries, artworks, museums throughout the decades retell the horrors of the Holocaust and many more interpretations will surely follow. But why must we be reminded of the Holocaust so often? Is it not insensitive to the families of the survivors that we display their traumas? Yes, reliving some parts of human history sows guilt, uncomfort, and sadness for many of us. But let’s reconsider Hyams’ quote: “there is no peculiar merit in ancient things but there is merit in integrity”. There is no merit in what happened in the Holocaust, but maintaining the integrity of the TRUTH has merit. Maintaining and retelling the truth will help us to make sure it does not happen again.

(Holocaust memorial in Berlin emphasizes how the past should not be hidden or re-written; we need to look back at the past to navigate the present and prepare for the future)

References:

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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Unit 05 Blog Post

With an open blog prompt this week encouraging us to discuss what we are thinking about, I can't deny that most of my thoughts are about the fall season, thanksgiving, and Halloween! With that in mind, I would like to discuss the intersection of nature and the supernatural, which feels especially relevant as Halloween (one of my favourite holidays!) approaches :)

I'd like to start off by mentioning how darkness changes our perception of nature. A familiar place you've known your whole life -- like your backyard or a forest trail, can feel unknown or mysterious at night. This concept reminds me a lot of playing tag in the dark with my sister and cousins as a little kid, during which the darkness would play tricks on our senses. At night the woods felt more alive, with every rustling leaf and snap of a twig sending chills down our spines. The power of the unknown in nature can make even the most innocent games feel eerie and exhilarating.

Furthermore, the campfire, a quintessential outdoor experience, frequently becomes a gateway to the world of spooky tales. Why is it that humans gravitate towards telling scary stories outside in nature, when accompanied by friends and only the light of a fire? The atmosphere seems to encourage a feeling of spookiness. The flickering firelight casts shadows on trees, creating ghostly figures, while the crackling wood echoes with the sounds of the forest. This atmosphere makes the perfect setting for storytelling, where nature itself seems to participate in the tales, adding to the eerie ambiance. I find that our tendency as humans to lean into the mystery and unfamiliarity we experience by the campfire endearing and is likely a common experience most people can relate to.

On the topic of storytelling, there are many intriguing natural history myths or urban legends that tie in with fall themes, like the legend of Sleepy Hollow’s Headless Horseman or the lore surrounding the Jersey Devil. These stories often have roots in real landscapes and cultural histories, adding layers of meaning to the natural environment. Furthermore, many Indigenous cultures have rich mythologies involving nature spirits or creatures tied to specific natural landmarks (like forests, rivers, or mountains). It is no coincidence that modern horror media takes inspiration from these stories, like Until Dawn using the Wendigo myth.

These stories and adaptations often tie supernatural elements to natural forces. These tales tap into deep fears about nature's untamable power and our smallness or powerlessness in comparison. I believe the human fascination with the supernatural originates from a fear of the unknown in nature—storms, plagues, wild animals, and much more. Early cultures explained these phenomena in myths and legends, which still resonate with us in modern horror because they tap into primal fears about survival and the natural world.

Next, specifically when thinking about Halloween and horror, I find it interesting (but not surprising!) that most horror movies are set in outdoor environments such as woods, fields, or isolated cabins. The game I mentioned above, Until Dawn, is no exception, as it focuses on a group of adults trying to survive on Blackwood Mountain. One of the most classic horror movies, Friday the 13th, takes place at Camp Crystal Lake (or "Camp Blood"). Some other examples of horror films like The Blair Witch Project or The Ritual use the forest as a character itself, full of unknown threats and primal fears. Nature can be beautiful, but when it turns against us or becomes uncontrollable, it becomes terrifying.

I know a lot of people aren't into horror movies, but they're certainly not the only genre of fall media that incorporates nature as a major aspect of the storytelling. If you haven't seen the Cartoon Network mini-series Over the Garden Wall, it is a fall classic that I honestly can't recommend enough. Over the Garden Wall perfectly blends the calm essence of autumn with the spooky, magical, and supernatural elements of Halloween. This show emphasizes fall being a transitional season, where life starts to decay, and the boundaries between reality and the unknown become thinner. The two protagonists, Wirt and Greg, travel through the woods which act as an ever-present character that uses the changing seasons to symbolize the journey between life and death. It is a show that successfully combines the feelings of whimsy and eerie, reflecting the dual nature of fall. I think it is a great example of a show that uses natural elements to enhance storytelling, and the fleshed out natural aspects truly provide a sense of place as you watch Greg and Wirt travel through "The Unknown".

To conclude, I hope my post for this week has provided some insight into the themes of nature, the supernatural, and human storytelling all within the context and atmosphere of fall and Halloween.

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Hi Alyssa, I never thought to make the connection between nature and the supernatural, so thanks for sharing such a unique perspective on the topic! Throughout our time on Earth, humans have always had a tendency to create stories/theories about how the world works. Usually the things that generate the most abstract stories are the things that we know the least about. These things seem to be “bigger than us” and trying to grasp their entirety can be either unattainable or unfathomable. Imagine if we were living 500 years in the past, a time in which there was little to no scientific basis for explaining nature. We would need to interact daily with nature for our survival, which meant we would see the best and worst of it. Naturally, our brains would make stories to make sense of the intense complexities of the world around us. I think that the relationship between nature and the supernatural was generated because humans have always been afraid of nature. To help us cope, we use art and theory to make sense of things. Sometimes these abstract thoughts lead to discovering scientific revelations, which gives way to scientific theories and disciplines. Currently, we have developed various scientific disciplines which help us to understand how certain aspects of our world work. Developed in the 1960s, environmental education (EE) is one of the newer disciplines being used to help us navigate environmental crises (Wals et al., 2014). Let’s all be glad that we are living in a time that disciplines like EE and science education (SE) can bring some clarity to the mystery that is nature!

References: Wals, A. E., Brody, M., Dillon, J., & Stevenson, R. B. (2014). Convergence between science and environmental education. Science, 344(6184), 583-584.

Also, if you enjoy Halloween, I recommend watching this Youtube series to get in the spooky mood. They went exploring in a haunted forest!

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Unit 5 Blog Post

A significant portion of environmental education (EE) research seems to focus on bridging the gaps that hinder participation among underserved communities. Based on the article “Convergence between science and environmental education”, most individuals who engage in citizen science (CS) tend to be white, over 50 years old, middle class, well-educated, and typically females. To encourage more diverse audiences to participate in CS, it was suggested that “the focus should be on engaging [...] rather than compensation, to avoid restricting participation to upper-middle-class members of society who make up the traditional volunteer pool” (Merenlender et al., 2016). Although this line of thinking may work theoretically, I believe this solution is inadequate and overly simplistic about real world challenges. 

Like we discussed in previous units, access to environmental awareness and participation is somewhat of a privilege. There are many people who wish to take part in CS, but they simply do not have the time and/or money to set aside for it. A few times in the course readings, it was mentioned that ethnic and lower-income households were the hardest to include in nature programs. Although the readings presented reasonable causes for their lack of participation,  I believe the core issue was overlooked: environmental participation does not pay the bills. Coming from an ethnic and lower-income household myself, I found the proposition of “engage rather than compensate” to be ridiculous. There seems to be a disconnect between Merenlender et al. and the demographics they were seeking to understand. If a goal of EE is to increase participation/inclusion of underserved communities, there needs to be greater emphasis on empowering these communities to make the programs more attractive. Instead of fixating on questions like…

-What factors inhibit ethnic and lower-income communities from participating in nature programs? How come most CS participants are white females with college degrees?  

We need to go directly to the communities we are researching and ask them….

-What will encourage you to participate in nature programs? How can we make it easier and more comfortable for you? 

With the first set of questions, I am sure you could feel an undertone of “us vs them”. Depending on where you lie in the socioeconomic spectrum, one or both of those questions might’ve made you slightly uncomfortable. Again, I can come from a lower-income and ethnic household, and reading all the reasons why my community cannot do something leaves me with a feeling of stagnation. When someone gives you reasons why you cannot do something, you feel it is not worth trying. You feel much more optimistic about trying something when you hear…

    “Hey, I know you have these limitations to why you can’t do this specific thing, but we really want you to participate. What do YOU think we can do to help you out here? We will do our best to provide you with resources that can help you.” 

Let’s lead with optimism and not encourage rhetoric of division by highlighting that certain groups can do something, while others can’t.

"Whether you think you can, or you think you can't—you're right."

This quote by Henry Ford perfectly sums up how focusing on limitations can stunt progress and can sometimes be self-fulfilling. If nature programs can change their outreach strategies to underserved communities by emphasizing opportunities rather than limitations, it can be transformative for the CS space!

Reference:

Merenlender, Adina M., et al. (2016). Evaluating environmental education, citizen science, and stewardship through naturalist programs. Conservation Biology 30.6 : 1255-1265.

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Unit 3 Blog Post

Our interpretation and experience of nature reflect privilege in some fascinating ways. It's about who gets to enjoy specific areas without concern, not only about who has access to them. Living in Lebanon, where I grew up, my life revolved much on the natural surroundings. The waves always bring me serenity; even now, I carry that connection everywhere I go. But when I consider my experience, this link is a privilege.

The scene in Lebanon is breathtaking—rolling hills, immaculate beaches, and rich forests. This natural beauty urges you to explore and let yourself vanish in it. Still, even growing up there, I observed that everyone felt it differently. For many, particularly in areas affected by war, nature was not a place of serenity but something far away or even dangerous. For some, the perk was just being free to stroll in the forest without thinking about landmines or security.

While I considered sitting by the shore a haven, not everyone shared that experience. Some people, particularly those from more metropolitan or industrialized areas, needed more access to those serene settings. Growing up, they could not fly off and find peace in nature whenever life seemed unbearable. In that regard, privilege might be as fundamental as feeling comfortable enough to enjoy nature and having it within reach.

Large amounts of ammonium nitrate kept at the Port of Beirut in the capital city of Lebanon exploded on August 4, 2020, resulting in at least 218,000 homeless estimates in addition to US$15 billion in property damage and at least 7,000 injuries.

Even after relocating to Canada, I still hunt out beaches and lakes. Though I know that not everyone can do the same, I find methods to stay close to the natural environment. Whether in Lebanon or Canada, access to the environment is typically shaped by elements including money, geography, or even cultural heritage. Though it would appear that everyone might have grown up with respect for nature, this is only sometimes the case.

Studies support what I have observed. Whether in Lebanon or elsewhere, socioeconomic level is a crucial factor in determining who can really enjoy nature. Green areas are more abundant in wealthy neighbourhoods of cities, depriving others of access in less affluent areas. In nations like Lebanon, where the country is blessed with natural beauty, not everyone appreciates that equally. One could consider privilege as essential as the capacity to feel at peace by walking beside the shore.

My favourite place is in South Lebanon, Jezzine. Regarding nature interpretation—whether it's an instructional lecture or a guided hike—those with that access and tranquillity typically define it. This can result in a particular story that only captures one experience with nature, therefore omitting alternative means of interaction with the surroundings. For those of us who grew up feeling that solid connection to nature, it's easy to take for granted that it's not something everyone has access to or can value in the same manner.

In this sense, privilege transcends mere riches or prestige. It's about experiencing freedom and safety in nature. It's about not feeling like visiting a park, a forest, or a beach is a luxury or something out of reach. Having those encounters makes me grateful; they have changed my perspective on the world. However, they also remind me of how we may provide more chances for everyone to experience that same tranquility and connectedness wherever they live.

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Unit Two Blog

This week I will be sharing the kind of role I would ideally have as an environmental interpreter. I feel like when a lot of people think of how a person would have a career in nature interpretation, they think of careers like tour guides in parks and conservation areas. However, I am not someone who enjoys public speaking or standing up in front of an audience, so I think a job as a tour guide would not be a good fit for me. When I see myself as an environmental interpreter, I see myself acting in roles that are more behind-the-scenes, such as figuring out ways to make research more palatable by designing infographics that could be displayed in conservation areas.

A job like this would require a great deal of graphic design as that would be required for making the infographics visually appealing and enticing to readers/viewers. The job would also require a background of knowledge in environmental studies to ensure that the displays would actually be informational. I have a small background in graphic design having worked under professional designers in a sign company and have always found their jobs incredibly interesting as design is required for so many different things. These various aspects of the job are both things that I find incredibly appealing and could see myself excelling at. This type of job would permit me to embrace my creative side while also continuing forward in my journey in environmental studies and conservation.

An additional perk of this type of job would be that it is not limited to any specific natural area, because any park/beach/forest can have info-panels detailing its history, local flora and fauna, and interesting facts! This would then allow me the opportunity to be located essentially anywhere or even to travel between locations to provide this type of service for many different natural areas. I find this to be an incredibly appealing aspect of this career as I would have the chance to explore and learn about many different natural environments and then embrace them by finding creative ways to pass on that knowledge to others.

Something interesting about this style of job (and basically any other job in environmental interpretation) is the requirement for the interpreters to be able to cater to individual groups. However, this job would not be like a tour where I would be able to think on my feet and adapt to specific groups as I get to know them, instead I would be designing something more permanent (or at least semi-permanent) that needs to resonate with people of all different demographics. To do this I would need to be immersed in the cultures surrounding the natural areas where I am employed and really try to understand local values and ideals so that I can bring that sort of thing into my work. While that aspect of the job would certainly present a challenge, it is one that I would embrace happily and with a great deal of excitement.