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Thank you for sharing your journey as a nature interpreter in this final blog post. Your reflections are very thoughtful and insightful and provide a glimpse into the passion you bring to this field.

I especially appreciated your emphasis on the transformative potential of effective interpretation, as highlighted by Beck et al. (2018). Your description of interpretation as a journey of discovery, where both the audience and the interpreter set out on a quest for connecting and understanding nature, resonated with me deeply. It's apparent that in your approach to nature interpretation, you incorporate the underlying principles of stewardship, inspiration, and connections.

I also really enjoyed reading about your experiences of hiking in Spain and Costa Rica. I felt that this effectively illustrated the transformative power of nature and the insights one can gain from it. And with this, your descriptions brought aspects of reverence and a sense of awe, while also highlighting the importance of personal experiences in shaping our understanding and appreciation of the natural world around us.

Additionally, I felt that your experience as a wildlife hotline operator demonstrated your dedication to providing reliable information to people that they can then make informed decisions with when out in nature. By creating a culture of trust and transparency, you contribute to the conservation efforts and the protection of biodiversity, even in urban settings.

Overall, your final blog post effectively captures your values as a nature interpreter and I applaud you for your actions in inspiring others to connect with and care for nature. I have greatly enjoyed reading your insights and thoughts throughout your post and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors as you continue to share the wonder of the natural world with others!

Blog 9: My Journey as a Nature Interpreter

Beginning the journey as a nature interpreter is much like starting an adventure. It's stepping into a world filled with wonder and exploration, where every step forward is guided by your own ethical principles. This journey unfolds amidst the breathtaking beauty of nature, where you navigate through a world of beliefs, responsibilities, and individual approaches. As I chart my course through this dynamic landscape, I find myself drawn to the profound insights and wisdom shared by scholars like Beck et al. (2018), whose perspectives illuminate the transformative potential of effective interpretation and have guided me throughout this course.

As articulated by Beck et al. (2018), building new knowledge, values, and beliefs is at the heart of effective interpretation. This resonates deeply with my own ethos as a nature interpreter. I see interpretation not merely as a means of conveying information but as a journey of discovery—a process through which both interpreter and audience embark on a quest for understanding and connection with the natural world. Embracing openness to new concepts becomes essential, as a gateway to deeper insights and revelations that enrich the interpretive experience.

Emerald Lake, British Columbia, photo taken by me

Travel, as advocated by Beck & Cable (2018), emerges as a powerful catalyst for personal growth and enlightenment. Each journey into the heart of nature becomes an odyssey of self-discovery—a pilgrimage that expands the horizons of perception and deepens the connection to the natural world. Having hiked the majestic mountains of Mallorca, Spain, I found myself enveloped in the landscape's rugged beauty, where towering peaks and lush valleys unfolded before me in a mesmerizing display of nature's grandeur. Traversing ancient forests and rocky terrain, I experienced moments of awe and wonder, as the sheer magnitude of the mountainscape instilled a sense of reverence and humility within me. Similarly, exploring the volcanic terrain of Costa Rica offered a glimpse into the raw power and dynamism of the natural world. Trekking amidst smouldering craters and lush rainforests in Costa Rica, I was immersed in the raw power and dynamism of the natural world. The contrast between the fiery energy of the volcanoes and the serene beauty of the surrounding rainforest was awe-inspiring. As I navigated the rugged terrain, each step brought me closer to a deeper understanding of the delicate balance that sustains life on our planet. These experiences left a lasting impression on me, fostering a profound respect for the forces of nature and the interconnectedness of all living things.

In Mallorca, Spain, in 2020, right before Covid-19

Central to the role of a nature interpreter is the responsibility to communicate truthfully and authentically, as emphasized by Beck et al. (2018). In a world fraught with misinformation and half-truths, upholding integrity in sharing knowledge becomes paramount. Whether leading interpretive walks, delivering educational programs, or engaging with audiences through digital media, I strive to present information rooted in scientific rigour and genuine reverence for the subject matter. 

My experience as a wildlife hotline operator last summer further underscored the significance of this responsibility. Through daily interactions with callers, I had the opportunity to educate the public about Ontario's native species, imparting accurate and comprehensive knowledge to address their inquiries and concerns. By drawing upon scientific research and field expertise, I aimed to provide reliable information that empowered individuals to make informed decisions when encountering wildlife. This commitment to fostering a culture of trust and transparency extends beyond my role as a hotline operator and permeates every aspect of my work as a nature interpreter. By cultivating a deeper appreciation for the natural world and instilling a sense of stewardship among audiences, I strive to contribute to the conservation efforts and protection of our precious biodiversity, especially in a big city like Toronto.

Merlin's Falcon, photo taken by me

I grew up in Toronto, a city characterized by its hustle and bustle, I became acutely aware of the frantic pace of urban life. Surrounded by towering skyscrapers and busy streets, the natural landscapes accessible to me were limited, and moments of stillness were rare amidst the constant activity. However, as I dove deeper into the practice of interpretation and embraced the principles advocated by Beck et al. (2018), I began to recognize the importance of seeking out moments of tranquility amidst the urban chaos. Whether it was finding solace in a quiet corner of a park or escaping to nearby green spaces, I learned to appreciate the profound impact that moments of stillness and connection with nature could have on my well-being. These experiences have taught me the value of mindfulness and contemplation, not only in fostering a deeper understanding of the natural world but also in finding peace and serenity amidst the hustle and bustle of my city life.

As I navigate my journey as a nature interpreter, certain core beliefs underpin my ethical stance. At the heart of my approach lies a deep reverence for nature's intrinsic value. I see the natural world not merely as a collection of resources to be exploited but as a living, breathing ecosystem of which we are all apart. This reverence informs every aspect of my interactions, guiding me to approach nature with humility, gratitude, and a sense of stewardship.

Peggy's Cove, Nova Scotia, photo taken by me

Furthermore, I believe in the power of interpretation to inspire stewardship and foster connections between people and the natural world. While disseminating factual information remains essential, I recognize the importance of engaging audiences on an emotional level. Through the art of storytelling, multimedia presentations, and immersive experiences, I strive to evoke a sense of wonder, curiosity, and responsibility for the environment (Beck et al., 2018).

In conclusion, my journey as a nature interpreter is characterized by a commitment to ethical principles that will evolve and deepen over time. Inspired by the wisdom of scholars we have come across in our class, I will embark on this path with openness, integrity, and reverence. By embodying these values and approaches, I aim to inspire others to develop a deeper connection with nature and become passionate stewards of our planet's precious resources. In the words of Claude Monet, “The richness I achieve comes from nature, the source of my inspiration.” 

Thank you all for reading my posts this semester! I wish you all the best on your interpretation journeys :)

Ricks Cafe, Jamacia, photo taken by me

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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Thank you for sharing your final thoughts and reflections on your journey as a nature interpreter!

I can see that your passion for the natural world shines through in every word, and I appreciate your dedication to preserving and sharing its beauty with others.

One part of your final blog that really resonates with me is your emphasis on the hands-off approaches in nature interpretation. I feel that this is something that is often glossed over, everybody always want to touch everything out in nature. Your commitment to observing and respecting natural occurrences without interference aligns with ethical wildlife viewing principles. As interpreters, it is a crucial role of ours to prioritize the well-being of wild animals and minimize our impact on their habitats. With this we can insure future generations will have the same opportunities to experience nature.

With this, I also really appreciate your insights on the responsibilities of nature interpreters as storytellers for future generations. The way you stress the importance of creating an engaging and meaningful narrative that's inspires curiosity and stewardship among audiences, especially children, is spot on. As you mentioned, facts alone may not capture people's interest, but adding exciting stories can ignite a sense of wonder and instill a deeper connection to nature.

In terms of furthering the discussion, I'd like to suggest exploring the intersectionality of environmental issues and social justice in nature interpretation. Environmental challenges often disproportionately affect marginalized communities, and addressing these intersecting issues requires a holistic approach. By incorporating discussions on equity, diversity, and inclusion into nature interpretation practices, we can foster a more inclusive and equitable environmental movement.

Overall, your final blog post poetically describes beliefs and values as a nature interpreter, whilst highlighting your dedication to protecting and preserving the natural world. I've enjoyed reading your insights throughout your posts, and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors as you continue to inspire others to connect with and care for nature.

Final Blog: Beliefs of a Nature Interpreter

Hey everyone, welcome back! This will be my final blog post and I just wanted to take a quick second to thank everyone for reading my thoughts and ideas and I wanted to say it was a wonderful time! I really enjoyed seeing all your opinions about my thoughts and I hope to see them one last time in this post! Stay strong, protect the natural world around you, and keep exploring! As always I hope you enjoy my thoughts and pictures.

Nature is such an important part of everyone's life, and must be preserved at all costs. However, to some nature is more than just an escape. It’s a calling. I believe that every little thing in nature is worth saving, protecting, and maintaining its beauty. In the class content it said, “we can create nature-rich communities where kids feel a deep and abiding love for the living systems that we are all immersed in” (Hooykaas, 2024), and this quote really stuck with me because I believe that every person in this world should be given the ability to establish their own special bond with the natural world around them. I believe the preservation of nature should be of the utmost importance because if the natural world changes too much there may not be any of the same things that we hold dear left to explore, and without it so many people would be left confused and unsure where to wander. I believe it is also extremely important to teach others, especially the younger generations how very important it is to maintain the beauty of what can occur when humans do not manipulate the environment. I also believe it is important to not interfere with natural occurrences that you might stumble across no matter how disturbing, awkward, or sad it may be. For example, last summer I came across many different animals doing various things from water snakes mating to a garter snake eating to a family of beavers building a damn under a dock, of course I tried to take pictures if I could, but not a chance would I get too close or startle the animals due to the slightest chance of it messing with their routine.

This is a collage of a few things I’ve witnessed while out exploring nature. Top left is a shaggy mane mushroom, top right is a member of the beaver family that was creating a dam, bottom left is a garter snake attempting to eat an earthworm, and the bottom right is a very large wolf spider that was just hanging around.

Being an nature interpreter is a role that must help others explore aspects of nature that they wouldn’t have thought to look at. Nature interpreting is so much more than simply a job. As I said before it’s a calling, a passion, a craving for exploration, and bringing what is unknown into the light for other people to be in the know. Nature interpreters have some of the largest responsibilities for the future. They hold the responsibility of being storytellers for future generations. They won’t just say facts about nature because that is not what gets people, more importantly kids, interested in the natural world. Kids are interested in video games and have simulations of nature, however, it is the responsibility of nature interpreters to tell exciting and eccentric stories that get them wanting and willing to go out and experience it for themselves (Boeckel, 2015). It is also the responsibility of the interpreter to be well-prepared, insightful, and communicate efficiently and in an appropriate manner depending on the audience that they are attending to. It is also the responsibility of the interpreter to, while telling the stories, make sure that everyone who is listening knows how important even the smallest thing in an ecosystem is all the way down to the small twig/branch the kids may want to pick up and play with. 

This was a location that we visited called Overhanging point (name is kinda self explanatory) during a guided hike. This was carved out by glacial ice movement.

As an individual it may seem difficult at times to think that what you say has an impact on the overall scheme of things, but there are many things that one person can do that can change and pull so many more people in. As it says in the textbook, find a way to articulate your ideas and points in a relevant, creative, and caring manner because that is what draws the attention of others (Beck, Cable, and Knudson, 2018). There are many ways to engage groups of people, and some effective ways are: holding interactive presentations for specific topics, creating a podcast that can appeal to younger and older audiences with many games such as guess the bird call, or guess that animal by the description, guided hikes are also a good tool to pique the interest of the more outdoorsy type of person, and sometimes even simple blogs like this one is an effective tool for getting ideas across to a very significant amount of different people. I know from personal experience that the two most effective ways to reach me with different information is an interactive presentation, or a guided hike. These two speak to me the most because I find them the most useful for engaging people. Guided hikes are a very nice way of exploring the wilderness because not only do you get to be out in nature, but you are able to hear the backstories of all the caves, rock formations, or anything that you may come across during the hike. However, each person has a different way of engaging with nature.

That’s all I have on my mind for now, and I hope everyone enjoyed my thoughts this time, and I hope you have all enjoyed my previous posts too! I had a wonderful time sharing my opinions and thoughts over the past months. I am looking forward to everyone's replies and ideas of their own. 

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

Boeckel, J.v. (2015). At the heart of art and earth: an exploration of practices in arts-based environmental education. Envir. Edu. Research. 21 (5), 801-802. https://doi-org.subzero.lib.uoguelph.ca/10.1080/13504622.2014.959474

Hooykaas, A. (2024). Unit 10: Nature Interpretation’s Role in Environmental Sustainability. University of Guelph. https://courselink.uoguelph.ca/d2l/le/content/858004/viewContent/3640024/View.

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Interconnected Ethics: Bridging Nature Interpretation and Environmental Advocacy

Hi everyone, welcome back! Sadly, this is the last blog post :( Looking back on everything that has been presented in this course, I’ve have been able to create a deeper understanding of my ethics as a nature interpreter and with nature in general. From this course I come to understand that my ethics towards nature are deeply rooted in the principles of respect, stewardship, and admiration. I believe that everything in nature, from towering trees to microorganisms in the soil have intrinsic value and deserve to be treated with respect and care.

This week we were tasked with watching the discussion between David Suzuki and Richard Louv at the AGO in 2012. I felt that their conversional insights reflected some of these ethics, mainly respect and stewardship. Mainly through their discussion of governments using economic incentives in climate initiatives, such as the carbon tax. They both agreed that these actions of ‘green initiatives’ are a backwards way of thinking and still place economic gain/loss over the value of our environment. This ultimately reflects the lack of respect governments have for the environment and reinforces the idea that money is more valuable than the environment.

One of the main beliefs that I brought with me and explored more in this course was that of the interconnectedness of nature, including us. I see myself as a part of the web of life and through nature interpretation I have tried my best to express this view to others. In the future, whether I am guiding a group on a nature walk or writing another blog post I will continue to aim to highlight how everything in nature is connected and most importantly how we are connected to nature as well.  However, from the discussion between Suzuki and Louv they highlight the dilemma that trivial economic incentives, such as the carbon tax, are not sufficient to truly address the root causes of environmental degradation. Instead, they can end up preserving the notion that economic gains are more valuable than the health of the environment.

In addition to my belief of interconnectedness also comes a sense of responsibility. As someone who is educated on environmental matters, I have a duty to educate and inspire others to also develop a deeper connection with nature in order to promote conservation. Extending beyond the scope of mere information relaying, I need to be able to incorporate a sense of wonder and awe for the natural world. This will help to create an environment to empower individuals to make mindful decisions for society and the planet as a whole. This can be taught through various methods that we have been presented in this course, such as tactile, visual, and auditory. However, it also requires us to acknowledge the limitations of only relying on economic incentive to fix the climate crisis, and with this, to push for systemic changes that prioritize environmental health. In addition, as a nature interpreter I also have the responsibility to my audience to look out for their best interests and mitigate risk whenever and wherever possible. It is my job to make sure that everyone has the same opportunities to enjoy nature to the fullest while maintaining a safe environment for people to create lasting connections.

With respect to my approach, I find that a combination of scientific knowledge and storytelling will resonate the most with individuals. I feel that science would provide the framework for understanding the complexities of nature while storytelling adds emotional depth to the experience. By incorporating both of these aspects, I would be able to include facts, anecdotes, and experiences with the goal of creating an interpretation that is informative and engaging. Hopefully this would not only invite people to learn more about nature, but also to create a personal connection with it. With this I will keep in mind the holistic approach that prioritizes the environment over economic-centric solutions as mentioned by Louv and Suzuki.

Overall, my personal ethics as a nature interpreter are grounded in respect, responsibility, and the appreciation for the interconnectedness between all living things. By employing these values and beliefs in my practice as a nature interpreter and embracing a healthy blend between science and storytelling, along with various learning methods, I hope to inspire other to join me in nurturing a more harmonious relationship with the natural world. While also advocating for systemic changes that addresses how we approach the climate crisis through conservation and sustainable incentives and/or policies.

Thank you all for taking part in my blogs over the past few months, I hope you were able to learn something that you will take forwards with you. Remember to take a second to appreciate what is around you whether it is an oak tree in a city park or a winding river through mountains. There is purpose and meaning in everything, and it deserves our respect and gratitude.

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A Journey of Discovery

Welcome back everyone! I’m sorry for my absence recently. But let’s continue to explore the complexities and the awe-inspiring being of nature! Today, we set out on an adventure to unveil the amazing marvels of nature. While most people, including myself, are often drawn towards vast oceans or towering mountains, there are countless other aspects of nature that are just as amazing, at least to me :) Imagine that you are standing in the middle of a lush forest with towering trees creating a dense canopy to shield you from the sun. You find yourself standing there looking around and taking in the sounds of the forest around you from chirping birds to the mosquito that just wont leave you alone. As you stand there, taking in the peace and tranquility in front of you, you notice a plant on the forest floor that has bright purple rounded flower growing from it. But what the eyes does not see is that this ordinary plant has a magical secret hiding in its cells.

What you see before you is Mimosa pudica, and before you wonder, no its not what’s in a mimosa, probably for the best too. This plant is also known as the touch-me-not plant. This seemingly ordinary plant does not like being touched and responds in a way that makes use question the rationale of nature evolution. Imagine that you reach to grab the plant to get a better view at the flower but a few seconds after you make contact with the plant the foliage begins to move, and no its not the wind. What was once a well-structured plant is now drooping to the ground and it leaves have been tucked inward (Britannica, 2024). Its almost as if the plant is saying ‘no… please don’t do that’ through its body language.

Photo of it normally (Cori Sears, 2023)

The mobile power of this plant comes from the complex anatomy of a system of cells, tissues, and fibers which allow this plant to detect physical stimulation (Hagihara & Toyota, 2020). As soon as you make contact with the plant, the nervous system sends signals to motor cells which trigger a rapid chain reaction which changes in water levels and causes the leaves to fold inwards (Hagihara & Toyota, 2020). This evolutionary trait has evolved as a means to deter herbivores from feeding on its foliage, almost to say that there is not as much food here as you thought, look elsewhere.

Photo of it after contact (Bart Verbeck, 2016)

                This amazing plant always reminds me of the intricate beauty and nature infinite extent of ingenuity. In a world where nature comes in all sizes, I find its usually the smaller things that leave me asking questions. Remember this the next time you find yourself out in nature and take a moment to appreciate hidden mysteries. And continue to move forwards in your exploration of natures intricacies to discover its hidden powers.

I’m curious to hear what in nature you think is amazing and that more people should know! Thanks for joining me this week and I’ll see you again soon!

References

Encyclopaedia Britannica, inc. (2024, March 1). Sensitive plant. Encyclopaedia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/plant/sensitive-plant

Hagihara, T., & Toyota, M. (2020, May 4). Mechanical signaling in the sensitive plant mimosa Pudica L. MDPI. https://www.mdpi.com/2223-7747/9/5/587

Sears, C. (2023, June 29). Sensitive Plant: Care & Growing Guide. The Spruce. https://www.thespruce.com/mimosa-pudica-plant-profile-5072410

Verberck, B. (2016, August 2). Drop and fold. Nature News. https://www.nature.com/articles/nphys3855

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Hello Issac,

I very much enjoyed reading through your thoughts and ideas while unpacking the quote from this week’s content. As I was reading, I noticed that your analysis of Hyams’ quote differs from mine slightly, but I think it actually offers more insight into the relevance of historical integrity when placing value on historical paraphernalia rather than age itself. I think this is important, as it encourages us to move past superficial tokens of appreciation to focus more on the impact and relevance of historical ideas and artifacts.

I also really liked the connection you made to the quote by George Santayana. I think that it puts Hyams’ quote into blunt terms for everyone to understand. This adds also more depth to your discussion by highlighting what the consequences that can come from us ignoring Hyams and history as a whole. Including this really underscores that urgency that should be placed on preserving historical heritage while also learning from these past experiences.

All the best,

Greg

Week 6

Hello Everybody,

This week we were all tasked with unpacking a quote by Edward Hyams in chapter seven, Gifted of interpretation, the quotes reads, “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.” Unpacking this quote initially seems like a daunting task. There is a lot of information and insight in only a few sentences. The first statement immediately sets the tone for the whole quote, when Edward says “There is no peculiar merit in ancient things, but there is merit in integrity”  I interpret it as just because objects are old does not make them special or noteworthy but it is the fact that the object has been able to stand the test of time yet still keep its integrity should be appreciated and celebrated. “and integrity entails the keeping together of the parts of any whole”, this part of the quote puzzled me initially but I believe that Edward is trying to say that the point or purposes of objects in our past can be lost or misunderstood if the physical integrity of the object is not maintained. “if these parts are scattered throughout time, then the maintenance of integrity entails a knowledge, a memory, of ancient things” I believe this part means that if the integrity of an object or idea is maintained it represents that the people maintaining it have a higher understanding of the importance of remembering ancient things as they were. “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 part of the quote perhaps was the most impactful to me, my understanding of what Edward is trying to say is that time does not only exist in the present and to think that it does is simply incorrect. This relates to the idea of legacy a person can leave behind, although the things that this person has done occurred in a single moment in time its memory and importance can be carried on for decades or hundreds of years. This quote reminds me heavily of another very popular quote you have probably heard, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it”- George Santayana. If humanity is not concerned with protecting the integrity of historical objects, historical events, or historical people then the world will forget the lessons learned by thousands of years of experiences. Overall, this quote is very insightful and provoked me to think about how I interpret historical artifacts and events.

How did this quote change the way you think?

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Unpacking History

The quote presented to us offers a very thought-provoking lesson which delves into the integrity and the nexus point of the past and the present, that being the landscape. Hyams suggests that the value and merit of ancient things should not be solely based off age but rather preserved integrity. He stresses that this can only be done if the ‘whole’ is also preserved through time. This allows us to see all perspectives of events and how the land was used by all who interacted with it.

With this new analysis of deciding historical value being presented to us, it is important that we understand what integrity is and where it comes from. Integrity, in the context from Hyams’ quote, implies a sense of coherence and continuity. However, in everyday life, integrity can be accepting responsibility and/or consequences or being honest and truthful not because you must but because it is the right thing to do. In a way this transpires into Hyams’ perception of integrity through maintaining the cohesion of the ‘whole’. Diving deeper, Hyams suggest that in order to maintain integrity, we must first posses a deep understanding of ancient things but also how they relate to and shape the much broader narrative.

            The use of the metaphor at the end of the quote describes a parallel of the past and a train station saying that to disregard the history of the station before and after we’re there, is akin to the belief that the station only exists for the time that we are there. What I got from this was that if we neglect the past, we simultaneously overlook the influence and significance of the ‘train station’ and the role it played in shaping the world around us. From this we can see that Hyams is highlighting the importance of historical consciousness and continuity and that by recognizing the contributions of the past and a ‘whole’ we can enrich our understanding of the world around us today. And from this, we can create more cohesive and informed future. I personally like the way that Hyams has presented this as it stresses that the past should not be stagnant relic that is held over people to place blame but rather a force that shapes our collective identity whist paving the path forwards.

All in all, Hymas’ quote acts as a potent reminder of the relevance of the past and the intrinsic value that we should attach to something that is deemed as historically important. He is actively calling us to create a deep appreciation of historical paraphernalia on the basis of integrity rather than age to help us strengthen our collective heritage. However, I do believe that as nature interpreters we must also recognize our limitations when it comes to interpreting history. We are not trained in understanding and analyzing historical events and social constructs of a time that we did not live in. Mainly because while we may be able to see the outcome, we lack the vision to see the complex social dynamics that led to certain events or land usage, as this is mostly a result of multiple parallel or intersecting determinants. With this in mind, as nature interpreters we should not shy away from seeking others expertise in areas where we are lacking. This will help us create a more accurate and informative session for our audience.

That’s all for this week – until next time :)

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pc.koublis

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Blog 5: Free Write

Hi everyone! Since this week we can decide our own topic to discuss, I’ll be talking about my main takeaways from the course so far. Throughout our ongoing exploration of our nature interpretation, we have discussed many different topics. These ranged from the crossroads of art and privilege in nature, the role of interpreters in environmental advocacy, and the different methods we can engage with out audiences.

During the first few weeks of the course, we were taught to fully immerse our audience into the beauty and complexities of the natural world. To do this we must move past traditional models of interpretation and explore new pathways. I believe that sensory engagement is very important to include in interpretation methods. This is because, through sight and sound, along with touch, smell, and taste, we are able to forage more memorable experiences on a deeper level. Based on my ideal role as a nature interpreter being one where I take groups out into national parks, I think this approach would be very beneficial. Specially because If I can provide the opportunities for people to experience nature through different perspectives (senses), I think it would make it easier for the audience to foster a more profound connection and appreciation towards the natural world.

Later in the course, we were presented with the idea of the intersection of privilege in nature. This is a crucial component of interpretation to keep in mind to create an inclusive and equitable environment. Limiting factors such as race, gender, and socioeconomic status can significantly impacts the access and perceptions that people have to the natural world. Though addressing these disparities, we and ensure that we dismantle barriers and ensure that everyone has the same opportunities to enjoy nature together. With this, we can enrich and amplify the diversity of voices and perspectives in the field.

After everything we have been presented with, I can see just how important the role of nature interpretation plays when trying to educate and inspire people with regards to nature. Also, in advocating for environmental conservation. By using the platforms that we have access to, we can actively promote environmental stewardship and promote meaningful change. This would include promoting the voices of marginalized communities, interacting in constructive dialogues, and encouraging policy reforms. Through the driving collective action for a sustainable and equitable society, interpreters can help shape the public perception to create positive changes in nature and in a broader scale.

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Patagonia <3

Torres del Paine National Park, Patagonia, Chile.

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Blog 4: Nature Interpretation with Art

The journey of nature interpretation involves diving into various fields of expression and communication, each offering a different point of view on our relationship with the nature. One of these fields is that of Art. Art, in many realms outside of nature interpretation, acts as a powerful medium that we can communicate though and share a common appreciation of nature. Although we undoubtedly have different takes, some people like those who surround themselves with it constantly will find something different than those who do not. This week we covered the Group of Seven and recognized them as being a profound symbol to Canadian identity. There is something about the brushwork, paints, or something else I’m completely missing, – I’m the furthest thing from an artist – that instill emotions into the viewer. The group and their artwork evokes the feeling of being in the landscape while looking at it through a computer screen or on a wall.

Whether art is presented in the form of paintings, photographs, museums, or anything else, art will inevitably preserve a moment in time. This moment impacts others as it is shared. Shared art allows the story and emotions to be passed on continuously through time. Even if the landscape changes, for good or for worse, the fleeting moment now captured in time can be appreciated long past its being. Using art in nature interpretation allows a mixture of intellectual and emotional experiences which together, create a more meaningful overall experiences for the audience.

“The Gift of Beauty”, that being nature, is interpreted in a different by way virtually everyone on the planet. While we all stick to the general translations that nature is “tranquil”, “euphoric”, “breathtaking”, etc. We do stray from the general path when is comes to the small details in nature that catch our eyes and make us stop to think, and ultimately make us appreciate nature. This could be how a rock breaks the fierce current of a river for some people and for others it may be the sound of the wind ripping through a valley or the suns rays shining through the canopy of a forest. Whatever it is that draws you in, you find yourself asking similar questions or feeling the same emotions as others. I believe that this acts as a nexus point with Freeman Tilden’s assertion that ‘interpretation should present a whole rather than a part’. Where not all individuals can visual the ‘whole’ and are overwhelmed by specific details. From this, and with everyone being drawn to different aspects of nature, through nature interpretation and sharing our art and/or knowledge, we effectively become the ‘whole’, collectively and together.  

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Hello! Thank your for sharing your insightful ideas in the complex relationship between nature interpretation and privilege. I like how you examined privilege from a multifaceted approach for the role that it plays in nature interpretation. Examining both sides of the equation is important in general, but with this it shows us that there can be multiple outcomes. One being a deepened understanding and appreciation of nature that can lead to activists and environmentalists. The other being a sense of entitlement towards the opportunities that allow access to nature (vacations, road trips, etc.) developing into a greed. Again, well done incorporating multiple perspectives into the conversation.

 I think you touched on a very underappreciated point with the idea that having a role model during our upbringing shapes our perspective on nature. As these are the people who shape our morals and values from the very start. If someone close values and respects nature, being around them while in nature is surely to rub off through repeated experiences. I liked how you referenced this through direct firsthand experiences with a supportive family encouraging experiences in nature, but also recognized that this itself is also a privilege many people do not have. I also noticed that the point you made calling for nature interpretation to be an inclusive place for everyone aligns with broader efforts aiming to promote diversity and equality in the realm of access to nature. 

Exploring the Role of Privilege in Nature Interpretation

Nature interpretation is a powerful tool for connecting people with the natural world and inspiring conservation efforts. However, how different individuals and groups interpret nature can vary widely depending on their backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. One factor that can have a significant impact on nature interpretation is privilege.

Privilege is the advantages, benefits, and opportunities available to certain individuals or groups due to their social, cultural, economic, or political status. For example, someone who has grown up in a wealthy family and has had access to private education and travel opportunities may have a different perspective on nature than someone who has grown up in poverty and has had limited exposure to natural environments.

The role that privilege plays in nature interpretation is complex and multifaceted. On one hand, privilege can provide individuals access to resources and experiences that can deepen their understanding and appreciation of nature. For example, someone who has travelled extensively and studied environmental science may have a more nuanced understanding of ecosystems and the impacts of human activity on the natural world. However, privilege can also have the opposite effect. Those with more significant resources or wealth can develop characteristics of greed, which can cloud the importance of natural things and focus on the artificial society that we live in. For example, the wealthiest in the Global North generate the most carbon worldwide (Norgaard, 2012). However, these individuals' concern rate is also the lowest, as they do not view climate change as a 'high priority concept' (Norgaard, 2012). In this point of view, the unprivileged may experience greater closeness to nature from living in the perspective of "less is more." It is a complex thought.

Privilege can also create barriers to natural interpretation for those who cannot access the same resources and experiences. For example, people from low-income backgrounds may need more financial resources to travel to national parks or participate in outdoor education programs, which could limit their exposure to and understanding of nature. This can cause them to view money and "things" as necessities in life to be happy. At the same time, those who study nature or become connected via experiences open to them due to privilege might connect more due to those opportunities.

In addition, privilege can impact how individuals interpret and engage with nature. Someone from a culture that values hunting and fishing may have a different perspective on conservation efforts than someone from a culture that values animal rights and biodiversity. These differing perspectives can impact how individuals interpret and engage with nature, sometimes leading to conflicting opinions about conservation efforts.

So, what can be done to address the role of privilege in nature interpretation? One crucial step is recognizing and acknowledging how privilege can impact our understanding and engagement with nature. By being aware of our privilege and the privilege of others, we can work to create more inclusive and equitable spaces for nature interpretation. However, the connection between environmental interpretation and privilege is not straightforward. Those privileged may not have been taught the right values to appreciate something as "simple" as nature. Those privileged or unprivileged may have needed a proper role model who cared enough to teach them or valued nature themselves. Privilege is a complex subject, and it greatly depends on multiple factors beyond just wealth, poverty, and social class. A child's upbringing greatly depends on who they will become, dependent or not on social class.

These are my opinions and my opinions alone. While I cannot begin to understand the complex nature of ethnic standards, being a Caucasian female, I believe that all individuals, regardless of identity and race, should have the resources to experience or study whatever they wish in life. However, that is not the world we live in. Therefore, I believe the connection of privilege and nature interpretation is very well connected to privilege, but not just in the "common definition" most would think (i.e. money). Privilege has eye-opening opportunities that others may not be fortunate enough to experience, whether that be experiences, opportunities, support, family, religion/belief systems, etc. Privilege can go far beyond wealth; supporting family/friends could be just as privileged as money. Privilege can also depend on each individual's viewpoint and definition of what it means to be favoured.

To "unload my invisible backpack," a concept taught in class regarding realizing one's opportunities and privileges that others may not have been able to have. I am of white heritage, in a whole family that is not of low social class. I had the opportunity to experience vacations growing up, join whatever sports I wanted, every field trip or summer camp, and attend University to complete my bachelor's without going into debt. I am a very fortunate individual, which many in Ontario could relate to but others couldn't. I cannot begin to express my gratitude enough to my parents for raising me with these opportunities and presenting me with proper values and experiences that allowed me to connect with nature and its beauty. Without the moral values taught to me, these privileges could have led to a different outcome.

References: 

Baró, F., Camacho, D. A., Del Pulgar, C. P., Triguero-Mas, M., & Anguelovski, I. (2021). School greening: Right or privilege? Examining urban nature within and around primary schools through an equity lens. Landscape and urban planning, 208, 104019.

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

Norgaard, K. M. (2012). Climate denial and the construction of innocence: Reproducing transnational environmental privilege in the face of climate change. Race, Gender & Class, 80-103.

#well done

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Privilege in Nature

Hi everyone, welcomed back! This will be my third blog post where we dive into the concept of privilege and how it is connected to nature and nature interpretation. Sit back and enjoy the read. And maybe think about your own privilege and what it is connected to while reading.

Before we can connect privilege to nature, we must first be able to define it. Privilege is a term associated with a group of people and/or an individual who are presented with common goods, benefits, and/or opportunities that they did not come across themselves, as a result of someone else’s efforts and actions. More often than not, the privilege a group and/or an individual has is often out of sight to them, or worse, ignored. For example, people of western societies have the privilege of having access to clean drinking water and workers rights because of the generations before us putting such systems in place. A large proportion of the rest of the world does not have these privileges. Privilege can be based off many different things from country of birth to career options and much more.  

Now with nature in mind, privilege can be simply having access to explore nature. For example, people who grew up outside of an urban setting in rural communities, such as myself, having access to nature virtually at any given time is a privilege those in urban developments do not have. Specifically, while growing up and having regular access to nature is a privilege many people do not have. This illustrates how just a simple factor of what type of community you grew up in can give one the privilege of connecting and experiencing nature from a young age. Which can have profound effects on the individual’s well-being throughout their life. For example, one with frequent access to nature can clear their mind by going for a walk through a forest to listen to the bird’s chirp and the leaves blowing in the wind. People in cities such as Toronto cannot do this as easily and it is also more costly to do.

Privilege in nature can also be having someone in your life who exposes you to nature from a young age. Having someone in your life that has an interest in nature is something that not everyone has access to. This can be profoundly influential on when and how one develops a relationship with nature. Having someone to take you out and explore nature while young is a privilege by itself, but also having that person who teaches you respect and gratitude for nature is a whole other level. From this, one can begin to develop a respectful and sustainable relationship from a young age that will flourish later in life.

Thank you again for reading my thoughts and ideas, I hope you were able to take something away from it. Until next time.

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Hello, to start off, that’s so cool you share your birthday with David Attenborough!! I also think you mentioned something that goes too underappreciated in the next generation, that being introducing kids to nature while there young. I think this can provide them with the foundation to foster a passionate relationship later down the road. Alongside upholding their well-being. And after all they will be the ones to ensure we do not stray from a sustainable relationship with the world around us (assuming we make it through the environmental crisis in our generation).

It also awesome to see that your already got a jump on being a nature interpreter last summer at the Toronto Zoo. I could imagine that it would be exciting to have an already intrigued audience that I could share fun facts with. It would also be beneficial to have an audience in front of you that can be taught in verbal and visual manors.

I can also relate to what you said about “physically being in nature can truly elevate ones understanding of concepts”. This has had big impact on how I formed my relationship with nature along with what it has evolved into through physically experiencing nature repeatedly. With this, I too could see myself as a guide for tours through National Parks where people can have visual, tactile, and even audio aid when being presented with ecological concepts. I think your example of seeing a hummingbird pollinating compared to reading about it in a textbook hit the nail on the head with respect to our goal as a nature interpreter. To make a lasting impression of knowledge guests will not forget.

Good work, it was nice to read about your experiences and ideas!

Nature and Me

When I think of environmental interpretation my mind goes to straight to icons like David Attenborough (whom I share a birthday with) and the Kratt brothers. I remember learning so much about the world I lived in after school from these two quirky brothers and their ring-tailed lemur. These people have shaped my passion for nature, and I value their youth-centred approaches to environmental interpretation. Since my passion for the environment began at a very young age and has been instrumental to my wellbeing for a long time, I would really like to assure that the next generation of youth has similar experiences to the ones that have been so formative for me. This summer, I worked for the Toronto Zoo, doing programming for children and their families. This job was so meaningful to me as I shared my passions with those who were interested, and it gave me a sense of purpose for my future as I absolutely loved working with kids who were equally excited as me as I taught them about all the wonders of conservation at the zoo. This involved a lot of patience and adaptability, as the children had plenty of energy and excitement, but I received feedback that I was an excellent role model for the groups that came in.

Moving forward in my career I would love to share my passion and knowledge on everything environmental through tactile and auditory strategies. This could be by leading groups on tours through one of Canadas numerous National Parks talking about the importance of pollinators or predators to a wide variety of people. Physically being in nature can truly elevate one’s understanding when trying to grasp the concepts being described by nature interpreters. For example, witnessing a hummingbird pollinate a wildflower can provide learners with real-time science lesson that is sure to be remembered rather than a lesson given only via textbook. I don’t remember individual episodes of the National Geographic programming that I watched on TV, but the time I spent watching two deer stroll through an Algonquin marsh on a guided tour will forever be etched in my memory. Tactile learning will be a priority of mine to provide as a nature interpreter.

As we immerse ourselves in the beauty of the natural world, we not only gain a deeper understanding of our surroundings but also develop a profound connection with the environment. Just as the great David Attenborough or the Kratt brothers helped guide my journey with nature, I hope that my interpretations can similarly inspire and positively impact others. Through shared experiences and thoughtful reflections, we have the power to cultivate a collective appreciation for the wonders of the natural world, contributing to a brighter future for both humanity and the planet we all call home.

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Hello, I really enjoyed reading your post! I found it very interesting to read about how your mother exposed you to a more cultural and historical side of things. Knowing and understanding the cultural heritage and historical uses of the land is very important in today’s conservation efforts during the environmental crisis and the complex issues that stem from it. It can also come in very handy as a nature interpreter to engage the audience and highlight connections between humanity and nature. Also, the photos from Panama are really cool! I especially like the detailed paintings and architecture of what looks to be a place of worship.

I can relate with also being exposed to and curious about nature from a young age. I think it is really important to build some sort of foundation while young with the aim of respectful relationship when older. Also, with how you mentioned that your curiosity of nature and how things work encouraged your chosen path of education. Personally, observing nature has always captured my curiosity, prompting questions like ‘What causes this?’ or ‘How does this function?'. Pursuing education in the sciences became a way to find the answers to these interesting questions.

Thank you for sharing your thoughts, stories, and pictures. The one of the lizard just chilling on the wall is pretty cool too!

Nature and Her Lovely Distractions

Ever since I was young, nature has been a large distraction for me. I remember being in the middle of a soccer game at 8 years old and stopping to lay on the field and pick dandelions instead. To this day, in each of my classes I force myself to sit far from the windows because I get distracted by the birds and the plants I see, trying to name all the species I know. Through these distractions my curiosity has grown, leading me to my major in Biological sciences with special interest in plant science. I am forever grateful for each-and-every-one of these happy diversions, as they have made me who I am today.

Due to my natural interest in my surrounding flora and fauna, I would have to say I developed my own "sense of place" in nature. As described in the textbook, an interpreter helps others apply knowledge and significance to a particular location or area of nature (Beck et al. 2018). I have always enjoyed questioning the "why does that grow that way?" or "How could nature produce that?" and searching for an answer to these questions, in this way I have been my own interpreter for some time.

However, I cannot take all the credit! My mother has always given me the blessing of travel, and as a kid I hated visiting every castle and church in new places, not seeing the significance of it. Now reflecting, my mom was providing me with her interpretations and knowledge of so many monuments and sharing her admiration for historical buildings. Now that I have grown, I try to visit every cool church/castle/monument I see on vacation to appreciate the history and detail of these architectural masterpieces. Most recently, my family visited Panama and saw some beautiful places.

Although I truly appreciate my mom's interests in historically significant destinations, my true interest will always lay in the natural aspects of the world. I love to look at different plant species and the details in their leaves, then try to guess what biological function their development has served them! I always do research after to prove myself right, I use nature as a never-ending puzzle of sorts. While some find nature painfully boring, I think it's the most interesting part of our world. I love to educate my friends and tell them cool facts I know when certain topics come up (I guess this class was made for me). My place in nature has always been as a wide-eyed observer, just happy to see the process unfold.

Thank you for reading! Enjoy some photos of cool little guys I found exploring Panama :)

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

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Blog 2: Embracing Natures Classroom

As a student starting my first Nature Interpretation course, I can see that’s its very different from the core science aspect of my degree. It goes beyond identifying species and describing ecological process to a place that is more artistic. With translating the complex language of nature into a resonating story-like dialogue for the average person to follow and deepen their connection to the natural world.

Thinking about the ideal role for me as an environmental interpreter, I would say it involves a national park lined with river, mountains, valleys, and forests. Something that is not just a highway exit for any average tourist. Somewhere I can showcase nature while exploring the environment with eager learners. I think I would enjoy being a guide, accompanied by locals, for a group where we go out camping for 2-3 nights in the national park. This would be accompanied by guided hikes across the landscape as we make stops and talk about the history of the land, species, and geographic/environmental processes that created and uphold the ecosystem. I’m picturing the place somewhere in the Rocky Mountains of North America.  

In order to excel and be competent in this role as a guide the most crucial skill is effectively communicating the complexities of ecological processes into a captivating narrative people can follow and learn from. A foundation in environmental, ecological, and biological sciences would also be needed to translate the information into an engaging narrative. I also believe that honing my attention to detail along with observational skills are crucial to ensure people get the most from the experience. As a guide I should also be able to express the narrative in a way that caters to visual, audio, and when permissible, tactile learners.  

Moving forwards, I am excited to incorporate the interpretive skills we will continue to learn with the knowledge base that I currently have to create an informative and engaging lesson. The podcast assignments offer us a unique opportunity to develop teamwork skills that would be required in settings of a real-world interpreter. I also think that further ventures into nature, either for fieldwork or personal leisure, will be opportunities to practice observational skills and strengthen my relationship. This can allow me to create a more natural and effective story-like narrative that can leave a lasting impression.

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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 information mentioned in this blog.

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Blog 1: My Relationship With Nature

Hello! My name is Greg, I am a fifth year Environmental Science and Resource Management student. This is my first post of many on this blog that I will be using to share my experiences and perspectives of nature.

I would compare my relationship with nature to an ongoing dialogue which shapes my perspective and influences by well-being. Within this dialogue is respect, gratitude, education, peace, and adventure. I say ‘ongoing’ because throughout my life so far, my relationship with nature has evolved to new levels many times. For the majority of my life, I have always been surrounded by nature between growing up in the country in a farming community and spending time up north at my family cottage. From a young age I always enjoyed being outside. Whether I was climbing the pine trees in my backyard or exploring the forests, lakes, and rivers near me, and I always hated when I had to come back inside.

My relationship with nature first started as a sense of adventure but over the years my relationship began to evolve into one of respect and gratitude. At first this was from having more experiences repeatedly either alone or with friends/family. I remember one of the first experiences I had that started to evolve my relationship was a two-week canoe/camping experience in the Northwest Territories. From canoeing turquoise blue rivers, fishing, climbing mountains, and seeing nature in the truest sense of the word, I felt my first sense appreciation and respect towards it. After this is knew I wanted to become educated on the environment so that I could protect the natural heritage of it. This is where my relationship evolved again.

A photo I took last summer in southern Alberta while I was backcountry camping

Progressing through my degree has taught me a lot about the complex systems that uphold the foundations of the environment. As I leaned more and experienced more, I believe that my respect and love for nature grew as well and allowed me to see natural beauty in small things. I noticed this when standing on top of a mountain looking over the endless forest of green coniferous trees that crept up the mountains and listening to the wind rip through the valley. I found myself thinking of the time it took for environmental processes to create the awe-inspiring view I was looking at.

My sense of nature come from both my family and friends. My parents were the first ones to expose me to nature as a young kid. From growing up on a farm in a farming community to encouraging me to play sports where I was outside, camping, fishing, hiking, canoeing, and letting me explore, I was able to create the foundation of my relationship. My friends where the ones who allowed me to continue to evolve my relationship as they showed the same interest as me. As I grew up and my family could no longer do some of the activities mentioned earlier, I continued to do them with friends and take my experiences more to the extreme with entering backcountry camping in the Rocky Mountains time and time again. Additionally, as a kid and to this day I am always watching content related to nature such as BBC’s Planet Earth, River Monsters, survival shows, and YouTube videos on environmental processes.

I am excited to continue to share my experiences and hear about others throughout the course!