saenvs3000semester

[saenvs3000semester]

Hi Noah!

I think it's great how you explain that someone does not have to be artistic to see the beauty in nature. I always believed that acknowledging it’s beauty is to appreciate how the view looks, or how nice the surrounding sounds are. However, reading your post made me realize that simply feeling our emotions while observing nature is another way to interpret it through art. Cherishing the moment is beautiful in and of itself, as you are creating a memory in that moment of time that you will remember and value. 

Although there are people that enjoy interpreting their view with a facts-based approach, it definitely does not mean everyone needs to do so, in order to appreciate nature. Whether you are artistic or not, sometimes just grounding yourself in the moment allows for the best connection with nature. 

Personally, I like to do both. I enjoy taking the view in, but sometimes I can’t help but notice a few details that point out to me, which I end up focusing on. You may have even done this simply by admiring the shape of a cloud. I believe that this is also a form of nature interpretation, as noticing the unique shapes of a cloud or leaf is a beautiful thing too.

I’ll definitely pay attention to how nature makes me feel next time I am approaching it from an artistic perspective!

Unit 4: Interpretation Through Art

I used to think that it was impossible for someone with my artistic talent, non-existent, to be able to represent and create something as beautiful as the nature around us. Why should it not be the case for those with years of training and practice to showcase their talents of creative expression through visual masterpieces that show nature in all its glory? As the weeks in this course have gone on, and particularly with this most recent week, I have begun to realize that everyone is able to interpret nature through art, and it could even be argued that we have a responsibility to interpret nature in our own way. After reading the textbook chapter, I have begun to realize that interpreting nature through art is less so about the objective beauty of the piece, but about how the individual is able to connect to it.

I have learned that artistic interpretation can be a way to express our emotions and capture the meanings of our surroundings through our own eyes. It lets us capture moments, and highlight our unique perspective of the world around us. I am someone who can experience, process, and appreciate my surroundings. Thus, I can be someone that interprets nature through art. I believe that anyone and everyone can, and should, follow this principle. We all have the duty to truly cherish art, and display our appreciation through whatever medium we want to use.

According to the textbook, the gift of beauty is that interpretation should allow people to feel the ability, desire, and sense of beauty in their surroundings (Beck, Cable & Knudson, 2019). The gift of beauty would provide spiritual uplift and encourage the preservation of resources. As well, Enos Mills has been described to believe that nature guides should be more inspirational, rather than informational (Beck, Cable & Knudson, 2019). This has also led to his proposed formula for becoming a strong nature guide. According to Mills, one must appeal to the imagination, personalize your facts, use stories to give life to inanimate objects, use principles, and give biographies (Beck, Cable & Knudson, 2019). 

When I read these ideas, it helped me understand not only how I can interpret the gift of beauty, but how to ensure that others understand the gift of beauty as well. The gift of beauty lies in truly appreciating the nature around you. Instead of just looking at nature and identifying facts, it would be more beneficial to just enjoy and bask in your surroundings. When interpreting for others, it could be beneficial to use a more holistic and fun-based approach to explaining your surroundings as opposed to just using facts and making it seem like a lecture. This holistic approach should make those we interpret for feel at home and warm in their surroundings, to ensure that they are truly appreciating the nature for the beauty that it holds.

References:

Beck, L., Cable, T., & Knudson, D. (2019). Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage For A Better World (1st ed.) [Textbook]. Sagamore-Venture Publishing.

[saenvs3000semester]

Who are you to interpret nature through art? How do you interpret “the gift of beauty”? - Blog Post 4

Answering the question, who am I to interpret nature, is a difficult one. As humans, we are constantly changing and evolving throughout our lives. To answer this question now, as a 20 year old living in Ontario, Canada, I am only able to reflect on my life story and experiences up until this point. In a year, or even a day, I may feel like a different person, interpreting nature in a completely different way. I have gained more experience by living another day or year, thus I have gained more insight, wisdom, or just simple observations. As chapter 5 describes the concept of interpretation, the way one views nature is influenced and shaped by their past experiences, knowledge, and background. Currently, I believe I am someone who is able to observe nature as a painter. Although I am not a consistent painter, nor do I think I am skilled, my artistic past has taught me many ways to view a scenery with a different lens. I have learned to identify the specific areas of where the shadows fall, the background, midground, and foreground, the way two colours may blend in with each other. I always find myself thinking, “How would I draw or paint this if I were to sit and create a piece right now?” 

With that being said, I am also a simple observer. When I would like to, I am able to appreciate the beauty of nature around me, without over complicating what I see. I believe no one simply thinks in one way, 100% of the time. We grow throughout our lives with experiences from all types of different aspects; photography, sports, drawing, running, etc. While I may view nature from an artist’s perspective, I am also able to view the scene as an observer; simply taking in it's beauty.

This is why I believe the question is difficult to answer. Who am I to interpret nature, while I am a combination of a million different experiences I have had, and I am constantly evolving. I believe no one interprets nature the “right way.” It is just their perspective during that point of their lives. 

Although our interpretation and understanding of nature is endlessly developing, one thing that remains the same is the “gift of beauty.” Whether we view nature in different ways, nature persists in its beauty without complying to a simple definition. In Chapter 5 of the textbook, Beck, Cable, and Knudson are able to describe nature’s beauty as, not only an aesthetic, but a way for us to connect with the world. This proposes the idea of nature’s inability to be limited into a single interpretation, but it is something to be expanded on, and possibly shared with. A shared experience of nature’s beauty is able to be universally enjoyed. While multiple, very unique people are observing the same scenery, a painter is admiring the colours of the sky and the shape of the trees, while a musician, standing beside them, is admiring the sound of the birds, the ruffles of the leaves. Meanwhile a hiker passes by, with the thought of a beautiful pathway, made to be climbed on. This is the gift of beauty; the universal yet infinitely personalized lens of the world around us.  

As my interpretation of nature continues to grow, as well as my perception of beauty, I am curious to see how differently I may appreciate a scene in the future, compared to myself today. 

References:

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

[saenvs3000semester]

Hi Julia!

I loved reading your perspective on privilege and how it relates to nature interpretation. I agree with the fact that having access to nature from an early age helps shape your appreciation for the environment. It's a great example of how privilege can present in ways that we might not always notice. Something as simple as hiking can influence your relationship to nature. How do you think your perspective on nature would be, if you had not had access to hiking trails or travelled growing up? I also like how you narrowed down privilege to 3 different aspects; economic, geographic, and physical. Although it is a complex concept, privileged experiences do end up in one of those 3 categories. In addition, I think its important to reflect on how these concepts intersect as well. For example, the advantage of geographic privilege can be overshadowed by economic limitations, as they would not be able to fully benefit from their location. Do you think one aspect has a higher impact on an individual than another aspect?

Another point I connected with, is the lack of diversity in nature interpretation roles. I believe it is very important to encourage a connection between nature and underrepresented individuals, as they bring a crucial perspective to others.

Between individuals feeling at ease and comforted with nature, and those that feel disconnected, how are we able to fill the divide between the two? I would love to see interpreters creating a welcoming and safe experience for all kinds of people, regardless of their economic, geographic, and physical background. Recognizing privilege is the first step in doing so!

Blog #3: Privilege

My definition of privilege is the advantage of more benefits over those of a particular person or group of people. In society we often talk about the hand we’re dealt in life. Some people are born more privileged than others by being a certain race/ethnicity, residing in a good neighborhood, having access to food/education and monetary wealth. This can lead to better opportunities in the workforce and fewer societal barriers. Privilege plays various roles in nature and nature interpretation from the level of education provided to the ease of access to said education. I also want to dive deeper into Darwin’s theory of natural selection and how adaptive traits contribute to privilege. 

When I think about my own privilege I consider myself very fortunate. I grew up in a family that allowed me access to various opportunities including university and travelling around the world. We also had access to a decent amount of nature in our backyard and to hiking trails around the city. This gave me the opportunity to explore my relationship with nature and grow a fondness of nature walks to improve my physical and mental well-being. I also had the privilege to work at a cafe during the summer to save up for books to educate myself, further enriching my experience with the environment around me. 

Nature interpretation is all about being able to immerse yourself in the environment which is why having access to those areas is crucial. As I mentioned above, I am fortunate to be living in an area with many hiking trails and national parks within a short drive from my house. When it comes to natural spaces, three types of privilege are: economic, geographic and physical. Oftentimes, parks will require visitors to pay a fee for using the facilities thus only allowing those who have the resources access to the park. The textbook dives deeper into economic barriers citing “the lack of personal vehicle or public transportation” (pg. 133). This can be true especially in rural areas where public transportation is scarce or even in urbanized business spaces where a car would be useful to travel to more remote locations. Additionally, some areas may have parks and trails nearby however, they are difficult to gain access to due to infrastructure or unsafe terrain conditions making them physically inaccessible. 

  Furthermore, nature interpretation encompasses the teaching of nature’s history and providing people with information to interpret on their own. If we are selective in the topics we teach or who we hire to teach them, this can lead to the feeling of exclusion. Chapter 7 of the textbook heavily discusses the idea of increasing employee diversity to include those of various ethnicities. I believe this is a major issue when it comes to privilege because if we don’t hire those with varying perspectives we won’t be educated on different versions of history. 

Lastly, I want to touch on Darwin’s theory of natural selection because I believe that adaptive traits play a big role in natural privilege. Though it doesn’t directly relate to nature interpretation, if certain species are born with more weapons or defense mechanisms they will have a better chance at survival. For example, lions are privileged in the context of nature because they are massive in size and have large claws that allow them to effectively hunt prey. Privilege comes in many shapes and sizes and can be interpreted differently by various individuals.

[saenvs3000semester]

What role does “privilege” play in nature interpretation? - Blog 3

Privilege plays a big role in nature interpretation. My definition of privilege is the advantage one has, due to an uncontrollable factor they possess. This can be in any area; school, work, relationships, opportunities, and even life itself. These advantages can go unnoticed to the person, but impacts their experiences compared to others. In nature interpretation, I believe privilege can either be to a person working, or a person speaking from a privileged stance. 

The person working can experience greater opportunities due to their race, gender, societal status, and more. Many people are easily able to access the outdoors due to their societal status, area, and their background. Coming from someone who lives in Mississauga, with a family that allows me to leave the house any time I want, I am able to drive to a trail and walk through a nature scene at any moment. This is something that a lot of people are unable to experience, whether they are in a city, have a strict upbringing, etc. I also have buses and cars accessible to me, with the money to pay for gas or a ticket. All these little things come into play when it comes to my ability to simply walk in nature, which is a privilege in and of itself.

Another situation would be money and language barrier. I have the money to study nature, with OSAP helping Canadians with their university fees, while others are unable to afford the classes. Others are unable to understand or express their interpretation, as they struggle to understand English. 

Someone who comes from privilege is able to speak about nature in a way that is different from others who engage with nature from an unprivileged stance. For example, through my experience living in a Canadian city, my view of the environment is different from an Indigenous person, or someone who experiences the threat of bombs when stepping outside. Their view and connection to the world is different from mine. Therefore, it is my duty to respect their views and remain culturally sensitive in order to recognize that my perspective is not the set perspective, and that others have their own views too. 

These are only a few ways in which privilege plays a role in nature interpretation. As someone who had the opportunity to be a third year student studying Biological Science, in a school that is an hour bus away, I am grateful to be where I am. I am able to express my ideas and thoughts freely through my blog, and communicate with my classmates easily. 

Recognizing privilege is important, as it reminds us to be all inclusive to others without the same ‘weight in our backpacks.’ My backpack may be empty, but another may be burdensome. Acknowledging this difference can allow for more inclusive experiences that accept different perspectives and open up doors for those who need it.

However, by acknowledging privilege, it is also important to recognize that these advantages alone are not enough to guarantee success. Someone with all the benefits may not be able to use it well, thus highlighting the importance of effort and determination. Although an underprivileged person would be required to work harder due to the lack of opportunities, strength and determination is the key factor to accomplishment. 

[saenvs3000semester]

Hi Piper!

I love how you connected your love for exploring the world and sharing your knowledge, with your role as an environmental interpreter. I personally love field research, but I only ever thought of researching areas near me. Travelling around the world is a beautiful way to study different environments based on the area you are in, and to teach a variety of different people. Communication is definitely an important skill to have when you experience this level of diversity. Through your experience as a camp leader, is there any advice you would give in order to help others communicate with younger audiences more efficiently? 

Your interest in the relationship between one’s health and the environment around them is very intriguing. I always believed that the things you surround yourself with, are able to affect you unknowingly. In regards to your example, it could be physically or even mentally. For example, someone may be taking walks outside, assuming it will help clear their mind. On the contrary, the air pollution in their area could be the root of their brain fog, and the walks are intensifying it.

I also admire how your passion is not only related to educating others, but to also gain a deep understanding and protect the environment. Research is very helpful in bringing awareness to any damage that is being done to both the earth and humans. This is why the goals you mentioned are important in addressing any issues in today’s world, and is a reminder of how powerful education can be. As you finish your undergraduate and masters, I hope that you continue to pursue this vision and make a meaningful impact in the world. I have no doubt that you will be able to inspire others to care for the environment and contribute to a healthier future! 

Blog 2: My Ideal Role as an Environmental Interpreter

I'm currently in my third year of a four-year bachelor of biological science. My ideal role as an environmental interpreter would allow me to merge my academic background with my passion for exploring and sharing knowledge about the natural world. I imagine a career that allows me to travel the world, explore diverse ecosystems, and share my passion for science and nature with others. Whether it's conducting research in remote locations, leading guided tours on a cruise or resort, or creating engaging educational content, I want to be in a position that blends discovery, education, and entertainment.

An ideal setting for this role would be dynamic and ever-changing. Working on a cruise as a guide or entertainer is especially appealing because it combines my love for travel, teaching, and engaging with others. I could introduce travelers to marine life, coastal ecosystems, and the science and culture behind the environments and we visit. Alternatively, I would love to be involved in field research, collaborating with international teams to study biodiversity in areas like rainforests, coral reefs, or even remote tundra regions. Both paths would allow me to combine my love of travel, education, and science in meaningful and impactful ways.

The skills required for this role are diverse and multifaceted. First and foremost, a deep understanding of ecology, evolution, and biology is essential to provide accurate and engaging information to audiences. My coursework in areas such as agriculture, human physiology, epidemiology, and immunology has given me a well-rounded scientific foundation. These subjects have deepened my ability to make complex biological concepts accessible and engaging, an essential skill for an interpreter.

Beyond scientific knowledge, communication is key. As an environmental interpreter, I would need to tailor my approach to different audiences, from school groups to cruise guests, ensuring the material is both informative and captivating. I have experience tailoring programs to younger audiences through my time as a camp leader. Creativity and adaptability are also critical, as the ability to engage with people from various cultural backgrounds and interests would be a regular part of the job.

In addition, I hope to pursue a master’s degree in physiotherapy, pathology, or another medical-adjacent field in the future. This aligns with my long-term interest in exploring how environmental factors influence human health, which could further enrich my role as an interpreter. For example, understanding the physiological effects of air or water pollution on human populations could add a compelling layer to my storytelling and advocacy.

Ultimately, my vision for this role extends beyond sharing knowledge. I hope to inspire others to appreciate and protect the world around them, while continuously learning and growing myself. Whether it’s through leading a group to spot humpback whales, teaching travelers about coral reef conservation, or collaborating on research to better understand the planet’s biodiversity, my goal is to make meaningful contributions to science and society. An ideal role as an environmental interpreter embodies everything I value—education, exploration, connection, and a commitment to leaving the world better than I found it.

[saenvs3000semester]

Ideal Role As An Environmental Interpreter - Blog 2

As an environmental interpreter, my ideal role would be to promote independent hands-on experiments. Personally, I am a visual and kinesthetic learner, with a preference for both seeing and experiencing. I feel as though that is the best way to fully understand something, because listening only helps to a certain extent. If I were to conduct an experiment for 2 hours, I believe I would focus for the entire duration, as I have something to see, think about, and do with my hands. Meanwhile, if I were to listen for 2 hours, I would have been distracted after a few minutes. I would also ask the participants to choose between group and independent work, as it allows for both active and reflective learning. The activity would help active learners retain information by doing it and explaining the information to other group members, while reflective learners can take their time and think about it quietly to themselves. 

My ideal workplace would be a research center or an education centre, where interactive experiments would be conducted. I would guide students or participants along on the hands-on experiences. For example, we could be testing a stream water’s pH level, the presence of pollutants in the water, testing different soils and their impact on plant life, etc. This would not only engage participants, but also deepen their connection with the environment. I would first teach verbally for a few minutes, on the basic knowledge needed to conduct each experiment. This would provide them with a foundation to work with, and build from. Then, I would split them into groups, or allow them to individually work, depending on what works best for them. There, they can conduct the experiment while asking me for help or any questions they may have. 

In this role, I would need a variety of skills. Firstly, a strong scientific background would be important as I am required to teach the students/participants before the experiments. I am also present to assist anyone during their work, so I would need to be prepared for all scenarios and questions. The work itself would require a meaningful design, which could only be created through the knowledge of the topic itself. Secondly, I would need to have excellent communication skills. Those who learn primarily through verbal lessons would depend on me to explain the lesson efficiently, in order to gain a solid understanding and interest. This includes the ability to explain scientific terms more simply, depending on the age group or level of previous knowledge that the participants have. Finally, being able to adapt and collaborate with all age groups, levels of skill, and learning styles is important, as everyone is unique and requires different measures of guidance. Not only is communication important with the participants, but also with the community workers, researchers, leaders, and others who would be helping with the study. Communicating the goal of the experiments is crucial to ensure the end result is our desired result. 

In conclusion, as an environmental interpreter,  I would ideally encourage active participation, whether in a group or alone. I believe applying the knowledge you have learned is one of the best ways to solidify it in your memory, as it uses almost all the learning styles.  This also provides the opportunity for each individual to use their own preferred method of learning while applying. For example, sequential vs. global learners using different techniques of undergoing the experiments. This would also leave a lasting memory in each participant and hopefully increase their love for nature.

Jungle Experiments – Amazon (II), 2017. Still from video (1:39).

[saenvs3000semester]

Hi Paige! I really enjoyed reading your blog. It's inspiring seeing your relationship with nature grow over the years. I can personally relate to finding a sense of relaxation and peace from walking outdoors. Especially as university students, we are so easily able to feel overwhelmed with our studies and responsibilities. Going on walks simply helps clear the mind. I have also bonded with my family and friends just by going on these walks with them, as it allows you to enjoy nature while having deep conversations.

It's also nice to see that your mom plays a big role in giving you a sense of place, and the cottage sounds very fun! Being near the lake and away from the city sounds like a beautiful way to reconnect with nature and your family. I would love to go to a cottage someday too, possibly with my friends or family. It seems as though your bonds would grow stronger while enjoying your time there. Have you ever spent time at a cottage with your friends? My friends and I have actually been talking about it for a while, and I believe it would be a very fun girls trip.

It's amazing to see your studies deepen your relationship with nature. As a biology student too, I tend to focus more on the human side of nature, such as anatomy and microbiology. However, taking an ecology course has deepened my appreciation for nature as I learned more about it. Seeing how biodiversity, the ecosystems, and the overall environment allowed me to value the connection of everything more. Now with nature interpretation, I'm interested to see how our connection deepens even further! :)

1) My Relationship With Nature

Welcome to my blog! My name is Paige, and I am a third-year student at the University of Guelph. I value experiencing nature and making time in the day to be outdoors. Going for walks in parks and forests is my favorite way to appreciate nature. My hometown is St. Thomas, Ontario, and I am fortunate to have multiple parks near my house. My mom and often visit Pinafore Park to walk and get fresh air. The park also connects to Lake Margret which is a beautiful small lake with a walking trail through the forest alongside the lake. After spending hours indoors during school or work, my mind craves a break, and the fresh air and calming views of nature always help me clear my thoughts and relieve stress. Spending time in nature has been found to reduce stress and anxiety, so whenever I am feeling overwhelmed with school, I go outside into nature. As well, experiencing nature by going for walks allows me to exercise as well as having a break from electronics and the stress of everyday life. 

Lake Margret trail in St. Thomas, ON. 

My relationship with nature has developed over time as I grew older. When I was young, playing outside was fun and adventurous. Now that I am older, I appreciate nature more as I realize how important it is for the mind. Going outside into nature is almost an instant relief from stress and tension. As a university student, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, making time in nature even more essential.

Now that I am living in Guelph, I have found new hiking trails, and a favorite of mine is the Rockwood Conservation Area. This is a new trail that I got to experience with my University friends. My relationship with nature grew when it connected being in fresh air with spending time with loved ones. Going for a walk in nature is not only a way to unwind but also an opportunity to bond with friends or family while enjoying the beauty of the outdoors.

Rockwood Conservation Area, Guelph. 

I have never been one for camping, but I enjoy going to my cottage in Haliburton, Ontario. My family has owned this cottage since I was a baby. It is near the lake and surrounded by forest. The weeks we go up, I spend lots of time in nature. In the summer we swim in the lake and go for hikes in the forest. In the winter we skate, go sledding, and hike through the snowy forest. My mom has given me my sense of place, especially through my cottage, as it is where I enjoy nature to the fullest. By going to my cottage every year, she has motivated me to explore nature and spend more time outdoors. I have also built so many memories, and our relationship has grown as we experience nature together. Experiencing the wildlife and plants is a very calming activity for me that my cottage has always provided. I have so many memories with my family at the cottage over the past 20 years.

Haliburton, ON. View of the forest and Kashagawigamog lake. 

My relationship with nature has also grown during my University years. I’m a biological science major and through my classes such as ecology and botany, I have learned more about plants and animals, which has helped me understand nature better. Learning has opened my eyes to the amazing life cycles and processes of plants and made me more curious when going out in nature. I believe my relationship with nature will continue to develop as I get older, and I will continue to learn more about the ecosystems around me!

[saenvs3000semester]

Evolution of Relationship with Nature - Blog Post 1

As a child, I loved spending time outdoors and playing with friends. Growing up in Abu Dhabi, where it was constantly hot and sunny, playing outside was something that I could do year round. We always went on family barbecues, outdoor trips like the beach and zoo, and much more. Every summer, we would visit Syria where my father's side of the family used to own a farm. I was able to go outside and pick a peach off a tree whenever I wanted to. This sparked my love for nature. The smell of fresh air, the view of grass and trees, and the sun shining, always made me feel better. There is a reason why Vitamin D is called the happy vitamin! We would spend entire days outdoors, which contrasts to my life in Canada.

Overtime, once I adapted to life in Canada, I began to stay indoors more often. Especially with the long winters that had me feeling trapped inside the house. For years I had been Vitamin D deficient due to the lack of sunshine that I was receiving, which required me to take prescribed Vitamin D pills. Fortunately, as I grew older, I began to realize how much I missed being outdoors and getting fresh air. I began going on walks on forest trails, as it made me feel relaxed and forced me to take a break from my phone. Although I do cardio at the gym, the view of nature was more calming to me than a walk on the treadmill. I can observe the movement of birds, leaves, and the running water beside the pathway. It offered a sense of peace. I would also have time to slow down and think clearly. Whenever life felt overwhelming, a walk outside helped me calm down.

Initially, my family were the ones who gave me a sense of place. All of my uncles, aunts and cousins are around me playing on a field or going on trips, brought me happiness. Overtime, as I settled in Canada, my sense of place shifted to nature itself. My friends would occasionally join me on my walks too, which makes the experience even more enjoyable. Here are some pictures of two trails that I have visited. The first picture features my friend walking along the trail that I visit the most frequently, as it is beside my house in Mississauga.

Not only is it comforting to see, but it also reminds me of how beautiful God's creation is. Observing nature reminds me to be thankful that I am able to take these peaceful walks, while other people may be going through much tougher times than me. For years, I used to stay home all day, never feeling the urge to step outside. This made me lose appreciation for the earth and the life that surrounds me. I wasn't able to understand how beautiful life really is while I am stuck in my room all day. Fortunately, I had a change in direction and I was able to leave my house and appreciate what I have. However, I still feel constricted in the winters when it is too cold to go on walks. I haven't found a solution for this yet, but for now I have had to cut back on the number of walks I can take during this season.

I still consider fresh air as nature, so I am also going to include my skating trips in this blog. Every winter, my city opens a skating rink, giving me the perfect opportunity to enjoy outdoor fun. While there aren't any trees or grass nearby, the open air alone is enough to appreciate the outdoors.

[saenvs3000semester]

Disclaimer

This blog was created for Sabeen Amoun, University of Guelph. 

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

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

81 notes