Jasmine's Nature Interpretation

For my final required blog post, I wanted to kick things off by revisiting one of our first topics: my relationship to nature. I look back fondly on my childhood trips to our local park, where little hands would scavenge for buckeyes, stuffing them into pockets until they were full to bursting. This was done so my two brothers and I could have copious ammunition to throw at one another during our trail hikes (in case you weren’t aware, buckeyes are pretty much the perfect projectiles for rowdy children as these nuts are both small enough to not really hurt and heavy enough to allow for a bit of speed when given a proper 'thwiiip!'. Not that I’m condoning that of course, but you know... kids will be kids). I spent much of my childhood walking the creek behind my house and looking for tadpoles and climbing trees. 

I was given copious opportunities to connect with nature; from bike rides through our neighborhood to apple picking, soccer tournaments and camping trips and forts in the woods. In the video presented to us this week, Dr. Suzuki describes how children often aren’t given the chance to contemplate and absorb experiences today. We try to break down our lives into small chunks and cram as much into those chunks as we can (DavidSuzukiFDN, 2012). I’m lucky because I was given that space to just be, to think, to absorb, to come to my own conclusions and make my own discoveries. 

Moving forward as I grow into who I want to be as a nature interpreter, I’d like to think that my beliefs and my responsibilities will be geared towards helping children and other adults feel that same sense of discovery and joy and awe that I often felt as a kid. In the article “Why Environmental Educators Shouldn’t Give Up Hope” it is said that children love the art of discovering things (Clearing Magazine, 2019). I believe that allowing kids the opportunity to find things, to hunt for their own buckeyes, to search for their own tadpoles and to dig their hands in the dirt is imperative to building a strong relationship with nature. 

My belief is that everyone can find something they love about nature. Whether it’s your garden, as was the case for Richard Louv, or the mountain woods as it was for David Suzuki, there’s something for everyone (DavidSuzukiFDN, 2012). I see my responsibility, therefore, as helping people find the thing they love about nature. My responsibility is to spark the joy and the creativity that I feel being in nature, so others can enjoy it as well.  

According to Tilden’s Principles of Interpretation, the point of great interpretation is not just to deliver information to people, but to provide that information in a way that is engaging and uplifting and entertaining (Beck et al., 2018). We want to educate people, but we also want to inspire people! I’ve recently come to know Chris Earley, an interpreter who works at the Arboretum here on campus, and if you have the chance to get to know Chris or hear him speak, and I simply cannot stress this enough, take that opportunity!  

Chris is such a great naturalist, mostly because he loves what he does. His joy for nature is contagious. During my master's program, we all had to attend three workshops led by him. Each one was about seven hours long with an hour lunch break in the middle (a full day, to be sure). The workshops were designed to help us build our ID skills when it came to different kinds of birds (one workshop was aimed at hawks, one at ducks, and one at warblers). Chris wasted absolutely zero time in these workshops, teaching us as many as 35 different bird species in the span of just one workshop. It was A LOT of information, and most of us left exhausted from the bombardment of technical information being thrown at us. And despite these being some of the longest days we had, most of the students in my cohort agree: those workshops were our favorite. Why? Because of Chris.  

Chris’ knowledge is extensive, no one can argue that fact, but the way he teaches and engages people.... it’s another thing entirely. He kept our rapt attention for a total of twenty-one. hours. Talking JUST about birds! Before talking with Chris, I didn’t really have a huge interest in birds. I didn’t dislike them by any means, but I didn’t have any strong love for them. Now I look for them everywhere, I have a bird feeder at my window, I keep a birding log. I find it truly remarkable how one person’s joy can infect others, spreading the disease of ‘caring’ just as easily as influenza might travel through a crowded room. 

My approach to interpreting in the future is to simply let my affection and excitement about nature speak for itself. I love trees, I love birds, I love flowers and squirrels and bears, I love rivers, mountains, sunsets, and gardening! Nature is all around us, but I think sometimes, some people forget that. We like to place the blame for this problem on technology: many of us get so sucked into our screens, scrolling through social media or trapped behind a laptop doing school or work that we stop paying attention to Mother Nature. 

Now, I don't want you to get the wrong idea here, reader. I’m in my 20’s too, so I love video games and TV and TikTok as much as the next person our age. My plans for tonight in fact? Playing some Stardew Valley with my mom before watching the newest episode of Daredevil. Technology is great, and I don’t know that it’s 100% evil or deserves to take on the entire blame for the growing epidemic of environmental apathy. But I think there’s some work that needs to be done to break through that glass wall we hold in our hands. Work that we, as nature interpreters, are taking upon ourselves. It’s our job to be more engaging, interesting, and thought provoking than a magic doohickey that can tell you pretty much anything you want to know. 

So how can we do that? How will I do that? Like I said earlier, I think the answer lies in genuine enthusiasm and passion. I think it’s relatively safe to say that we all took this class because we love nature. Showing that love and allowing others to discover their own love for nature in their own way, in their own time, is how I believe we build deeper connections to the natural world. 

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REFERENCES

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

Clearing Magazine. (2019, June 17). Why environmental educators shouldn’t give up hope. CLEARING. https://clearingmagazine.org/archives/14300 

I absolutely loved reading your final blog. The way you opened with childhood memories of buckeyes and tadpole hunting was not only fun to read but also made me reflect on how powerful those early nature experiences really are. It’s so true! Those moments shape how we view and interact with nature later in life. I especially liked how you emphasized that nature interpretation isn’t about forcing knowledge but about creating space for discovery. That really connects with a point in our textbook where it implies that interpretation should "provoke" and not just "instruct" (Beck et al., 2018). I think your whole approach is a great example of that idea in action.

Also, your mention of Chris Earley’s impact was awesome. It shows how passion can be contagious. It reminded me how the textbook suggests one of the most important things interpreters can do - which is to reveal meanings and relationships through personal connection (Beck et al., 2018). You’ve clearly been on the receiving end of that kind of interpretation, and it’s so cool to see how you’re now thinking about passing it on.

And you’re right. Blaming technology alone isn’t enough. It’s on us, as future interpreters, to make the natural world feel relevant and exciting again. Your honesty about still loving TikTok while also loving rivers and trees made the post feel really real. That balance is something a lot of people can relate to, and it’s what makes your perspective so important.

Thanks for ending the semester on such a strong and inspiring note!

Reference:

As a developing nature interpreter, my personal ethic is grounded in a deep respect for the natural world, a commitment to fostering a sense of connection between humans and the environment, and a recognition of the responsibility we all share to care for the Earth. These beliefs shape the way I engage with nature, communicate about it, and approach my role as a bridge between the natural world and the public. My interpretation of nature is not just about educating people, but about encouraging them to see themselves as stewards of the environment. Below, I will explore the beliefs I bring to this field, the responsibilities I feel, and the approaches that are most suitable for me as an individual.

Beliefs I Bring to Nature Interpretation

At the core of my nature interpretation ethic is the belief that the natural world is not just a collection of individual species or ecosystems, but a complex, interconnected system. This interconnectedness informs my interpretation of nature and shapes how I approach the topic with others. I believe that the more people understand how their actions impact the environment, the more likely they are to care for it. This belief leads me to focus not only on facts but on fostering a deeper emotional connection between people and the land.

I also bring a belief in the intrinsic value of nature. While it’s often framed in terms of human utility—such as the resources nature provides for our survival or its role in maintaining human well-being—I see nature as valuable in its own right. I do not view nature merely as something for human consumption or enjoyment but as a living entity deserving of respect and protection. This respect guides my work as a nature interpreter, ensuring that I present nature as more than just a backdrop for human activity.

Lastly, I believe in the power of storytelling to make nature come alive. Nature is full of stories, from the tiny movements of ants on a forest floor to the dramatic migrations of birds across continents. These stories weave together to create an intricate narrative of life, survival, and interdependence. Through storytelling, I aim to inspire curiosity and wonder in others, helping them to see the natural world not as something distant and separate but as a place they are intimately connected to.

Responsibilities I Have as a Nature Interpreter

As a nature interpreter, I bear the responsibility to ensure that my audience is not only informed about nature but also inspired to act. My role goes beyond simply conveying facts about the environment; I am tasked with cultivating a sense of stewardship. I feel a profound responsibility to guide people toward a deeper understanding of their impact on the natural world and encourage them to take actions that will help preserve it for future generations.

One of my primary responsibilities is to present accurate and credible information. The world of nature is often misunderstood, and misinformation can easily spread. As a nature interpreter, it is crucial to provide scientifically accurate and up-to-date knowledge. This is especially important in today’s world, where environmental issues like climate change, habitat destruction, and species extinction are urgent and pressing. My interpretation should reflect not just the beauty and wonder of nature, but also the challenges it faces, empowering my audience to make informed decisions about how they interact with the environment.

I also have a responsibility to foster inclusivity in nature interpretation. Nature does not belong to any one group; it is a shared resource for all people. This means that my interpretation should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or experience with the natural world. It’s important to make the experience of connecting with nature open and welcoming, ensuring that all people feel comfortable and valued in natural spaces. This inclusivity extends to recognizing and respecting the diverse ways in which people relate to nature, whether it’s through cultural traditions, spiritual practices, or personal experiences.

Another key responsibility is to be a role model for environmental stewardship. In my work, I must practice what I preach. This means being conscious of my environmental footprint, advocating for sustainable practices, and leading by example. The way I interact with nature, from leaving no trace on trails to using eco-friendly materials in my programs, sends a message to my audience about how they too can take care of the Earth. Actions often speak louder than words, and my behavior can serve as a powerful example of how to live in harmony with nature.

Approaches Most Suitable for Me

As an individual, I believe that my approach to nature interpretation must be rooted in a sense of authenticity, empathy, and creativity. These qualities allow me to connect with people on a personal level and create experiences that resonate long after the program has ended.

One of the approaches that I find most effective is engaging with people through direct, hands-on experiences. I believe that people learn best when they are actively involved, so I strive to create immersive, participatory experiences that allow my audience to engage with nature in a meaningful way. Whether it’s a guided hike, a citizen science project, or a wildlife observation session, I find that these types of activities allow participants to form a more personal and lasting connection with the environment. By encouraging them to observe, ask questions, and actively participate, I help them shift from passive observers to engaged stewards.

I also believe in the power of using narrative and storytelling to communicate about nature. Rather than presenting dry facts and figures, I strive to tell stories that bring the natural world to life. This might involve sharing anecdotes about the history of a landscape, the behavior of animals, or the interconnectedness of ecosystems. Through storytelling, I can evoke emotions like wonder, curiosity, and empathy, which are often the catalysts for lasting behavioral change. Stories help people see nature not as a distant or abstract concept but as something they are a part of.

As someone who is passionate about nature, I also aim to be a lifelong learner. The natural world is always changing, and there is always something new to discover. I see my role as a nature interpreter not just as a teacher, but as a student of the environment. By continuing to learn, whether through formal education or personal exploration, I can stay informed and keep my interpretations fresh and relevant. This approach allows me to share up-to-date knowledge with my audience and demonstrate the value of curiosity and lifelong learning in relation to nature.

Lastly, I embrace the importance of empathy in my work. Understanding that people come from different backgrounds and perspectives allows me to tailor my approach to best meet their needs. Some individuals may feel a strong connection to nature from the outset, while others may be more distant or even fearful. By listening to their stories, being patient with their questions, and adjusting my approach to suit their level of interest and comfort, I can help everyone feel welcome and valued in the natural world.

I loved your post! Your thoughts about seeing nature as valuable beyond just human needs really hit home for me. It reminded me of something in our textbook about how interpretation isn’t just passing along information. It’s actually about helping visitors discover their own personal connections to nature (Beck et al., 2018). Your storytelling approach is perfect for that because it leaves room for visitors to find their own meanings instead of just telling them what they’re supposed to feel.

I also thought your point about inclusivity was spot-on. Nature really is for everyone, and it’s so important that interpreters make sure their messages reach diverse audiences. The textbook highlights how crucial it is for interpreters to consider visitors’ different backgrounds, cultures, and experiences when designing programs (Beck et al., 2018). Your commitment to this makes me think more carefully about how I can adjust my own approach to be more inclusive, especially considering my Lebanese heritage and growing up in a diverse city like Mississauga.

Lastly, your reflection about practicing what we preach was great. It’s easy to tell visitors to respect nature, but demonstrating that respect through our own actions can have an even bigger impact. The idea of interpreters serving as role models is something the textbook emphasizes as a key responsibility (Beck et al., 2018), and your post really inspired me to reflect more deeply on this in my daily life.

Thanks for sharing your awesome insights. I learned a lot from them!

Reference:

Imagine standing at the edge of a forest, where the scent of pine, plants and the damp earth lingers in the air. The sunlight shines through a canopy of leaves, covering the ground in golden hues. You close your eyes and listen, the rustling of leaves as the wind carries whispers through the branches, the rhythmic hum of insects, the distant call of a bird. Every element, every sound, every scent is part of a delicate, interconnected symphony, one that speaks to something deep within us.

Nature to me, just doesn't exist, it heals.

One of the most amazing things about the natural world is its ability to restore us, physically and mentally. Scientists have long studied the relationship between green spaces and human well-being, and the findings are profound. I did my thesis on therapeutic nature and gardens and findings said exposure to nature can lower cortisol levels, reduce blood pressure, and even enhance cognitive function. Some hospitals now integrate therapeutic gardens into their design, recognizing that even a short time spent in a green space can speed up recovery rates. In Japan, the practice of Shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, is prescribed as a treatment for stress and anxiety, reinforcing what many of us already feel intuitively, nature is medicine.

But it’s not just about the forests. Water, too, holds a hypnotic, almost magnetic pull. Standing at the banks of a river, watching the current carve its way through stone, reminds us of time’s gentle persistence. Bodies of water doesn't just provide sustenance for ecosystems, they shape civilizations, inspire cultures, and soothe the restless mind. There’s a reason people are drawn to the sound of waves or the babble of a stream; researchers suggest that moving water induces a meditative state, helping us feel more at ease.

And what about gardens, spaces where humans and nature intersect most intimately? In my thesis I researched that long-term care facilities, utilize sensory gardens and are being designed with intention, stimulating memory, reducing agitation, and enhancing social interaction among patients with dementia. Each plant, each scent, each texture is carefully chosen to evoke a sense of familiarity, security, and joy. Imagine an elderly resident running their fingers over the velvety leaves of lamb’s ear, the scent of lavender bringing back long-forgotten childhood summers. These small moments, orchestrated by nature, can be transformative.

I really liked your perspective on nature’s ability to heal, both physically and mentally. The way you described forests, water, and gardens as spaces that restore us was super compelling. It reminded me of something the textbook mentions about how interpretation helps people form emotional connections to nature (Beck et al., 2018). When people experience nature in meaningful ways, like through forest bathing or sensory gardens, it deepens their appreciation and makes them more likely to care about conservation.

Your point about green spaces reducing stress and improving well-being is backed by so much research. Studies have shown that simply spending time in nature can lower cortisol levels and improve cognitive function, just like you mentioned. In interpretation, this idea ties into the concept of “meaning-making,” where people don’t just passively observe nature but engage with it in ways that are personally significant (Beck et al., 2018). When people understand nature’s role in their well-being, they’re more likely to protect it.

I also thought your section on water was really interesting. The idea that moving water has a meditative effect makes so much sense, and it connects to how interpretation isn’t just about facts but about emotional impact. Water has always been a huge part of human culture, and the textbook talks about how effective interpretation often brings in cultural perspectives to make nature more relatable (Beck et al., 2018). 

Overall, your post does a great job of showing how nature isn’t just something to look at. It’s something we experience. It made me think differently about how interpretation can help people realize that nature is more than just scenery. It’s a force that actively shapes our lives!

It was a delight reading your post. I look forward to your next post!

References

Have you ever been in a quiet forest and just stopped to listen? You can hear the rustling of leaves and animals singing to communicate with each other. To me, this is music that is found in nature. Stories, songs, poems, and dances are used to teach and inform while also being entertaining and keeping the audience engaged. These can also be used to give the audience an emotional response and allow a deeper meaning to be found. Art forms help preserve cultural heritage while fostering a deeper appreciation for the messages they convey. The challenges that interpreters face are to capture the audience's attention and to get people emotionally involved in the information (Beck et al., 2018). Music is a way to capture viewers while also providing a means for people to open up. Music can bring up feelings that words alone cannot while bridging the gap between knowledge and emotion.

My first thought about finding nature in music is The Four Seasons by Vivaldi made in 1723. This piece conveys how nature feels in music and is an expression of each season. Music can also be found in music through recorded sounds. This creates an ambient atmosphere that people listen to when looking for a more calming sound. For example, rain sounds, ocean waves, or bird calls can make people feel more connected to nature and the outdoors. Using nature metaphors in songs is another example of nature found in music. These increase the understanding of song messaging by using more vivid and memorable language. Music can create many feelings while also sharing important messages. Additionally, music is a tool for nature interpretation as it can reach a large amount of people (Beck et al.,).  This can broaden the audience and give more people opportunities to access nature interpretation. By incorporating music into environmental interpretation, we can inspire a greater sense of responsibility toward the natural world.

The connection between music and memories can be powerful. A song that takes me back to a natural landscape is Fallingwater by Maggie Rogers which takes me back to many different places in nature. It reminds me of summer camp on overnight backcountry trips when our counsellors would play it when we got to our campsites each day. It takes me back to Algonquin Park at the end of challenging yet fulfilling days of paddling and hiking. This was probably the time when I was the most immersed in nature. This song also takes me back to many campfires and days near the water. I find this song relaxing and will play it any chance I get.

I really liked your post, especially how you connected Fallingwater to your memories of camping and being in nature. It’s cool how a song can become tied to a specific place or experience, even years later. I totally get what you mean about music making you feel more connected to nature. There’s something about certain songs that just fit the environment you’re in at the time.

Your post actually made me think about what the textbook says about sense of place (Beck et al., 2018). It talks about how interpretation helps people form deeper connections to places, and I feel like music does the exact same thing. Even if you’re not physically there, hearing a song can bring you right back to that moment. For you, it’s Fallingwater and Algonquin Park. For me, it’s Fairuz and long road trips through Quebec and Ottawa with my family. It’s wild how sound alone can trigger such strong memories.

Also, I liked your point about using nature sounds in music to create a calming atmosphere. It reminds me of how some places, like parks or museums, use ambient sounds to make experiences more immersive. Music kind of works the same way. It makes a moment feel more real and sticks with you long after.

Great post! Definitely adding Fallingwater to my playlist.

References

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

Hayms begins the quote by saying that it is not the age of something that makes something valuable, but the integrity of it. Integrity requires keeping its history together through memory and connections. He then describes that having an awareness of history allows these stories to have meaning about the past and empowers history to have meaning in the future. History will always be a part of how our world was shaped and will continue to shape our future. 

Another quote from the textbook that enforces Hayes’ idea is from the American Association for State and Local History (AASLH): “History serves us in many ways. It can delight and enrich us, inspire and caution us, inform and educate us, help us make thoughtful decisions, enlarge and intensify the experience of being alive.” This demonstrates that history is used to make informed decisions and creates an increased meaning in life. Additionally, history creates meaning behind places and shapes a community's value. This is viewed in places that have a rich history such as Quebec City in Canada or Athens in Greece. These places have deep meaning and cause more people to want to live there. These places also have lots of tourists which increasingly shapes the value of a community.

Interpretive writing creates accessible knowledge for the viewers and enhances locations. Park signs or trail maps create a more immersive experience or a website that aims to give access to more people and share information. Especially when in a new location, signage can be helpful to orient a visitor and create interest. Interpretive writing that is intentional and enthusiastic can create an opportunity to share meaningful thoughts including historical information that connects the audience to what is around them.

Natural history is created through evidence-based stories. For the public to understand history, science-based evidence needs to be interpreted into understandable material. Nature interpretation through history has been done in the past and should be continued to record history for the future. There are many ways history has been shared; through photographs, stories, paintings, and science. This material allows us to look at the environment as it changes and untangle the meaning of the present and what it could mean for the future. We can also look at the different ways nature has been interpreted in the past. The environment has been interpreted through myths, religion, scientific discovery, and emotional connections. This shows how humans have always interacted and connected with nature. Humans have always found meaning in nature and history continues to emphasize the value we find in the environment.

Your post really got me thinking, especially about the idea that history doesn’t just shape the past but also gives meaning to the present. The part about Quebec City and Athens stuck with me because it’s true. Places with deep historical roots feel different. It’s not just about the old buildings or artifacts, but about how the stories tied to them continue to shape the way people experience those spaces. It makes me wonder about places that don’t have an obvious historical presence, like suburbs or newer cities? Do they lose something by not having that shared historical memory, or do people just find meaning in other ways?

I also appreciated how you mentioned that interpretive writing makes history more accessible. It reminded me of the signs you see on hiking trails or in parks that transform a basic rock or tree into a story about how the landscape evolved. Without this context, we can simply walk by, unaware that there is history right in front of us. However, I've found that some interpretations leave out uncomfortable aspects of history, such as how national parks were established by forcibly displacing Indigenous communities from their lands. So, while interpretive writing makes history more engaging, do you believe it has the ability to influence the aspects of history we choose to remember?

I really liked how you brought in different ways nature has been interpreted, from myths to science. It made me think about how interpretation is kind of a reflection of what we value at any given time. It’s interesting how science-based explanations dominate now, but for so much of human history, nature was understood through storytelling. Maybe we lose something by looking at nature only through facts and not through the emotional or cultural connections people once had to it.

As I reflect on this unit's exploration of nature interpretation through science, I am struck by the balance between technical knowledge and accessibility in environmental communication. Science provides us with a structured, evidence-based approach to understanding nature, but the effectiveness of that knowledge depends on how we convey it to different audiences. This unit has reinforced the idea that interpretation is not just about relaying facts but about fostering connection, curiosity, and engagement.

One of the most striking aspects of this unit was the emphasis on multiple perspectives in nature interpretation. Science is one lens through which we can view nature, but it is not the only one. Art, literature, personal experience, and cultural traditions all contribute to a more holistic understanding of our environment. This aligns with my own experiences in environmental science, where interdisciplinary approaches often lead to richer insights. A scientific approach can tell us the chemical composition of soil or the migratory patterns of birds, but a cultural or artistic perspective might help us understand the deep emotional and historical connections people have with a particular landscape.

The Arboretum at the University of Guelph serves as an excellent example of integrating multiple perspectives in nature interpretation. While scientific knowledge forms the foundation of guided walks, the experience is not limited to dry facts. Instead, educators incorporate interactive learning, storytelling, and personal engagement, making the information more accessible and memorable. A guided walk might begin with an introduction to the ecological role of a specific tree species but then weave in Indigenous knowledge about its traditional uses, or invite participants to touch, smell, and listen to their surroundings to deepen their connection to the environment. This approach creates a more immersive and inclusive experience, allowing diverse audiences to find meaning in the natural world.

One of the most interesting aspects of this unit was the discussion on naming nature. The assumption that scientific interpretation requires an extensive knowledge of taxonomic history is common, yet it overlooks the fact that effective interpretation depends on the audience. While scientific names and classifications are valuable, they may not always be the best entry point for a general audience. For instance, while the Latin name Acer saccharum accurately identifies the sugar maple, it may not resonate with someone unfamiliar with botanical nomenclature. Instead, describing it as the tree responsible for producing maple syrup or the one whose leaves turn brilliant red in autumn provides a more relatable and engaging way to connect people to nature.

Engaging storytelling, sensory descriptions, and relevant analogies can help bridge the gap between scientific information and public understanding. Rather than listing facts about a bird’s wingspan or diet, an interpreter might tell a compelling story about its migration journey or compare its flight pattern to something familiar, like a paper airplane. Sensory engagement—encouraging people to feel the texture of tree bark, listen to the rustling leaves, or smell a crushed pine needle—makes the experience more immersive and memorable.

I liked reading your post a lot. It’s obvious that you’ve really thought about this topic and I appreciate that as well. I really liked how you highlighted the importance of combining science, cultural, and artistic views to better understand nature. This made me think of how Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage highlights the importance of engaging people emotionally and mentally. (Beck et al., 2018). It considers the various ways people connect with the environment.

Your example of the Arboretum really shows how understanding can be more than just facts. Touching tree bark or listening to leaves moving helps people connect more deeply with nature, as mentioned in Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage (Beck et al., 2018). These hands-on activities make nature feel real and close, instead of far away or complicated. I think these kinds of experiences not only create lasting impressions but also encourage people to take action to protect nature.

I found your point about naming nature very interesting too. You’re correct that scientific names are important for accuracy, but they don’t always connect with the general public. Describing a tree by talking about maple syrup or its bright colours in fall makes it easier for everyone to understand and connect with. This reflects how interpretation should meet people where they are and make nature feel relevant to their lives.

Thank you for the thoughtful post. It helped me see how interpretation can adapt to different perspectives and how much this shapes our connection to the environment!

References

To ask someone how and why they would interpret nature through art is really such a simple question, nature evokes emotion in us. As I have mentioned many times in my blog posts, the fact is that humans feel good in nature because we evolved to be in it. Our brains are wired to identify plants and animals through pattern recognition skills, our eyes are much more sensitive to green light wavelengths than any others, and our bipedal legs were built to walk and run if we are able. The emotion that we feel when seeing a sunset, a magnificent tree, or special rock formation, is real, special, and needs to be expressed. 

A modern form of interpretation through art is the simple click of our phone cameras! In this day and age, who doesn’t whip out their phone when there is a stunning sunset upon us, I see it happen more often than not. Some may see this phenomenon and think that people are blinded by technology, but I choose to see the sincerity in this act. Whether they show this photo to their loved ones when they get home from their walk, or set it as their phone wallpaper, it was a purely human act to feel nature’s beauty and express that emotion through art (in this case photography). Beyond this example, I think everyone has interpreted nature through art at least once in their life. Have you ever drawn a picture when you were young with the sun in the top corner of your page? From some of our earliest moments in life, we show that as humans we intrinsically find nature as something beautiful that should be captured through art and cherished. 

All of this leads me to the concept of “the gift of beauty”. Indulge me in an exercise:  Think of a loved one, someone who has been in your life for a long time, someone who has been there for you through thick and thin. You probably feel a sense of peace, happiness, maybe even beauty? People who have always been there for us have an intrinsic value in our eyes, no matter what they look like, what they are going through, or even their shortcomings, you love them and see their worth as a person. When we think of our earth as a living being, some may even see it as a mothering figure (mother earth), perhaps the same feelings you might feel towards your human caregivers arise as well. This is the gift of beauty, for me this arises as the love I feel from the earth and how I know that it has always been there for me, and has quite literally brought me life. 

Your post was a pleasure to read! You made some excellent points regarding how people are drawn to nature naturally and how it stirs up powerful feelings in us. As explained in Interpreting Cultural and Natural Heritage, interpretation is intended to encourage stewardship by establishing an intellectual and emotional connection between individuals and the environment (Beck et al., 2018). Your post, in my opinion, illustrates that concept wonderfully.

I really liked your view on using phone photography to connect with nature. It made me think of a piece I read from the North American Nature Photography Association. It suggests that taking nature photos can help our mental and physical health. Taking photos of nature scenes can help us connect more with our surroundings instead of simply observing at them (Gallagher, 2022). Your example of phone photography perfectly shows this deeper connection to nature.

I really found your metaphor of Earth as a caregiver to be rather remarkable. This is a really strong approach to consider our relationship with the natural world. Do you believe that framing Earth this way could motivate people to act more on environmental issues? This point of view seems to enable individuals to view conservation as something personal and meaningful rather than only a far-off idea.

Thanks for sharing such a thoughtful post. It gave me a lot to think about!

References

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

I would like to start this blog post off with a reflection question for all of the lovely people who are reading this right now. Name three things that you take for granted. I’ll go first! 

I am so privileged to be able to afford and receive a post-secondary education. 

I am so privileged to have no extreme health conditions, and am able to live a happy and healthy life thanks to our access to healthcare. 

I am so privileged to be able to live in a safe community where there is no threat of violence. 

Privilege is one beauty in life where those who have it, do not tend to appreciate it until its absence. We all forget how fortunate we are to be able to walk on two feet until we trip and break an ankle, and have to spend hours in the emergency room. A privilege is an advantage and ability granted to select individuals, frequently due to their social position in society. 

In the context of nature interpretation, the role played by privilege is seen in the voices who are prioritized when narrating the stories and knowledge associated with the environment being interpreted. Privilege also determines the extent to which cultural values are understood and integrated into the information being conveyed. Land acknowledgements at the beginning of interpretations act as the “precautionary principle”, and tend to be the most effort put into recognizing minoritized Indigenous voices; making European perspectives the dominant source of information. People would rather simply mention that they are aware they are on the land of Indigenous peoples, rather than actually considering why they are acknowledging these voices. It is a privilege to be able to amplify Indigenous voices, and spread their knowledge to those who are interested in the form of nature interpretation. 

It is imperative to also bear in mind the ways and methods in which these conservational parks and areas came to be. The analogy of the invisible backpack is highly prevalent in the conversation of who’s tellings are prioritized in nature interpretation settings. Perspectives regarding how the parks became to be vary based on the individual interviewed. While it may be land untouched by industrialization and construction to the euro-centric eye, it may have once been a home to which Indigenous peoples were banished from. The continents of the euro-centric perspective’s invisible backpack leads to the perception of a beautiful environment, in which they spread the value of nature to those who choose to come and observe. On the contrary, Indigenous peoples and their knowledge and teachings are considered as a secondary source of information; despite this land being theirs to begin with. 

All in all, I believe that those who have privilege should amplify the voices of those who don’t. Colonialism and European ideas have played a major role in the destruction and erasure of Indigenous peoples (and to be honest, any minoritized group to begin with). Value to a subject is provided based on a group’s privilege. In this context, the role played by privilege in nature interpretation is what shapes the amount in which information is emphasized or disregarded by interpreters. 

1. I take for granted the ability to help my brother with his schoolwork, something I’ve always seen as a family responsibility but realize not everyone has the support network or stability to offer.

2. I take for granted the fact that I’ve had access to green spaces within walking distance of my home - it’s a privilege to be able to connect with nature without needing a car or extra resources.

3. I take for granted the privilege of being trilingual (French, English, and Arabic), which has made it easier for me to access education, jobs, and even tutor others in a way that I know not everyone can.

Your point about privilege shaping who gets to feel welcome in nature really struck a chord with me. I hadn’t fully considered how much privilege influences not just accessibility but also whose stories are prioritized. Like you, I’ve seen land acknowledgments treated like an obligation rather than a genuine act of reflection, and it’s frustrating. The fact that Indigenous knowledge is so often sidelined in environmental narratives is exactly why interpreters need to be more intentional.

Your post also made me think about how privilege is tied to resources we often don’t even notice we have - whether that’s language, education, or access to the outdoors. How do we make sure that interpretation doesn’t just reflect diverse voices but actively uplifts them? Thank you for this reminder to not just recognize privilege but to use it for good.

In the textbook on page 121, James Moses, President and CEO of Road Scholar, once said, “Most of all, we hope the occasion of Lifelong Learning Day inspires all Americans to learn and to make a habit of lifelong learning. I promise you: It will make you feel good, it may help you live longer and, most importantly, you'll meet interesting people and have fun along the way.”

This statement directly aligns with my ideal position as an environmental interpreter. The goal is not a short-term temporary connection but one that can help our everyday lives for the rest of our lives.

Helping people establish a lasting connection with the environment is my vision and objective as an environmental interpreter. The goal of interpretation, as outlined in Chapter 5, is to demonstrate the deeper significance and relevance of the natural world in ways that speak to each person's unique sense of self. This involves creating experiences that inspire interest, and make meaningful true connections.

In this role, I see myself leading engaging programs that combine learning and fun. Activities like storytelling sessions, interactive workshops, and guided walks would be made to appeal to individuals of all ages and backgrounds. As stated in  Chapter 5, it's critical to make interpretation interesting and pertinent so that participants' minds and imaginations are stimulated. With these initiatives, I want to transform temporary experiences into real, relevant experiences that encourage environmental care and appreciation.

Building on this, Chapter 6 highlights the value of lifelong learning in enhancing social ties and promoting personal well-being. I would incorporate these ideas into my programs by promoting open discussion and active engagement. Group projects like planting trees or starting communal gardens, for instance, could offer possibilities for connection as well as practical learning. In addition to enhancing participants' comprehension of the natural world, these programs would strengthen their sense of belonging and common purpose.

Although this all sounds like a walk in the park, this role requires strong communication skills along with adaptability to engage and educate diverse audiences effectively with different learning styles. A solid understanding of ecological systems and the ability to inspire curiosity are essential to becoming an environmental interpreter.

I myself have these skills and would be an excellent candidate. My years as a soccer coach have equipped me with the ability to effectively communicate, adjust to various personalities, and motivate teamwork and excitement. Just as an environmental interpreter, I educate young soccer players and hopefully help them learn meaningful skills that will stay with them for life.

I know I'm a bit repetative but I'm really trying to hit my argument home. Not all interpreters happen to be the same. The term "interpreter" highlights how crucial it is to adjust to a variety of audiences, settings, and subjects. Every interpreter contributes their own distinct viewpoint, abilities, and enthusiasm to the position, modifying their strategy to establish deep connections and promote comprehension in ways that appeal to their target audience. Nonetheless, they all share the objective, of a long-term connection that can improve our everyday lives.

I really enjoyed reading your post! The way you connected your experience as a soccer coach to environmental interpretation stood out to me. It’s such a great example of how skills like communication, teamwork, and adaptability can translate into so many different settings. Coaching requires a lot of flexibility in working with different personalities and learning styles, which is such an important part of being an effective interpreter as well. Your ability to motivate and engage people will definitely serve you well in this role.

I also really liked your focus on creating long-term connections with people. That’s what makes interpretation so impactful - it’s not just about giving people information, but about inspiring them to care and carry that experience forward in their lives. You made a great point about making interpretation meaningful and tailored to your audience. I think activities like storytelling and interactive programs, as you mentioned, are some of the best ways to make sure people stay engaged and connect to what they’re learning.

Your emphasis on lifelong learning ties in perfectly with Chapter 6 of the textbook and its discussion on how interpretation enhances social connections and personal well-being. It’s clear you’re passionate about helping people connect with nature in a way that benefits them emotionally and intellectually. Your coaching experience adds such a unique perspective to this, especially since it’s about working closely with people to help them grow and succeed.