Nature vs. Natures

​

Description:  In my intro to Urban Field-based instruction, I was able to develop a presentation,  “When Nature Becomes Plural” that showcased educational strategies learned in the course.  The students organized a conference where we invited the public and people from IslandWood and Antioch University Seattle.  

Analysis:  My presentation, “When Nature Becomes Plural”, is drawn upon my admiration for Bruno Latour’s The Politics of Nature and my belief that effective environmental education has to acknowledge the multiple ways of knowing and engaging in nature.  Also, I give differing definitions of nature that are not always positive for people.  I used strategies, like inquiry-based teaching and audience engagement as well in the presentation.   

Reflection: My intro to Urban Field-based instruction course was one of the most valuable courses I took. One reason it was powerful was because of my Instructor John Haskin. Professor Haskin had a very engaging way of teaching that showcase different strategies for teaching and engaging audiences. He took feedback from the students and allowed us to take ownership of our learning and ways of teaching and knowing. His ability to give up power and encourage us to flourish inspired me and fueled what I thought to be a successful conference and presentation.