NATURE JOURNALING TO IMPROVE ENVIRONMENTAL OBSERVATION AND IDENTIFICATION SKILLS
Natural Resources/Aquaculture
Krista Stump
Natural Resources Extension Agent
University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Extension
Kissimmee
Abstract
With the influx of image recognition technology, people are relying less on their own observations and more on smartphone applications to identify plants and wildlife. While this advance in technology provides many benefits, observation skills are essential for environmental literacy and awareness. A nature journaling educational tool was developed as a method to incorporate scientific observation and identification practice in plant and wildlife programs. The measurable objectives were 1) to increase participants’ knowledge about plant and wildlife identification methods by 50%, and 2) for 50% of participants to practice scientific observation skills while completing an at-home activity. The nature journaling tool was incorporated into 8 classes from 2021-2022 reaching 152 participants. These classes covered topics such as birding, invasive plants, and healthy living. The activity included an introductory briefing about nature journaling methods and examples. Then, the participants were tasked with finding a plant or wildlife subject, recording observations, and adding a graphic or diagram to the entry. They used these observations to practice identifying the selected plant or wildlife subject. The participants’ relative knowledge gain was measured using a retrospective online test. The content of the test was tailored for each educational program but focused on the knowledge gained directly from the nature journaling activity. Of the respondents (n=32), there was a 72% relative knowledge gain about plant and/or wildlife identification. 81% of the respondents completed the nature journaling at-home activity at least once. In addition, ten nature journal entries were collected (with permission) from students for program evaluation purposes. Nature journaling allowed program participants to hone their observation and identification skills while out in nature. By practicing these skills, they improved their environmental literacy and awareness which can lead to behaviors that protect plants and wildlife, support natural lands, and improve overall wellbeing.
Authors: Krista Stump
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Krista Stump Natural Resources Agent, University of Florida, Florida, 34744