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Nature Journaling and Thinking
May 24 @ 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm PDT

Join a discussion with researcher Lindi Shepard on what her studies tell us about the impact of nature journaling on the way we think.
Through an analysis of naturalists’ journal pages alongside interview data, this study explores how naturalists come to understand the world around them, their community, and themselves through the practice of nature journaling. I will share my methods, findings, and implications of this exciting work.
Excerpt from the abstract:
“One cohesive feature of naturalists’ work is the use of field notebooks or journals. While content, purpose, and methods of use vary by practitioner, the act of intentionally documenting nature in the field with writing, sketches, measurements, and artistic elements is a common thread linking naturalists to one another through a shared practice. By externalizing mental representations, the journal as an artifact sheds light on the development of new ideas during observation and inquiry. My analysis applies frameworks and theories of creativity as lenses through which to explore the practice of field journaling and ways naturalists view and participate in the practices of science.”
About our Guest
Lindi Shepard is a classroom teacher-turned educational researcher whose work focuses on teacher education, the development of scientific reasoning skills, inquiry learning, and environmental education. She supports teachers around the country (and the globe!) to create joyful, inclusive learning communities.
Learn how to teach Nature Journaling! Join our weekly discussion and idea-sharing for teachers, home-school parents, and other educators interested in teaching nature journaling skills. Each meeting will have a theme. Most of the conversation that day will revolve around this core idea but expect interesting side routes and trails.
All ages and experience levels are welcome. No registration is necessary. If you are new to Zoom or are having trouble with the meeting controls, please see these notes and suggestions on Zoom Tips for Online Classes with John Muir Laws to help you get more out of the online workshop. When possible I will also make a recording of the workshop and post it on my blog. I look forward to seeing you there!
NOTE: Start time is 12 PM Pacific, 1 PM Mountain, 2 PM Central, 3 PM Eastern Time