Assignment task:
Pick a place in nature where you will be able to get to and spend 'uninterrupted' time in.
A place with access to trees, soil, rocks, water, animals, and so on. Not all of these, but natural elements are the focus. I also want you to pick a place that you will be able to harvest something later (like leaves, rocks, roots, berries, soil, bark, etc).
- Things to bring/plan for: make sure that you are wearing appropriate clothing for being outdoors. If you need to sit on a cushion or material, bring that. Do bring a note pad and something to write with, or a device to audio record your thoughts.
- Once you are in your place in nature, i want you to sit or stand in this place quietly for at least 10 minutes. Try not to think too much, but slowly let go of your thoughts and be present in the space.
- Conduct sensory ethnography 1 - For the next 10 minutes sense and pay attention to the place. What do you hear, smell, see, and physically feel/touch with your hands or body? Do not write during this time, only sense.
- For the next few minutes write or audio record your observations and thoughts about what you are sensing. Use bullet form for each of the four senses i'm asking you about.
You do not have to write in full sentences but write a few things for each and list as much as you can about what you're sensing.
- Add a few more notes in bullet form, just enough time to answer: what do you like or appreciate about being here/ and what do you find uncomfortable about being here?
- At some point later, pick a personal name for this place that you want to call it