Nature-learning
Mareike Dobewall
Thanks for joining.
With nature-learning I explore a gentle pedagogical approach that caters both to self-learners (autodidacts) and educators. This method acknowledges the fluidity of learning. The materials I observe continually evolve based on their inherent physical properties.
The dynamic process of learning with and from nature involves an immersive engagement with the subject matter, requiring the learner to be fully present and deeply connected with their environment. While observing, one may even experience being part of the observed entity, fostering a profound affective response.
The concept of nature-learning is an educational strategy and a paradigm shift in how we perceive the process of learning. It proposes that by engaging directly with nature, learners can develop adaptable learning processes. This approach aligns with the philosophical propositions of thinkers like Rosi Braidotti, who advocates for the integration of non-human elements into our knowledge formation processes, thereby enriching our understanding of the world around us.
In this learning process I experience natural phenomena posing questions, offering propositions and, most importantly, encouraging to observe, listen, and inquire without preconceived notions. Nature-learning recognizes the unique value of diverse forms of knowledge. It is influenced by Karen Barad’s concept of “intra-action” to explore the reciprocal affective exchanges between the learner and their environment.
By incorporating a diverse range of media, this exposition seeks to engage the visitor on multiple levels. In addition, there will be tasks that engage the visitor to practically start the process of learning from nature. The inclusion of multisensory experiences is aimed at creating a more holistic engagement with the content. By joining different media, I aspire to create a multisensorial experience that closely mimics the immersive experience of learning from and within nature.
What impressions do the patterns in the maple seed make on you?
(zoom in to observe more closely if you like)
When I collaborate with patterns in nature to guide my music compositions, I connect what I observe with all I am – all my senses, my memories, my knowledge, my whole body.
Some patterns inform my aural imagination so directly that I right away record the sonic patterns that come to my mind as a voice memo to stay close to the initial response.
Then there are patterns that inform me of a different way of being. They reveal complex and unfamiliar rhythms.
(Play the video by clicking on the image. Access full screen in right bottom corner.)
Voluntary Task: Choose an instrument of your choice and translate the moving patterns above into live sound. You can use your voice, percussive tools like objects and body parts, or tend to any other form of expression. You may prefer to use paper and pen and see what comes out by drawing while watching these patterns evolve, deconstruct and develop further.
I will share some thoughts with you in the following sound file. You can run the sound file first then watch the video, play the video and sound file at the same time, or just watch and just listen. You can choose how to engage with the material. Click on the image to start the video. You can go to fullscreen in the right corner.
This was just the
beginning.
Allow patterns in
your environment to
teach you
something,
something concrete,
something abstract,
something you
already knew and
something yet to be
discovered.
About the author
Mareike Dobewall is a director, scenographer, musician and composer. Her work is not bound to a genre but rather crosses the boundaries of genres and includes various art forms.
She studied at Kaskeline Filmakademie in Berlin, at the Norwegian Theatre Academy in Fredrikstad, at Inter-University Center for Dance Berlin (HZT) and at Stockholm University of the Arts. She has worked in film, theatre, dance, music and installation art. In the past years she has put a main focus on the qualities of sound in live performance.