Picture Science: Learning to see through drawing
January 2025
Field Sketching, or Nature Journaling, is a method used to connect with nature through firsthand observations. Sketches are developed in a journal based on these observations.
This course is best suited for:
The course is capped at 15 people.
Only when waters recede at a low tide does the intertidal zone reveal its majesty to the careful explorer. We will be right there to make scientific observations.
Field sketches are developed in a journal based on your observations. Words referencing things like weather, date, time of day, and characteristics of the object are added to further describe the moment. These descriptive words are a form of data collection or note-taking commonly used in Science.
The field sketching session will be followed by a discussion with Imène on How Ecosystems Adapt In A Changing Environment.
A box with all the materials needed for the day
A box with all the materials needed for the day
Sami Chang is a science illustrator who is particularly interested in marine ecosystems and the complex interactions displayed between different marine organisms and their environment. Her interests also expand above sea level and into the world of terrestrial organisms and processes. Through my artwork, I wish to inspire others to enjoy the natural world around us in hopes to protect it for future generations.
Her work can be found at https://www.schangstudios.com/
This course is made available to participants at no cost.
I really loved talking about our identities in STEAM and where they started. I loved discussing how we can implement personal connection and create a culture of safety for identity in the classroom.
Field sketching was a perfect opportunity to slow down and be immersed in the life and landscape of the California coast. So much beauty, movement, and stillness provided a wonderful scene for some close looking through sketching and note taking. Sami is a wonderfully thoughtful and talented teacher and Imène is a welcoming host and organizer.
Being on the coast, learning from a talented artist and teacher, and being in community with other educators were all parts of the experience I appreciated. I think what was most moving for me was being present, slowing down, and looking closely in nature. Starting to draw a shell only to have it move a little bit and realizing it is a hermit crab. Trying to draw a rock and realizing how hard it is to capture the edges, especially the curves and softer edges. Looking around and seeing a group of us with our field books.
This course opened up my mind to more ways to teach STEAM and to not be afraid to make connections in different ways with my students and those I work with.I appreciate how it is much more holistic approach to education than traditional STEM education. It really considers the student & the teacher for their unique cultural & social history.
Imene has a beautiful and powerful way of describing the importance of developing our lens and practice toward equity and celebration of all in our work with students. I really appreciated the metaphors she offered for this (the poem, murmurations, etc.) and will take them into my work to center and ground our community in these values.
Still have questions about this course? Get in touch with Imène Ghernati, STEAM's founder, to request more information.
contact us
