Entry # 20: Final Impressions

Final Impressions of Colloquium

University Colloquium was by no means an easy course. It was a lot of hard work which involved constant reading, writing, and class participation. I think I made a mistake by choosing to take this course virtually, as I feel I would've gotten a lot more out of the experience had I taken it on campus. Regardless, I still think that I learned and grew a great deal throughout the Semester with the help of the course, which I didn't necessarily expect. I read a lot of things I wouldn't have personally chosen to read; watched videos and movies I wouldn't typically watch; engaged in a multitude of activities and discussions I wouldn't normally be involved in; and I truly enjoyed doing each of those things I wouldn't normally do during the Semester. It was a new, refreshing, and incredibly rewarding educational experience.

The course also opened my eyes and increased my awareness and involvement on a lot of issues that are going in the world today are how they are all somehow interrelated. These include climate change and global warming; overconsumption; corruption of our food industry; poverty; and the diminishing relationship with the environment/involvement with nature among newer generations. I feel as though I'm much more knowledgeable on all of issues, and I plan on carrying what I learned throughout the Semester with me for the rest of my life. I want to start living a more sustainable lifestyle. I want to decrease the size of my carbon footprint. I want to teach future generations about the importance of the environment.

Recommended Changes

As I previously stated, Colloquium was as a whole a positive experience for me. However; if I could make any recommendations I would suggest providing students more assistance and guidance in writing their papers. I found the instructions somewhat difficult and confusing, and I would have appreciated some opinions prior to the deadlines. I would also recommend providing students clearer guidelines for the journal entries and discussion forums as those too were unclear at times.

Assignments to Keep

Assignments that I feel are definitely worthy of keeping include the field trips, discussion forms, service learning requirement, and the journal. The field trips helped me connect to the environment and taught me about the mysterious Florida ecosystem. The discussion forums were great because they helped me understand the readings and concepts better. The service learning requirement is a must keep simply because I'm a firm believer that people need to be involved with their communities. In fact, my service learning experience was probably my favorite activity of the entire semester. As for the journal, it helped me improve my writing skills and provided me an opportunity to be creative.

Assignments to Discard

The only assignment that I didn't really like was the group Wiki. The concept of getting people together to work on something like this is a great idea, but as this was a virtual course, it didn't quite achieve what it should have (in my opinion). It was very stressful trying to get in touch with group members and what not, and the technology of the website was confusing as well.

Readings I liked

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My favorite reading is undoubtedly "A Land Remembered". I normally would never consider reading a book like this, but after I started reading it I honestly couldn't put it down. It was really interesting to learn to learn about the different MacIveys and to read about their struggles throughout the years. I also really liked reading all of the State of the World Chapters we were asked to read. The book was very educational and informative, yet easy to follow and comprehend.

Readings I disliked

I found some of the readings in the Colloquium Reader to be a bit dry. These include Dewey's "Traditional versus Progressive Education", and "The Need of a Theory of Experience". I understood and agreed with what the articles were saying, but these readings weren't as easy to relate to as the aforementioned ones I stated I liked.

Suggestions for Field Trips/Activities

I enjoyed all of the field trips this semester. Some places that I've been to that I would suggest for future field trips include the

• Calusa-Nature Center-Planetarium: http://www.calusanature.com
• Naples Botanical Garden: http://naplesgarden.org/
• Edison and Fort Winter Estates: http://www.efwefla.org/

Entry # 19: Sense of Place Interview

For the purpose of this entry, I was asked to interview a grandparent or someone of their generation in order to learn about their philosophy on sustainability, ecological perspective, and sense of place. I was also asked to share with them what I have been learning in this course throughout the Semester and find out their perspective on it. As my grandmother lives in Brazil and it would be difficult to have this discussion over the telephone, I spoke to my 85 year old neighbor of 12 years, Evelyn Swan. The conversation with Ms. Swan went as follows:

Sustainability

(http://crmworks.files.wordpress.com/2008/12/sustainability11.jpg)

"I know that sustainability is of growing concern to people today. When I was a child, things like global warming weren't a problem. Well, I mean, they were an underlying problem, but we didn't know about them yet. I guess that could be because not a lot of scientific data was around when I was growing up, or maybe pollution and overconsumption just hadn't taken their toll on the environment yet. Today, I recognize the concept of sustainability, and I agree with the idea that people need to become less dependent on resources that we're eventually going to run out of".

Ecological Perspective

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"You could say that I have somewhat of a close relationship with the environment, though I do have a lot of respect for the land and I think we should treat it with common courtesy before the damage caused by our consumption habits is irreversible. It's sad now a days, it seems as though I'm spending more time playing bridge with the girls, or going up to the Club House for parties than I do outside. There aren't a lot of natural wonders right in my backyard like there used to be that's for sure. Definitely not spending as much time outside as when I was growing up and I was always running around in the woods. Though I still really like sitting on my doc to watch the sun set, and I spend time outside when I play golf."

Sense of Place

(http://www.springfieldculturalcouncil.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/sense-of-place.jpg)

"Where I feel most at home? Can it be at any time in my life? Ok, my sense of place is definitely going to have to be my house in North Carolina when I was growing up. Our house was the only house for miles, and there were a lot of woods for us kids to play in! My dad built us a tire swing off a tree in the backyard and I used to spend so much time there with my sister. Right up the road there was a little creek. When my dad found the patience, he used to take all the girls fishing. I think I also felt a sense of place in that house because of the way it smelled, and the way mom was always baking something delicious. I love remembering my childhood and how great it was growing up in that big old house with my family who I miss so much today".

Perspective of the University Colloquium

(http://www.cs.mcgill.ca/~joerg/colloquium/colloquium.jpg)

"I think it's great that they're teaching students what they need to know. Since climate change is a real problem, it's best that we educate ourselves on it. The field trips you said you went on sound really fun. It's great because I think it gets students more involved with the environment. Too bad more schools don't adopt this program. It would be a good start to cleaning up the country".

Upon conversing with Ms. Swan, it can be concluded that our childhoods were somewhat the same, but actually quite different. We both experienced watching the world change, and different generations evolve. I also spent a great deal of time outdoors when I was growing up in Brazil. My parents owned a citrus farm and we used to spend every weekend either there, or at my grandmother's cattle farm, until we moved to the United States. Even when our family moved here though, I remember always being at the beach, and my parents took us to all of the different Everglades parks and preserves. Her upbringing differed from mine though as nature was much more available. If my parents hadn't owned a farm, I don't think I would have spent much time outdoors, as we lived in a very large and somewhat dangerous city; Sao Paulo. Nature is seldom nearby in a metropolitan city that swims in concrete like Sao Paulo.

Entry # 18: Reflection on Sustainability

The final topic I would like to reflect upon in my journal is sustainability. Sustainability was one of the central concepts covered throughout the semester in my Colloquium course. My knowledge and awareness on sustainability expanded greatly this Semester with all of the various activities we engaged in.

(http://www.euromoodle.org/ash/file.php/131/The_three_spheres_of_sustainability.png)

To exemplify what I meant by saying that this course has made me more aware of sustainability-I will refer to my large wardrobe. I had never previously considered having a large wardrobe to be harmful to the environment, or I suppose you could say, an example of something that I do that is "unsustainable". I'd always referred to things such as pollution when thinking of something that may be "unsustainable". This course has opened my eyes and helped me realize what went into the production of all of the clothes in my closet-and when I actually take into consideration all of the natural resources, fossil fuels, and labor that went into the creation of each one of my dresses, yes I will have to admit, that I think my large wardrobe is undoubtedly an example of me living unsustainably. It is unnecessary as such, and it shows that I'm consuming more than I actually need.

(http://reproductivejusticeclimatejusticepeace.files.wordpress.com/2008/04/consumption.jpg)

So what does sustainability mean to me now? Obviously it has much more meaning to my life than it had before, as I was, I suppose, unexposed to all of the various aspects of the concept. In this week's lesson, we were asked to read a list of definitions for sustainability provided by Carol Newcomb Jones, and there was one which I quite liked-"Sustainability means using, developing, and protecting resources at a rate in a manner that enables to meet their current needs and also provides that future generations can meet their own needs". This definition shows that sustainability is something that people need to work towards achieving, it suggests using only what we need and developing new technologies to minimize the damage in the production of only that of which we need. To me, sustainability means not over indulging. It means changing the way that I consume on a regular basis. It means...changing my daily habits, and recycling, reusing, turning off lights, buying environmentally friendly products, etc.

(http://sorinplaton.files.wordpress.com/2008/03/sustanaible-1.jpg)

The following link will lead you to an older video that addresses sustainable growth. It offers several suggestions that some companies today are beginning to adapt:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dghuWWw7fnw&feature=related

Entry # 17: Environment in The News

I recently read a news article that I felt was very relatable to many concepts covered in my Colloquium course this Semester. The article, titled "Obama Clears Way for Oil Drilling off Eastern Gulf Coast", which I found in the Naples Daily News Website (http://www.naplesnews.com/news/2010/mar/31/obama-clears-way-oil-drilling-eastern-gulf-coast/), touched base on a multitude of different subjects that were addressed in assigned reading materials and classroom discussion forums.

This article announces, as the title suggests, Obama's new, and very controversial, policy that includes placing additional oil and natural gas platforms in waters along the Southern Atlantic coastline, the Eastern Gulf of Mexico, and Part of Alaska. President Obama claims that his decision is part of a broader strategy that also includes expanding the production of nuclear power and clean energy sources to "move us from an economy that runs on fossil fuels and foreign oil to one that relies more on homegrown fuels and clean energy" in attempt to strengthen the economy in the short run and long run.

(http://www.postonpolitics.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/oil-rig-offshore-drilling.jpeg)

I can't admit that I'm too thrilled with the President's modification to this ban. Though I feel that it is important to focus on strengthening our economy, and bringing jobs and money into this country, I don't believe that it should come at the risk of disrupting a natural ecosystem. I mean, aren't there other ways to strengthen an economy aside from tampering with off-shore oil drilling? There is an abundance of marine life beneath the surface that needs to be considered. Because oil is such a powerful substance; and powerful substances mean money; and money means power; and people want to have power power- they are constantly prioritizing based on the need and desire for this power. This action by our President is just another prime example of how we are a society that relies far too heavily on material things or products for happiness. Consumption can be considered the blood in our veins; which is something that is going to have to change, and soon, if we wish to have a planet to live on.

(http://www.heatingoil.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/florida-offshore-oil.jpg)

I also think that Obama's attempt to pair his remarks on the new policy with other energy proposals were an attempt to hide his true intentions. Sure, it's great that 5,000 hybrid vehicles were ordered for government fleet, but that doesn't make up for the fact that you are tampering with the natural environment, which in my opinion, is something that never truly provides long term benefits. Not to mention that off-shore oil drilling is not aesthetically pleasing for local residents and beach visitors. The government needs to find other ways for strengthening the economy, and the president needs to set a good example for the people of his country so that we can all learn to live more sustainable lifestyles.

(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk279/ProgressFlorida/2-13-10PNJHandsAcrosstheSandeditori.jpg)

Ultimately, I don't think that this was a smart decision on the President's behalf for the sake of the aquatic wildlife swimming beneath the ocean's waves. Supporting my speculation, the following link will direct you to a website that lists oil spills and disasters that have occurred throughout the world:

http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0001451.html

Entry # 16: Field Trip # 5-Southwest Florida Museum of History

On Friday, March 19^th I completed Field Trip # 5 to Southwest Florida Museum of History, as well as an exploration of historic downtown Fort Myers.

My visit to downtown Fort Myers and to the Southwest Florida Museum of History was by far the most educational field trip that I’ve embarked on this Semester. I honestly had never realized how rich in history the area is, considering how I thought it was relatively new as such. I was quite shocked to learn that people have been living here for over 14,000 years. I had no idea the number was that high, but I obviously wasn’t taking all of the Native Americans who have been here for ages into much consideration. This visit was very enlightening on my knowledge of the Calusa and Seminole Indians; Florida cattle farming; as well as the geographic, social, and economic changes that occurred in the area throughout time. I was really amused to learn how much the area had in fact changed, from what I learned was previously the entertainment Mecca of Fort Myers, to what it is today.

My favorite part of the field trip, and what impacted me the most from the experience, was undoubtedly the Museum. The museum contained a bunch of neat little historic artifacts that I was so interested to learn about. It was what made me realize how much history exists in my very own backyard! As for my favorite part of the Museum, I would have to say it was the entire fishing section. I was intrigued by how abundant fish once were here, and how what fishermen did in the past affected the future of Florida fisheries, and how all of the different sustainability laws were passed. I was also fascinated by the seashell collection of the museum-they were all so beautiful!

Photographs from the Museum are illustrated below:

Some of Florida's prehistoric creatures...

Sea Level Changes Over Time

Preserving Florida Fisheries in the Future

Seashells

Florida Scrub Cattle

Historic Downtown Fort Myers

In order to encourage more community engagement in the urban area, I would re-design it by providing high-density housing, ranging in affordability levels so that people of different incomes all have the opportunity to live in the area, eliminating/reducing segregation. I would also redesign the area to be more suitable for pedestrians, which would entail building a more walk able retail district, with a multitude of cultural facilities near by.

Overall, my impressions of the downtown area and the museum are that the area has undergone a lot of changes since its first inhabitants were alive 14,000 years ago. I enjoyed the overall learning experience very much so—which ranged from learning about Florida’s prehistory and its earliest inhabitants; the changes to the city and river; the economic and social changes; to the cattle farming and fishing.

Entry # 15: Energy Usage for 24 Hours

This week's lesson for the course was focused on energy consumption. As such, I was asked to perform a series of activities to assist me in attempt to make a reasonable reflection of my energy and fuel consumption habits. Activities included a.) recording every time that I used electricity, b.) recording the meter reading of my electric meter, c.) recording the company's name and stating how the company generates energy, d.) recording my total gas mileage for the day, e.) determining the annual gas mileage of my vehicle, f.) determining the total carbon output of my vehicle, and g.) reflecting upon the results of my findings.

a.) Electricity Usage

(http://grtu.net/data/images/Article_images/electricity22.jpg)

• Air-Conditioning: 24 Hours
• Hot Water Heater: 40 Minutes (8:00 am and 7:00 pm)
• Dishwasher: 90 minutes (8:30 am)
• Blowdryer: 20 minutes ( 8: 35 am)
• Hair Straightener: 10 minutes (8:55 am)
• Washing Machine: 120 Minutes (9:00 am and another load at 10:45 am)
• Dryer: 180 Minutes (10:00 am and again at 12:00 pm)
• Toaster: 5 minutes (9:20 am)
• Coffee Machine: 15 minutes (9: 15 am)
• Toaster: 5 minutes (9:20 am)
• Computer Laptop on and Charging: 24 hours
• Cell Phone Charger: 5 hours (7:30 pm)
• Oven: 20 Minutes (7:45 pm)
• Microwave: 10 Minutes (7:50 pm and 8:10 pm)

b.) Meter Reading: 97 KW.

(http://www.energy.sa.gov.au/__data/assets/image/0016/20392/Meter-Reading-Image1.gif)

c.) Company Name: Florida Power and Light (FPL)

"In 2007, FPL had more than 25,000 megawatts of resources to serve customers and a diverse fuel mix to help ensure reliable service and moderate prices. Our current mix of energy sources is 52 percent natural gas, 19 percent nuclear, 15 percent purchased power, 8 percent oil and 6 percent coal"

(http://www.fpl.com/environment/plant/power_plant_projects.shtml)

d.) Total mileage for the day: 45 miles round trip to attend classes at FGCU, with zero people in the car with me.

e.) Annual gas mileage of my vehicle: 9,833 miles per year.

(http://red-deer.aderk.ca/pictures/2004-VW-Jetta-for-Sale1-red-deer-mnqv4.jpg)

f.) Total carbon output of my vehicle:

(http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/2008car1tablef.jsp?si=true)

g.) Reflection: Do I make sustainable choices? Do I try to conserve energy and fuel as much as possible? The answer to these questions as I like to believe, are yes. Yes, I honestly think that I do make sustainable choices. I say this because, for one, I chose to purchase a vehicle that isn't considered a gas guzzler--and I keep my driving to a minimum. Although as I live in a very spread out area and it's difficult to walk or bike anywhere, I still don't drive very often at all. I go to places where I must throughout the week (which includes school, grocery stores, etc.), and carpool with family or friends during weekend outings. I also turn off lights whenever I leave rooms, only do about 2 loads of laundry per week, and if I lived alone, I would never use air-conditioning because I simply hate being cold! Overall, I find that most of my daily consumption habits are fairly sustainable in comparison to a lot of other people's habits. Sure, I'm aware that I'm not the most sustainable human being on the planet as such, but I understand that there is room for improvement and am willing to adapt sustainable methods into my daily routines.

Entry # 14: Field Trip # 4 Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary

Today I completed my field trip to the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, which I used to frequently visit with my parents while I was growing up. The Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary was established in order to protect the largest remaining area of ancient bald cyprus in North America from being leveled for their timber in the 1940's and 1950's. The actual boardwalk itself, which was built conforming to sustainability-out of a hardwood that requires no chemical treatment, was constructed in 1954. The natural system of this sanctuary is managed to maintain the native plants and animal species who reside in this habitat, as well as to preserve the natural processes of said environment.

Moreover, what I most enjoyed about my experience at the Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary was the sense of serenity I felt while I was walking throughout the boardwalk. It truly is such a beautiful place. I, of course, enjoyed many other aspects of the experience as well-learning about the different species I was able to see in all of the different habitats I passed through was really interesting. Boardwalk habitats included: Pine Flatwoods, Wet Prairie, Pond Cypress, Bald Cypress, and Lettuce Lake.

Out of all the habitats, I think I prefer the Lettuce Lake, which is displayed below:

I was also fortunate enough to see several animal species during my stroll:

Short-Tailed Hawk

Anhinga

Blue Heron

Overall, I found my visit to Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary to be a rewarding experience. I enjoyed being outdoors, seeing all of the different plant species throughout the various habitats I was introduced to, and thought it was really cool that I actually ended up sighting some wildlife-I was not expecting it! This is a great pla, and I wish there were more places like it in Southwest Florida. The people were friendly and informative, the boardwalk and visitor's facility were both very well maintained-the only thing I can complain about is the weather! It was freezing, but I plan on returning on a sunny warm day in the future.