Print PageObservational methods in ecology are gaining acceptance as a useful approach to addressing the scale and ubiquity of pressing environmental challenges. However, the discussion of observational methods does not include recognition of differing degrees of observational skill.
Research in visual science shows improvements in performance on a variety of visual tasks as a function of practice. These practice effects are consistent with the fact and rapidity of neuro-plastic changes in visual system structure. Here I suggest that practice effects and neural plasticity are also consistent with the practice and perceptual skill of natural historians. The question is if those skills are well suited to meet the needs articulated by observational ecologists: Does the capacity to orient quickly, sustain one’s attention, and identify patterns efficiently translate into large scale pattern perception and the detection of thresholds as ecosystems shift? Consistent with observational methods, this study integrates interviews of natural historians with empirical studies in visual science and neuroscience.
Results/Conclusions
The capacity to perceive widespread changes in biodiversity requires pattern recognition across multiple spatial and temporal scales. From a visual science point of view, this capacity is primarily dependent upon heightened contrast sensitivity. Like numerous other sensory and perceptual skills, contrast sensitivity is enhanced with transient attention. Furthermore, practice effects are most pronounced under conditions in which attention is explicitly brought to bear on the performance task. These findings suggest that natural history practice—the “practice of intentional, focused attentiveness to the more-than-human world”—quintessentially improves pattern perception and, by extension, threshold detection and visual memory. Interviews with natural historians show that their visual skills are consistently noted as exceptional.
The detection of threshold changes in complex ecosystems is commonly portrayed as difficult to perceive. However, basic observational practices can enhance contrast and thus readily reveal anomalies—the invasive plant, for example—further revealing a reduction in species richness and a corresponding loss in ecosystem functions and values. Even simplified natural history can provide useful data for the perception of regional and global ecosystem change. And according to interviewees, the practice of natural history not only enhances general awareness but also a sense of place and belonging. The revival of natural history could provide relevant data and perhaps equally important, it engenders greater environmental awareness and a corresponding sense of belonging. In an age of anxiety, this is critical for collective well being.
