Promoting Nature Connectedness through Sensor-Supported Field Investigations (SSFIs)
Leader
Marie-Léa Pouliquen, University of Rennes
This interactive mini-workshop models Sensor-Supported Field Investigations (SSFIs) in which the primary outcome is nature connectedness (NC)‚ not environmental data. We use simple, phone-based sensors (e.g., Merlin Bird ID for sound cues, Pl@ntNet for plant prompts, basic phone readings for light/temperature) only as attentional scaffolds that help learners notice what is already there. Participants will (1) head outdoors to trial reflection-first field routines using Pl@ntNet (plant ID), Merlin Bird ID (bioacoustics), Aquality (water-quality/flow observations), and Fizziq (phone-based abiotic sensing) treating sensors as attention cues rather than data endpoints; (2) come back indoors for a short reflection cycle on nature connectedness : first, a 60-second INS-style pictorial check-in; next, one place-attachment prompt (e.g., "Which spot felt most 'yours' and why?"); then a 3-4 sentence note using the template "I noticed... This made me feel... It means... Next I might..." to turn a single observation into a feeling, a meaning, and a possible action. Finally, participants will (3) co-design an implementation plan for their own classes‚ choosing a local site, clarifying roles, selecting a minimal sensor set, scripting attention routines and reflection prompts, and planning safety and simple assessment‚ explicitly aimed at promoting nature connectedness. Throughout, we model facilitation moves that keep attention on the milieu rather than the screen (screen-down pauses, listen-first). All materials are provided. No prior sensor experience required; bring a smartphone or tablet if possible.
Intended Audience
Earth/Environmental Science and Biology instructors; geoscience teacher educators; informal educators; curriculum leads who want reflection-first, perception-centered field experiences.
Goals
By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:
- Facilitate reflection-first field encounters that prioritize perception and attention over data collection.
- Use sensors as attention cues to deepen noticing, then pivot to short reflective practices (INS-style check-ins, place-attachment prompts).
- Design a 30-60 min Nature Connectedness-forward lesson with clear roles, safety/ethics, equity moves, and simple reflective artifacts


