In the modern world, a disconnect between society and our natural world is apparent. As a life science educator, one of my core focuses is to restore this connection by encouraging my students to observe this world. Every day, a child is exposed to nature as we know it in modern times regardless of the number of biotic factors present. However, the time spent in this element is usually brief, including only the transportation to and from school. During this time, students usually tune out of the world around them and tune into their devices, missing opportunities for mindful observation and recognition of the beauty in our natural world. This has a negative impact in the science classroom when students are asked to construct their own observations, a crucial step in the inquiry process. How can we improve this skill and take our students to the next level at which their observations possess accuracy, detail, and inspire questions? If we wish to avoid our students taking short glances at objects and reporting only basic facts, we must guide them through what it means to truly, deeply observe. This will mean taking time to teach the importance of using all senses and making observations of quality and quantity. Nature journaling is a perfect method of practicing this, as it forces the observer to gather otherwise overlooked information.
