Learning Activities

Learning by doing

Move along a route–this can be either one you don’t usually take, or one that you do. The point of this exercise is observational, so without specifying a destination, just move and immerse yourself in the environment. Begin and let yourself acclimate to the surroundings. Start taking notes after a few minutes.

You will need: some note-taking devices, photo-taking device, and potentially a partner.

During your walk take notice of :

1. Movement and Order: Observe how paths, signs, landscaping, and other features influence your movement. Do they encourage or discourage you to follow them? Reflect on how your movement subverts or adheres to the imposed order of the landscape. Are you guided or restricted? Consider what values these elements project or reflect.
2. Other relational aspects: who else uses the space? Notice how your movement is shaped by others around you. How do you interact or negotiate space with them? Note any social interactions or adjustments you make
3. Rhythm and Time: Determine the prevailing rhythm of the space. Note the general activity levels in the space. Is it bustling with people, vehicles, or natural movements (like wind or water)? Is it more serene and quiet? Observe if there are any specific times when the activity level changes, such as end of class time or lunch break. Pay attention to the soundscape. What are the dominant sounds, and how do they contribute to the rhythm? Look at the movement patterns visually. Are people moving quickly or leisurely? Are there any repetitive actions or movements? Now reflect on how you establish your own rhythm within this environment. Reflect on how you fit into or contrast with the prevailing rhythm. Are you moving at the same pace as the environment, or do you find yourself moving differently? Consider how you interact with the environment. Do you stop frequently, take detours, or follow a direct path? How do these actions shape your rhythm? Your emotional and physical state can also influence your rhythm. Are you feeling relaxed, stressed, tired, or energetic? Think about any strategies you used to adapt to or resist the prevailing rhythm. Did you find yourself speeding up to match others, or did you intentionally slow down?

Now, reimagine the space. At different points along your walk, imagine what could be there instead of what is currently present. Start by describing the current state of the space. What is present? How is it used? Then imagine different scenarios–what was there, what could be there, what will be there? Reflect on the historical and future potential of the space. What changes or developments could transform this environment?

walking with partners. José Sanchez, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons. Image’s Source.

Other activities: 

Try walking with your eyes closed. Notice how your other senses compensate. Reflect on how this changes your perception of the space. What do you notice when your vision is taken away?

Try walking barefoot. Notice the textures and sensation under your feet. How does being barefoot–as a different ‘method’ of walking–change your interpretations? As Ingold prompts, can you think of any analogous metaphorical shifts of ‘being barefoot’ in other methods?

Take photos as you feel compelled. Later, looking at them together, reflect on the themes they represent. Do they capture the essence of your walk, how?

Reflection and Discussion

After your walk, find a quiet place to sit and reflect on your experience. Consider how walking as a method influenced your observations and understanding of the space. Write down your thoughts and insights.

If you are doing this activity as part of a class or group, come together to share your experiences. Discuss the different observations made and how the act of walking shaped your perceptions of the environment.