This class is unique with respect to my expectations, compared to the other classes that I’m taking. Generally, I take classes that I feel will make me a better version of myself, in various fields like biology, chemistry, physics, and computer science. On the other hand, I hope that after completing this course I will be able to motivate others to do the same in a non-formal setting. That is, to motivate others to become better versions of themselves by going to museums, parks, zoos, etc. This I feel may have a stronger impact than formal education alone on retention of important concepts in science, because these public places usually stimulate the senses of hearing and seeing and living and breathing the ideas that may not seem to be grounded in reality when printed in a textbook. The experience alone is worth the trip, but the educational value is a huge bonus.

I had a chance to experience this type of informal learning when I participated in the Bio-Blitz event in Central Park. Together in a group of 5 other Macaulay students, an advisor, and a Central Park employee, we explored the Ramble in search of species of Lichen, an algae/fungus sort of thing that usually grows on trees and stones. The idea of the Bio-Blitz is to document [all] the species that can be found in Central Park. The classification and identification of various species is an important part of biology, though it seems not to incorporate the Scientific Method to the same extent as other fields of study.

The Bio-Blitz benefits the citizens of New York in several ways. First, it measures the biodiversity of Central Park, and over time may yield vital hints as to the well-being of NYC’s greenspaces. It also creates a database of species currently residing in NYC, which may benefit those whose research or curiosity leads them to the Central Park Conservancy. Simply put, it adds to the body of knowledge on Central Park and the ecosystems that inhabit it.

My favorite part of the trip was exploring the Ramble, a maze-like winding of paths and trails that may easily get one lost if he doesn’t know his way around. The lichens unfortunately were not as impressive as I’d hoped they’d be. If it weren’t for Bio-Blitz, I wouldn’t recognize them as a species separate from the tree.