How can technology support environmental education.

In today’s technology-driven world, environmental education is undergoing a major transformation. Where learning about nature once relied heavily on field guides, chalkboards, and textbooks, it now increasingly incorporates smartphones, apps, and digital platforms. One of the most exciting developments in this space is the use of digital recognition tools, especially bird and plant identification apps, which are making environmental learning more engaging, interactive, and data-rich than ever before.

Apps like iNaturalist, Seek by iNaturalist, Merlin Bird ID, and PlantSnap use powerful image recognition and artificial intelligence (AI) to help users identify thousands of species of birds, plants, fungi, and insects. All a person needs to do is point their device at a living organism, snap a photo, and the app will return likely identifications, often complete with habitat information, ecological data, and even audio for bird calls.

These tools offer much more than just convenience—they are revolutionizing how young and old people interact with the environment.

Learning through discovery

Environmental education is most effective when it is hands-on and inquiry-based. Digital recognition tools support this approach by encouraging curiosity and independent exploration. For example, a science class might use the Seek (Seek by iNaturalist · iNaturalist) app during a nature walk. Participants can earn badges for observing different species, turning learning into a game. This gamification increases engagement while reinforcing observation and classification skills aligned with national science standards.

The ability to identify a plant or bird in real-time transforms the outdoors into a living classroom. Instead of passively reading about ecosystems, they actively participate in them—recording, photographing, and analyzing what they find. This fosters a stronger connection to the natural world and nurtures a mindset of stewardship and care for the environment.

Citizen Science in the Classroom

One of the most powerful features of these apps is their integration with citizen science platforms. When participants upload their observations to iNaturalist, for instance, their data becomes part of a global biodiversity record that scientists and conservationists can access. Similarly, Merlin Bird ID integrates with eBird (eBird - Discover a new world of birding...), a massive citizen science project from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology that tracks bird populations and migration patterns.

By contributing real data, they take part in genuine scientific efforts. This not only increases the relevance of what they’re learning, but also gives them a sense of purpose. Their contributions matter—not just for their grade, but for the planet.

Supporting Diverse Learning Styles and Needs

Digital tools are also a great equalizer in education. Many of these apps are free and available on both Android and iOS platforms, making them accessible to a wide range of schools and communities. For students with learning differences, these apps offer visual and auditory content that can make abstract concepts more concrete.

For example, learners who struggle with text-heavy materials can benefit from the visual recognition and audio guides in Merlin Bird ID. Those who enjoy hands-on tasks can find motivation in photographing and cataloging their local flora and fauna. The interactive format also lends itself to group work, encouraging collaboration and discussion.

Building Digital and Environmental Literacy Together

Using tech in environmental education also builds digital literacy. Students learn to evaluate sources, interpret data, and responsibly share information—skills that are increasingly important in our information-rich world. For example, students using iNaturalist might compare similar species, evaluate the likelihood of a match, or track where sightings have occurred using maps and data layers.

This blend of digital and environmental literacy is exactly what modern education strives for: preparing students not just to know about nature, but to understand it, analyze it, and advocate for it using the tools of the 21st century.

Real-World Applications and Projects

These tools/apps are great for everyone, including families, seniors, and community groups. A fun way to get involved is by joining or hosting a local BioBlitz. That’s when people of all ages come together to find and record as many plants, birds, bugs, and other species as they can in one area, using apps like iNaturalist or Seek. It’s a hands-on way to learn about nature and help scientists at the same time.

Groups from different towns—or even different countries—can team up and compare what they find. Imagine people in Canada and Kenya sharing their bird sightings and learning how climate and location shape local wildlife. It’s a great way to connect with nature and with each other.

These kinds of activities can be part of science classes, after-school programs, community events, or even senior centre outings. And the results can turn into cool projects like photo albums, blog posts, or nature journals that everyone can enjoy.

Social Media and Sharing

Social platforms can also play a role. People of all ages can document their discoveries through Instagram posts or school social media pages, using hashtags like #SeekApp, #iNaturalist, or #CitizenScience to share their work. This visibility helps spread awareness, encourages others to join in, and celebrates achievements in a public forum.

Of course, while digital tools are valuable, they should enhance—not replace—the direct experience of nature. The goal isn’t to add more screen time, but to use technology as a bridge to deeper, more meaningful outdoor learning. With the right balance, technology can transform environmental education into a more relevant, inclusive, and action-oriented experience.

Conclusion

Bird and plant recognition apps aren’t just cool tech—they’re fun and powerful tools for learning, exploring, and helping the planet. Whether you're a kid, a teen, an adult, or a senior, anyone can use apps like iNaturalist or Merlin Bird ID to discover the nature around them. By identifying plants, birds, and bugs, you’re not just learning—you’re actually helping scientists and joining a global effort to understand and protect the environment. With today’s environmental challenges, it’s more important than ever for people of all ages to get involved. These apps make that easy and enjoyable. They’re simple to use, free to download, and turn everyday walks or garden visits into exciting learning adventures for everyone.