In an increasingly digital world, virtual watch parties have emerged as a popular and accessible way for students at Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts to engage with academic content, outside of the traditional classroom setting. These virtual events, like the recent digital watch party for Tom Wessels’ Reading the Forested Landscape, offer students a unique opportunity to explore new ideas, expand their learning experience, and connect with both experts and peers in a relaxed, yet intellectually stimulating environment.
These virtual watch parties allow students to participate in lectures and discussions they might not otherwise have the chance to attend in person due to schedule conflicts, an inability to drive to an event, or other complications that would inhibit their ability to attend an in-person event. These events make specialized knowledge and expert speakers, often from different parts of the country, easily accessible.
The recent watch party at MCLA centered around renowned ecologist Tom Wessels, who guided viewers through an exploration of New England’s forests, revealing hidden stories within the landscape. Wessels, an expert in ecology as well as environmental studies, presented a method of reading the landscape like a detective, identifying clues from trees, stone walls, and other natural features to uncover the region’s environmental history. Wessels’ presentation offered his audience a new perspective on how to interpret what students might see when they are walking through the forest, making for an educational and transformative experience.
At the heart of the presentation was the idea that forests, like historical documents, hold valuable information about past events. Wessels explained that human activities, natural disasters, and wildlife patterns leave marks on the environment, shaping the forests we see today. By learning to recognize these signs, students can develop a deeper understanding of the interactions between nature and the human influence. For MCLA students, especially those studying environmental science or history, this event was both informative and practical, providing skills that can be applied in their academic work, and in everyday interactions with the natural world.
One of the greatest benefits of virtual watch parties like this is that they offer students the chance to engage with complex material from the comfort of familiar spaces, such as the LibLab (located in Freel Library, Room 102), or their own dorm rooms. This accessibility is crucial in allowing more students to participate, regardless of their schedules or personal commitments.
Additionally, the informal atmosphere encouraged open discussion, where students were able to share ideas and ask questions without the pressure associated with traditional classroom settings. Snacks and beverages provided during the watch party encouraged and enhanced the relaxed atmosphere. The event felt much more like a community gathering, rather than a formal lecture.
Beyond academic enrichment, virtual watch parties foster a sense of community on campus. For many students, these events are a chance to connect with others who share similar interests, strengthening their personal and academic relationships.
At MCLA, where a close-knit campus environment is highly valued, events like Wessels’ watch party provide a platform for students to bond over shared passions and engage in meaningful conversations outside the classroom. These connections can inspire new ideas for projects or research, helping students expand their academic horizons while building lasting friendships.
At a time when environmental awareness is more important than ever, Wessels’ Reading the Forested Landscape gave MCLA students a fresh perspective on the interconnectedness of nature, history, and human impact. His presentation emphasized that even a simple walk through the woods can offer valuable insights into how the landscape has evolved over time. This was a powerful reminder that the natural world is full of stories waiting to be discovered—stories that reveal not only the impact of human activity but also the resilience of nature itself.
