Fungi and me: exploring public perceptions of fungi, and experiential approaches to challenge fungus blindness, through outreach in the UK

‘Fungus blindness’ is a persistent underappreciation of fungi’s importance and has significant implications for building regenerative futures. This study explores public perceptions of fungi in a predominantly ‘fungi-blind’ society and whether experiential engagement can challenge them. Two formats were examined: (1) a hands-on workshop, encouraging noticing fungi at macro and micro scales, and (2) an immersive audio experience giving voice to afictional fungus, prompting reflection on ecological interconnectedness. Using Personal Meaning Mapping, the mental models of 70 participants were captured pre- and post-intervention, revealing both affective and cognitive dimensions. Analysis focused on the breadth of participant understanding around ‘fungi’. Pre-intervention findings revealed narrow perceptions dominated by ‘Mushroom’, ‘Food’ and ‘Poison’, alongside limited knowledge of fungal diversity, morphology, and classification. Participants expressed minimal awareness of fungi’s ecological and biotechnological significance alongside a fascination with their strangeness. Post-intervention, ecological learning expanded across both cases, with contextual elements (e.g. ‘trees’ and ‘soil’) facilitating emerging understanding of fungi. Modest shifts towards eco-centric perspectives were also observed, demonstrating the value of experiential approaches in encouraging human-fungi and broader nature-connection. This study advocates educational reform, targeted outreach, and proposes a refined definition of fungus blindness with actionable learning aims.