Collecting Data in the Laboratory and Field Using Technology

Nature is constantly in flux. Small and large events occur at a rapid pace with data passing us by without being collected. In an instant organisms respond to environmental changes that are hard to interpret. However, devices have given us a means to collect the data and provide a series of points that we can interpret and use to understand what is goes on around us. Today we will explore tools that can be used to collect these fleeting data sets.

The tools available vary from school to school, so our tool choice varies. We will use Smart School Systems' Data Harvesters and DigiScopes and Pasco's data collection devices. Ipads and smartphones will be integrated or use to collect data.  Furthermore, we will look at ways to aggregate, explore, and disseminate data in scientific-oriented reports and visuals.

Collecting Student Thoughts

• Backchannels (Today's Meet - EDCI6344) or go to https://todaysmeet.com/EDCI6344
• Polleverywhere (Video) or (Website) 

Smartphones

Ways to use smartphones in the classroom. LINK and LINK

Here's some of what we may expect to capture:

• Temperature
• Heart Rate
• pH
• Light Intensity
• Light Spectrum
• Images
• Video
• Sound

Some questions to be answered today...

1. How does the ambient temperature of an environment affect the human body?
2. Does the smell of chocolate affect heart rate?
3. Does pH of water vary between various sources?
4. What flowering plants are blooming on the UT-Brownsville campus?

Binoculars and Telescopes
And yes, we are first going to spend some time using some old technology like binoculars and telescopes which I find that many people don't know how to use properly.

Visit this site about the different types of optic systems used in field work. LINK

This website provides answers to many questions asked about binoculars. LINK

Check this website to learn how to adjust and focus the binoculars. LINK

Activity LINK