Elementary science datalogger probeware technology is one of the most significant technological advances for the elementary science classroom. These devices are easy to use and add the benefit of real time graphical representations of data for students. These systems allow a direct interface between the computer and sensors. The sensor data is translated into easy to assimilate graphic representations by the software.
These devices allow students to collect, store and graphically display data in a fashion that allows for instant visual recognition as well as integration into spreadsheets and presentations.
It is no longer necessary to rely on hypotheses or vague, inconclusive visual indicators to collect experimental data. Collating data is, of course, also made easy by the software’s graphic output. These devices range in size and functionality from simple single input USB devices to complete stations capable of collecting information for 10 or more inputs.
These devices accept sensors capable of collecting and processing data from a wide variety of sources in areas such as chemistry, physics, environmental science and biology. Data sources such as motion, force, sound, light intensity, voltage, temperature, ph and gas levels are only a few of those that are read and processed by these units and give an idea of their functionality.
One of the basic models that allow a great deal of affordable flexibility is the SmartSense One Link. This device is a USB enabled, single sensor input interface that draws power from the host USB port. This makes the unit extremely easy to use in both indoor and field applications and portable enough to slip into any laptop case.
The One Link ships standard with a temperature sensor but is compatible with over 40 different sensor types which further enhances its functionality. The device is capable of all general purpose scientific data logging and single photogate timing and includes the standard SmartSense software license.
The One Link is one of the smallest educational datalogger interface units available and would be ideal for stand alone, single input applications in environments where portability, self contained power and ease of use were priorities. Notwithstanding its diminutive size, the One Link’s fast log times and wide sensor compatibility make it a valuable addition to any data collection arsenal.
When paired with probeware applications these dataloggers have immense value for students. They allow for real-time display of data as it is gathered and in inquiry-based learning streams this can drastically speed up the learning process. This graphic, hot-off-the-press data display is definitely the datalogger and probeware’s strongest suite and the area where elementary science in general gains the most benefit.
This “visible Thinking” characteristic of datalogger and probeware data collection allows for previously cold and theoretical concepts that were previously difficult to grasp to be displayed in a manner that allows for easy and intuitive understanding and will hopefully continue to define the boundaries of scientific education.