Using Digital Tools in the Field

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Active Learning | Infusion Level

Subject: Math

Video Transcription

[Teacher voiceover]

We brought a group of seventh grade students out here to the Richland fish hatchery. We designed a water quality station, soil sampling stations, and the use of GPS animal tracking and photo essay.

We introduced students to an environment and then they were able to choose the appropriate tool that they needed in order to capture that data. They were using some of our digital probes in order to measure the pH of the soil, particularly with the water quality.

We used a lot of our math skills dealing with measuring, estimating, and understanding the different measurement, such as milligrams per liter or a pH scale. So the students had to understand those different specifics for math. They were measuring back and forth and knowing the positives and negatives of that. They were looking at comparing and contrasting some of those differences that we find in different types of soils. So there was a range of data that they were able to collect. They were putting that information together so that it made sense to them.

Video Transcription

[Teacher voiceover]

We brought a group of seventh grade students out here to the Richland fish hatchery. We designed a water quality station, soil sampling stations, and the use of GPS animal tracking and photo essay.

We introduced students to an environment and then they were able to choose the appropriate tool that they needed in order to capture that data. They were using some of our digital probes in order to measure the pH of the soil, particularly with the water quality.

We used a lot of our math skills dealing with measuring, estimating, and understanding the different measurement, such as milligrams per liter or a pH scale. So the students had to understand those different specifics for math. They were measuring back and forth and knowing the positives and negatives of that. They were looking at comparing and contrasting some of those differences that we find in different types of soils. So there was a range of data that they were able to collect. They were putting that information together so that it made sense to them.

Objectives

  • Students will record measurements of real world data.
  • Students will use data to evaluate environmental conditions.
  • Students will complete standard calculations and conversions using collected data.

Procedure

  • Prior to this lesson, students learn about the pH scale and several other common systems used to evaluate water and soil quality. During this experience, students choose appropriate technology tools to measure different environmental factors.
  • Students use digital probes to measure water quality.
  • Students use digital probes to measure pH of soil samples.
  • Students use compile and analyze data.
  • Students compare their data to established scales.
  • Students make recommendations based on the data collected.

Technology Present

  • Digital probes
  • Mobile computers

Grade Level: 6-8

Note: The TIM is about teaching, not technology. The placement of a lesson on the TIM is based entirely on the teaching practices demonstrated in the lesson and not on the specific technology employed. Effective pedagogy is our concern, not whether the tech involved is the latest, greatest, or most expensive. In fact, most of the sample videos were recorded some time ago as part of the original development of the Technology Integration Matrix. As you view these videos, focus on the teaching practices. When using the TIM-O to observe a lesson, remember that you can display the detailed indicators by clicking the tab on the right if you are completing a Matrix-based observation or are reviewing the TIM profile of a question-based lesson. The TIM Tools Admin Guide contains additional suggestions for observing a lesson and developing a TIM profile.

Video Reference Number: 1054

Active Learning
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Collaborative Learning
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Goal-Directed Learning
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