17 AUGUST 2010

Today is the fifth day for the class PMEY3104 Integration of Technology in Primary Science Teaching. Professor Dr.Rohaida Mohd. Saat bring us to Physic laboratory. Then, she introduces to some equipment of MBL-computer-based laboratory. The microcomputer-based laboratory utilizes a computer, a data collection interface, electronic probes, and graphing software, allowing students to collect, graph, and analyse data in real-time. This real-time atmosphere allows us to and process important details in each experiment. It also includes cable and powerful Windows program for WIN 98, XP, Vista. It offers:



 Data logging


 Text display


 Pie chart display



 Chart display



 Data recorder high/low limit


 Data query



 Text report


 Chart report


Moreover, Data files can be converted to Excel files. Sampling time can be adjusted from 1 to 3,600 seconds. (More info: http://www.lessemf.com/dcgauss.html).



DATA LOGGER



The most important equipment is data logger. So, what is data logger? The following are some information about data logger:


 A data logger (also datalogger or data recorder) is an electronic device that records data over time or in relation to location either with a built in instrument or sensor or via external instruments and sensors. Increasingly, but not entirely, they are based on a digital processor (or computer).



 They generally are small, battery powered, portable, and equipped with a microprocessor, internal memory for data storage, and sensors. Some data loggers interface with a personal computer and utilize software to activate the data logger and view and analyze the collected data, while others have a local interface device (keypad, LCD) and can be used as a stand-alone device.


 Data loggers vary between general purpose types for a range of measurement applications to very specific devices for measuring in one environment or application type only.




 It is common for general purpose types to be programmable; however, many remain as static machines with only a limited number or no changeable parameters. Electronic dataloggers have replaced chart recorders in many applications.



 One of the primary benefits of using data loggers is the ability to automatically collect data on a 24-hour basis. Upon activation, data loggers are typically deployed and left unattended to measure and record information for the duration of the monitoring period.




 This allows for a comprehensive, accurate picture of the environmental conditions being monitored, such as air temperature and relative humidity.



 The cost of data loggers has been declining over the years as technology improves and costs are reduced. Simple single channel data loggers cost as little as $25. More complicated loggers may costs hundreds or thousands of dollars.






We are assigned in a group by Professor Dr.Rohaida Mohd. Saat to carry out an experiment by using a device to measure the magnetic fields (Gauss). After we have carry out the experiment we discuss about advantages and disadvantage the practicality of this device in Malaysian science classroom context.




ADVANTAGES



 The tool can be used effectively to collect, analyse and display data in the form of graphs and charts, showing relationships that change as the values of the variables change.


 Data can be stored in computer’s memory.




 Students’ ability to interpret graphs is improved.




 It saves time if the lesson is aimed to finish in a very limited time.





 It is suitable for independent learners that are very proficient in science.








DISADVANTAGES




 As data collected is transferred into graphs, the students might not be able to see the relationship between the diagram of the magnetic field and the graphs collected.




 It is not suitable for the primary school learners as they need to master the science process skills first.



 Even though, students of level 2 can grasp abstract concept, but in learning science, their scientific and manipulative skills are still developing at this time.




 The discourse used by the device is considered to be complex.


 The discourse used here is mainly in English. Primary school students have little vocabulary knowledge of the second language. So, some instructions can be considered to be too high.





CONLUSION



Primary school students should be taught the basic hands-on activity, so that they know on how real science (without technology) works. Secondary school students can be taught by integrating technology as they have the basic concept and this will be their ‘prior knowledge’ to construct new knowledge when technology is integrated.