I. Goals
II. A lab environment
III. Measurement in the sciences
IV. Linear measurement exercise
V. Temperature measurement exercise
VI. Implications

Goals of this workshop
After attending this workshop, participants will be able to:

• define a lab environment and delineate its benefits to the student;
• appreciate and understand the role of the teacher as facilitator in a student-centered lab environment;
• appreciate measurement as a technique in science;
• discuss everyday applications of science measurements;
• discover measurement without traditional "tools";
• understand the importance of estimation and calibration;
• appreciate the need for students to decide how to record, respresent and report data and conclusions; and
• apply these concepts to a lab environment within their classrooms.

Materials

Required: string, ribbon, popsicle sticks, graph paper, rulers
Optional: computer, digital temperature probe system; e.g., Onset Computer Corp. Hobo

Procedure

• Begin with a conceptual discussion of constructivist learning and how to create open-ended, inquiry-based MST learning opportunities in a cooperative, collaborative environment using everyday materials.
• Discuss how how science is done in a lab and the value of replicating a lab environment in the classroom.
• Participants begin to experience these concepts. In groups of two, participants first measured tabletops with their choice of materials made available to them: string, ribbon, popsicle sticks.
• Groups report results.
• Compile, graph and analyze aggregate workshop data .
• Discuss how to standardize on units of measure, the value of estimation and the need for calibration.
• For a second experiment, ask participants to design a temperature experiment within the workshop room.
• Brainstorm to develop definitions, and goals/objectives of experiment.
• Participants place cups of cold water with thermometers inserted in their choice of location within the room
• Record initial readings.
• Ask the groups to predict in which cup the water temperature will be most affected after a period of 20 minutes. Record predictions.
• Repeat this strategy for a second set of thermometers measuring room temperature.
• Participants collect, record, report, graph and analyze data.
• Demonstrate a digital temperature sensor/computer system. (optional)
• Discuss the relevance of such activities to the Regents curricula and exams. Also discuss the learning standards.
• Brainstorm for additional classroom applications of techniques demonstrated.