With
computer technology being a part of
everyday life, the state of New Jersey has mandated that it be a part of
education. In Roxbury High School,
teachers and students use technology to present and research information, to
practice skills and to communicate with each other.
Students
in Chemistry classes at Roxbury High School are using calculators, software and
computers to rapidly collect, analyze and present scientific data.
According to Dr. Linda Upton, Chemistry teacher at RHS, “The New Jersey
science standards emphasize thinking and analysis.
The technology our students use allows them to rapidly gather information
with sophisticated quantitative techniques.
The students appreciate the power and convenience of computers while
being freed to learn scientific concepts and relationships.”
In
one Chemistry laboratory at RHS, AP Chemistry students electronically monitor
the color change of a substance. Their
calculators collect and graph the data. Then,
using skills learned in Statistics class, they find the function that best fits
the data.
The
students have learned the meaning of various functions in math class and their
science classes have helped them to relate the color change rate to the way that
the substance decomposes.
Realizations,
such as this, help students to understand that reactions like these are why we
have refrigerators, how Breathalyzer tests work and the reason why nuclear power
is dangerous. “These are powerful
learning experiences achieved in a quick and fun manner,” states Dr. Upton.
The
computers are also used to present the data in an informative way that can be
shared. “Making informed
conclusions and forming connections to the world is a terrific way for
youngsters to learn.” states Dr. Upton.
In
one classroom two computers, two printers, software downloaded from the Internet
and a classroom set of calculators is used.
In addition to these, electronic probes such as colorimeters, pH meters,
and thermometers have been bought to interface with the calculators.
The data collection is portable and can be carried to the computer from
any place. Dr. Upton states, “In
addition to this convenience, the students seem to enjoy the process.
As one Honors Chemistry student said, “You mean, we don’t have to
graph on the graph paper?”
“The monies spent for this technology directly impact the hands and minds of Roxbury students,” comments Dr. Upton.