Data-Logging: An Introduction

Observation and measurement are central features of practical activity in science. Traditionally, pupils are taught to use a variety of measuring instruments, each of which requires a particular skill for obtaining readings. They record their collected readings in a table and often plot the results in the form of a graph. Now, all these measuring activities may be readily performed using a computer. This chapter begins by explaining how this is done. Further chapters consider the special features of the measurement methodology and some of the benefits to pupils.

  1. Hardware and software for computer-based measurement

  2. Special features of computer-based measurement: data-capture

  3. Special features of computer-based measurement: display and analysis

  4. Using graphs to explore and learn from data

  5. Research into the impact of the computer on laboratory work

-Author-

Laurence Rogers, School of Education
July-1996