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There are superb tools available using calculators and probes that enable authentic math and science activities in elementary, middle and high school. These tools cost far less than desktop computers. For example, dip the temperature probe in a stream at different times of day and use the data to create a graph from which to discuss the changes.

Handheld computers can also have the same probes (sensors) attached that collect data, and then the PDA (handheld computer) in turn connects to a desktop Mac or Windows computer system and uploads the data for further analysis and exploration.

Watch this third grade instructor (Celeste Oprean) and students as they actively use these probes with PDAs instead of calculators:

• Online videoclip: slow speed networks - Third Graders, PDAs and Probes (10 MB file)
• Online videoclip: high speed networks - Third Graders, PDAs and Probes (27 MB file)

• Handheld Calculators and sensors: CBL curriculum and on this page, note the teacher discussion groups linked towards the bottom of the page. CBL (Calculator Based Laboratories) use calculators and probes (sensors) marketed by Texas Instruments and by calculators and probes (sensors) marketed by Vernier.
• pH and Oxygen Probes


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• Flow Rate Sensor


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• Flow Rate Sensor assembled

 
• PhysLab is a teacher developed integration of this CBL technology at the High School level.
• The Globe Project uses CBL equipment to carry out part of its data collection. Fairview School and others in Western North Carolina participate in this project. The GLOBE Program is a hands-on science and education program that unites students, teachers, and scientists from around the world in study and research about the dynamics of the Earth's environment. Hundreds of thousands of GLOBE students in over 8000 schools in more than 85 countries are taking important environmental measurements and reporting their data for use by scientists.  The GLOBE Program is implemented through a worldwide network of primary and secondary schools. GLOBE students:

 
• take environmental measurements at or near their schools,
• report their data through the Internet to the GLOBE data archive,
• create maps and graphs to analyze GLOBE data sets, and
• collaborate with scientists and other GLOBE students around the world.

 

For reasons of cost, motivation and instructional effectiveness, the use of sensors and probes is an important next advancement in school practice.