May 12 2010
Three science teachers were awarded science equipment by Vernier Software & Technology on the occasion of National Lab Day. The National Lab Day, a nationwide initiative initiated by the Obama administration, aims to match engineers, scientists, businesses, university students, volunteers and STEM members and professionals of the community for bringing a more creative science experience to classrooms.
The company had planned to make its contribution to the projects posted by teachers who required Vernier technology via the website of the National Lab Day, www.nationallabday.org.
Benton, Kentucky based teacher Lisa Devellez required the technology from Vernier for her students for preparing them to compete in an event known as the ‘Technical Problem Solving’ at the Kentucky based state and regional Science Olympiad held on April 24 of 2010. Devellez received numerous sensors and a LabQuest data gathering interface from Vernier including a Stainless Steel Temperature Probe, pH sensor, Motion Detector and a Gas Pressure Sensor. This project aimed to test the data gathering and analysis skills of students.
Avondale, Arizona based teacher Debra Phillips’ students were required to conduct experiments in the manner in which a cars’ shapes affect their speeds. On completion of the car models students will test their speeds on an inclined plane and analyze the fastest car. Ms. Phillips was provided with a Vernier LabQuest along with a Motion Detector for helping with the project. A Stainless Steel Temperature Probe and a Middle School Science with Vernier lab book copy was also donated to the class and Ms. Phillips by Vernier.
Maria Brown from West Sayville in New York was the third recipient. Her students are analyzing the variance in the American Oyster’s
growth in the region of Great South Bay. Her students will use two Vernier LabQuest interfaces for using their Vernier sensors and probes in the field for this project.
Robyn Johnson, a former science teacher and a Partner at Vernier informed that support for this nationwide initiative would enable more students to access quality science instructions using the latest gadgets for inquiry and analysis.