A lab activity for teaching physics students the fundamentals of statistical analysis during the first few weeks of instruction is described. This activity involves students timing a pulse of light generated by an Arduino device of fixed duration with individual timers (e.g. stopwatch, iPhone timer). To select the most precise timing methods and…

In a recent report, the American Association of Physics Teachers has developed an updated set of recommendations for curriculum of undergraduate physics labs. This document focuses on six major themes: constructing knowledge, modeling, designing experiments, developing technical and practical laboratory skills, analyzing and visualizing data, and…

Monohybrid crosses are taught in biology labs across the country using peas and corn. Students studying monohybrid crosses using zebrafish ("Danio rerio") would encounter a new model organism, and those interested in human or veterinary medicine would have increased interest. To this end, our college has implemented a laboratory exercise at the…

We discuss aspects of multivariate fMRI modeling, including the statistical evaluation of multivariate models and means for dimensional reduction. In a case study we analyze linear and non-linear dimensional reduction tools in the context of a "mind reading" predictive multivariate fMRI model.

Describes an experiment (using plastic bags) designed to give students practical understanding on using statistics to evaluate data and how statistical treatment of experimental results can enhance their value in solving scientific problems. Students also gain insight into the orientation and structure of polymers by examining the plastic bags.…

A new, fast and effective colorimetric analysis of the artificial sweetener aspartame is presented for application in undergraduate laboratory courses. This new method incorporates the use of a modified biuret reagent for selective detection and analysis of aspartame in aqueous solutions. The modified reagent is less caustic than the traditional…

Described are teaching methods used to teach measures of central tendency to middle and high school students. Discussed are quantitative and qualitative data, basic experimental terms, a general overview of data analysis, data charts for quantitative data, qualitative data analysis, and extensions for older students. (CW)

Highlighting the importance of precision in recording, analyzing, and interpreting data in experimental psychology courses, the author proposes that students be assigned grades of A or F for the results section of laboratory reports. Papers receiving F's could be resubmitted for reduced grades until they are free of errors. (GEA)

A three-point linkage system in tomatoes is used to explain concepts of gene mapping, linking and statistical analysis. The system is designed for teaching the effective use of statistics, and the power of genetic analysis from statistical analysis of phenotypic ratios. (Author/SA)

The use of computer spreadsheet programs in the physics laboratory is discussed. An example of this application with a conservation of energy laboratory is presented including the cases of a rolling sphere and a sliding sphere. (CW)

A Pittsburgh program to encourage physicians to choose clinical investigation careers consists of nine months of formal lectures and laboratory training and 15 months of a supervised laboratory research project. The curriculum ranges from basic laboratory techniques and biomedical content to advanced instrumentation, statistical analysis, computer…

Discussed are problems encountered when a gas absorption experiment with strong measurement error is used. Notes students either avoid the experiment or report it as defective. Provides ideas to make lab experiments more instructive. (MVL)

Classroom discussion of scientific articles can be an effective means of teaching scientific principles and methodology to both undergraduate and graduate science students. The availability of classic papers from the American Physiological Society Legacy Project has made it possible to access articles dating back to the early portions of the 20th…