Probeware in the Classroom

Jervis, Charles K. (2000). Approaches to Technology in Biology and Chemistry Classes: An Alternative Perspective. Roanoke, VA: Teaching Inquiry with the Latest Technology Annual Conference. (ERIC Document Reproduction Service No. ED 439906)

Computers are not the only “technology” in science as Jervis (2000) points out, there are many things used in hands-on labs that are considered “technology”, such as probeware, CBL’s and cameras. Probeware is a common technology implemented into classrooms because it is user friendly and can be done after minimal training using the devices. Probeware is a type of hardware that connects to a microcomputer or calculator that allows for measurement of temperature, motion, etc. Many programs can analyze data with graphs and data tables (Price, 1987). Using probes allows the students to experiment rather than just measure and record. According to Price (1987), students are able to gather more data in a single class period. They are able to manipulate data and see results instantly. The example he uses is measuring period of a pendulum. Rather than watching the pendulum and timing it for 50 swings, the students use a probe with an LED sensor that can measure the period the moment the pendulum swings past the sensor. This data is collected and recorded in the handheld device. The students can then change the mass or another variable and measure again in a short amount of time. Using probes in a science class can be advantageous. Teachers can implement it fairly easily, as long as they receive proper training and have the support they need for continued training. Students receive hands-on experience and see results more quickly than if they took measures by hand without the use of a probe or handheld device. Some problems with implementing technology such as probeware include initial cost of the equipment, collaboration between teachers, and the requirement of proper training and time to implement it effectively in the classroom. Wetzle (2001) found that many schools could only afford a class set of equipment, so the sharing of equipment between classes was difficult to implement. Most teachers eventually found it to be too cumbersome therefore causing the decline in use after a couple of years. I know we have probeware in our school, but training and use has not been made readily available. I’m sure if I were to seek it out, I could use the equipment, but it would take my own time and effort to find it, find someone to show me how to use it, and then figure out on my own how it would fit into my lessons. I would like to use probes because they seem to be a great tool that would be easy to implement and would be a great learning tool for the students. Unfortunately in honesty, the extra effort on my part that it will take to actually use them deters me from implementing this type of technology.