What are Sensors?

Sensor Equipment - the basics

If used appropriately, sensor technology has great potential value for education and can be used to improve teaching and learning in science across a wide range of age and ability. There are a wide range of sensors available including heart rate, electrical voltage, gas, light, sound, temperature and distance sensors which are connected to a data logging device or directly to a computer.

Data is collected via the sensors and then transmitted to the computer. The computer uses software to collect, display and store the experiment data. The computer software can then display this data in different formats - such as graphs, tables or meter readings, which make it easy for students to understand the process and bring science to life.

Sensors In Action

To get an idea of how sensors can be used in junior science, please take a look at the following short videos. These videos demonstrate how sensors can provide real life data which can easily be collected and analysed in the classroom.

Clip #1

Matching the Graph

  • Using a Motion Sensor to study distance rate and time relationships.

Clip #1

Using a Conductivity Probe

  • Using a pH Probe while titrating an acid and a base.

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Spinach Leaves Reaction to Light

  • Using an oxygen probe to measure photosynthesis in spinach leaves.

Clip #1

Bouncing Ball Investigation

  • Using a Motion Sensor to measure the height and rate of a ball bouncing.

Sensor Equipment Providers

There are a range of sensors and data logging equipment available for use in schools. Discover Sensors has established a partnership with the three platforms currently in use in Irish post primary schools ie. Data Harvest, Pasco and Vernier. Please consult the websites below for access to their comprehensive professional development and support resources or to order equipment from their Irish suppliers.

Data Harvest

Data Harvest Website

Data Harvest Support

EasySense Software

To order Data Harvest online go to http://www.scichem.com

Pasco

Pasco Website

Pasco Support

Pasco Professional Development

To order Pasco online go to www.labsupplies.ie

Vernier

Vernier Website

Vernier Support

Vernier Professional Development

To order Vernier online go to www.science4schools.ie