Applications of Probeware for Biology

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Introduction

Biology, as it has been presented to students in the past is traditionally more of a qualitative science than a quantitative science.  Experiments involving the collection of data were difficult because of the specialized equipment required, or because of the long intervals of time needed to observe changes to living systems.  CoachLab probeware makes these problems go away and makes experiments possible that could not have been attempted ten years ago.  On this page you will find information about using CoachLab software and hardware (as well as TI-CBL) in Biology

Benefits of Coach Probeware for Biology Teachers

• Coach can record data for long periods of time (many days) thus allowing you to record and control biological experiments that monitor processes that take a long time.
• Coach can control outputs and equipment thus allowing you to control and manipulate a variable in an experiment.
• Coach has tools that let you integrate mathematics into your biology lessons.
• Coach's predict feature puts the hypothesis back into your science lessons and labs.
• Graphical Modeling allows you to use Coach to teach concepts such as the effects of disease or predation on population growth.
• Coach's titration apparatus makes titrations quick, safe, and effective every time. 
• Coach's authoring feature allows you to create your own activities or modify existing ones to suit your needs, your text book, or your other lab equipment.
• Coach probeware, along with appropriate sensors replaces a large amount of expensive equipment in your science lab.
• Coach is portable (with ULAB, TI-CBL, or Vernier LabPro)

Activity Ideas for Biology

• Change in pH as an indicator of microbial action
• CO₂ or O₂ produced or consumed by an organism
• Effect of light wavelength on photosynthesis
• Soil moisture and its effect on transpiration
• Exploring models of population growth in a species
• Changes in temperature produced by microbial action
• Control the environment inside an aquarium or terrarium
• Integrate math concepts and practice in your biology lab
• Observe the effects of exercise on EKG
• Sample dissolved oxygen in a pond or stream

Table of Contents Probeware for Biology

• Introduction

• Benefits of Coach Probeware for Biology Educators

• Activity Ideas for Biology

• Recommended Hardware and Software for Biology Educators

• List of Biology Activities already on the Coach CD-ROM

• More Information and Activity Ideas coming soon!

Recommended Hardware and Software for Biology Educators

ULAB (Universal Lab Interface) ULAB is a 100% portable data logger designed to fit the needs of a Biology or Ecology instructor.  ULAB is rugged and very easy to use.  ULAB can display data as graphs, values, or tables and in real time.  ULAB can record multiple data sets while in the field.  ULAB does not require a computer or calculator in order to use, but is 100% compatible with Coach software for data analysis and manipulation back in the classroom.  ULAB uses built in rechargeable batteries. With four BT style analog inputs for Vernier, TI, and CMA brand sensors, two digital inputs for other types of sensors, and eight analog outputs for controlling external devices  the ULAB portable data logger is ideal for the Biology and Ecology classes at all grade levels.  ULAB can measure and record pH, Temperature, Dissolved Oxygen, Dissolved Ions, Carbon Dioxide, Oxygen Gas, Turbidity, Humidity, Pressure, EKG, Respiration Rate, Micro Voltages, and more. Click Here to see full specifications on this product.
Coach 5 Author Software (for data analysis and modeling) With the ability to record and analyze data, create graphical and text concept models of equations, and interface with ULAB, CoachLab, TI-CBL, TI-CBL2, and Vernier LabPro Coach 5 Author Software is the perfect choice for Biology education.  Lessons can be presented with on screen instructions, images, and even video clips. Students can learn concepts of Biology while reinforcing math concepts and skills. Click Here to learn more about Coach Author Software.

Note: If you teach life science at Elementary or Middle School Level you may wish to choose Coach Junior software instead of Coach 5 Author Software.

Note: If you already own or use TI-CBL, TI-CBL2, or Vernier LabPro then you can use Coach Author software and/or Coach for CBL software to interface those products to a PC, perform data analysis, and extend those products capabilities.  To learn more about software for TI-CBL and related products click here.

Note: If you have computers in your biology lab, and you do not require portability then you may wish to choose the CoachLab II Interface Panel.  Click here to learn more about the CoachLab II.

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List of Biology Activities already on the Coach CD-ROM

The Coach software environment is designed to present lessons in a multimedia format that can contain instructions, images, and video clips.  In addition, tools and settings for handling sensors, a programming environment including basic commands and functions, and other tools can be set up to provide unique activities for your students.  The fact that Coach has "authoring" capability means you can quickly and easily create your own lessons and activities that conform completely to the text books, teaching methods, tools, and supplies in your own classroom.  The Coach CD also contains over 290 ready to use pre-written activities that you can use or modify for your purposes. 

The Coach CD includes the following pre-written Biology activities.

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More Information Coming Soon!

Including:

• Links to Biology Probeware Resources on the Web

• Free Biology Activities for Download

• Information about Coach and TI-CBL for Biology

• Tips for Biology Teachers using CoachLab

Please contact us if you need more information NOW

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