| Abstrakt: |
Experimentation is the foundation of science and an important process for students to understand and experience. However, it can be difficult to teach some aspects of experimentation within the time and resource constraints of an academic semester. Interactive models can be a useful tool in bridging this gap. This freely accessible simulation provides a unique opportunity for students to practice designing experiments and analyzing their results. The effects of sample size and variability on the usefulness and accuracy of experimental data are an important component of these exercises. In addition, students can easily repeat their experiments, demonstrating that repetition doesn't necessarily lead to exact replication due to natural variability. Lastly, the simulation provides a range of flexible input categories that allow students to develop their own experimental questions about Steller sea lion behavior, and to explore a range of parameters, including various specific behaviors, the sex of the animals, and various sampling intervals such as hourly, daily, seasonally, or even annually. While this exercise does not replace first-hand experience with experimentation, it provides a good foundation for students to build on as they begin the process of designing and implementing their own research projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
