Stage 2 - Data Loggers




Approaches to collect, store, interpret and represent data

 The Kookaberry is a microcomputer made by Australian company Austem. This tool has been designed allow learners an opportunity to engage with digital technologies and science concepts - whilst this tool can be compared to a Rasberry Pi, Arduino or Micro:Bit, the small LED screen and unique design allows it to stand from the pack as a learning tool for the future.


When I first used the Kookaberry it was clear that there are many application for both learning about digital systems, algorithm development and using the microcomputer as a tool to support scientific inquiry. Schools are striving to provide authentic learning experiences for students specifically around current social and environmental issues. My aim was to provide students with a hands on introduction to the Kookaberry to support the knowledge and skills required to collect, store, interpret and represent data.

 Exploring the many applications preloaded on the Kookaberry I wanted to 'look under the hood' to understand how the python code allowed for the input, process and output. Similar to a deconstruction or backwards mapping exercise, I tinkered with the code to understand how individual elements allowed for the programs to function.

 The year 4 teachers at St Angela's Primary School Kellyville were keen to expose students to data collection using solar panels to support a project on non-renewable and renewable energy sources. Over three weeks, I was able to provide a 1.5hr workshop for each class to support the below syllabus content/context:

 ST2-8PW-ST - describes the characteristics and effects of common forms of energy, such as light and heat

  • How can electricity be used in a product or system? 
    • describe examples where light, sound, heat and electrical energy transform from one type of energy to another, for example:
      • a solar panel transforms light energy into electrical energy



With one session for each class, I designed a simple workshop that:
- Intro to Kookaberry
- Hands-on exploring the tools that will be used, or time to 'press all the buttons!'
- Headlines from the project so far - New report
- What is data? Why collect data? 
- Setup the Kookaberry and solar panels to collect data

Context





Why use digital technologies to collect and log data?




Collecting data using our bespoke digital system


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