Wireless Data Collecting with the LabQuest 3 for STEM Classes

Research consistently shows that interactive, hands-on learning experiences are the most effective for boosting student engagement and understanding of abstract scientific concepts.

In this current school year (2023-2024), the science department has used Vernier sensors, probes, and interfaces in IB Sports, Exercise, and Health Science (hand grip sensors and heart rate sensors), IB Chemistry (oxygen sensors), and Physics (force plate sensors). This equipment and technology allows students to do experiments and see data/results in real time. This data can be saved, further processed and analyzed, getting students to genuinely experience scientific concepts and ultimately forming a richer understanding of information. Furthermore, we have had five students use this equipment this year for their required IA project in IB Science classes.

Over the past decade, the science department at Dexter High School has invested heavily in both hardware and software from Vernier Science Education. We currently have over $10,000 worth of sensors and probes from Vernier. In the past, EFD has funded the purchase of Vernier carbon dioxide sensors (GRANT NO. 2022-Spring-08). Unfortunately, our current interfaces, the LabQuest and LabQuest Mini are becoming obsolete and will be phased out soon (vernier.com)

The LabQuest 3 is a stand alone data-collection platform that students can use to collect, analyze, and interact with data efficiently. With its new capacitive touch screen, students can navigate the platform with ease, and because of its wireless capabilities, students can collect data anywhere with LabQuest 3.

Additionally, an important advantage with using the LabQuest 3 is that it is a stand alone interface. We must rely on our high school’s MacBook computers in order to use our current Vernier equipment, however, the IT department is planning on phasing out MacBook computers at Dexter High School. The new LabQuest 3 will resolve this issue.

Finally, complete curriculum changes in IB Biology and IB Chemistry this year as well as IB Sports, Exercise, and Health Science next year require several entirely new activities and labs. (AP Biology and AP Chemistry will also be changing in the future). The LabQuest 3 will allow us to quickly adapt to the changing needs of these classes while still employing equipment and technology already purchased.

In summary, we have had great success using Vernier equipment and technology in our STEM classes at Dexter High School. We would like to continue doing so by purchasing the LabQuest 3.