How to utilize BIOS DataBytes?

DataBytes are designed to showcase oceanographic and atmospheric concepts with real-world data sets in ways that make them easier to interpret and understand for educational audiences. Supporting media describe how these data were collected so educators and students can make a direct connection to their source, as well as the various technologies and instruments used to collect them. Access to real-world, quality-controlled data allows students to move away from working with modular, or small, data sets collected through classroom activities, and manipulate larger data sets collected by scientists investigating relevant topics.

We suggest these data sets be used to augment concepts in current science courses and promote conversations in the classroom. Utilizing research multimedia is a useful way to introduce how these data were collected. Data visualization can then be shared to illustrate larger oceanographic and atmospheric trends, such as hypoxia and the biological carbon pump. Data sets can also be downloaded for students to manipulate, reproduce illustrations, and further probe to answer different questions rooted in fundamental concepts. Each data set will host a probe, which is a list of questions that educators and students can utilize to promote critical thinking about fundamental scientific concepts.

 What age group are these resources designed for?

BIOS DataBytes focuses on resources and activities for educators teaching advanced high school level science courses and introductory college/university coursework.