<p>Demystifying Scientific Data</p>

Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astronomy

Scientific paper

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Scientific paper

The importance of data in modern scientific research was the focus of the 2006 Research Experience for Teachers (RET) program at MIT’s Haystack Observatory. Demystifying Scientific Data is a project aimed at introducing high school students to two of the essential components of research efforts at MIT’s Haystack Observatory the processes of collecting of large quantities of data and their subsequent analyses. A recent report on Goals for Astronomy 101, created by astronomers, calls for students to be introduced to methods of analyzing evidence and critically evaluating the results, including the role of uncertainty and error in science. To do this, the RET participants Esther Santos and Peter Nassiff created a unit that will introduce high school science students to the essential skills of data analysis and interpretation. The lesson plans and activities were mainly based on astronomy, atmospheric science and geodetic research being done at Haystack Observatory.
Several topics were included in the lesson plans: using a small radio telescope (SRT) to measure the emission from the Hydrogen atom and use the data to measure the rotation curve of the Galaxy; looking at emission from water masers; the Sun-Earth connection observing the Sun with the SRT and monitoring for solar activity; observing the effects of solar activity on the Earth; and plate tectonic theory. In particular, the SRT measurements allow students to collect and analyze their own data and learn about instrumental effects on data and the effect of large number statistics.
This unit introduces students to several techniques in data analysis, giving them useful experience performing authentic scientific tasks. It gives them a first hand view of the process of science, as raw data is transformed into explanatory theories.
The RET program at MIT Haystack Observatory is funded by a grant from the National Science Foundation.

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