Visual Lab Reports - Enhancing the Understanding of the Scientific Method

It is becoming increasingly important to integrate technology with science learning. To create future scientists, we must develop opportunities for students to investigate, record, and report their findings in an inquiry based learning environment.

The idea of a visual/virtual lab report supports the integration of technology and the understanding of the scientific method.

The beauty of this lesson plan is it is easily adaptable to all science content areas and the end results can be used as future examples and learning opportunities for all. Additionally, the use of technology to support learning provides opportunities for differentiation to meet the needs of all learners within the class. In addition to supporting science standards, students learn and advance their technology integration skills as well.

Materials need:
Lab equipment for desired lab - this varies depending on standards, essential learning, and learning targets
Digital cameras (ideally one per pair)
Access to a computer
Software to support digital images

Procedure:
Students complete the assign inquiry based science lab.

As they are working, they record information, observations, and results both with digital photos and in writing.

Students then compile their gathered information in a visual lab report.

The visual reports can be shared in various ways. The end result can be used to demonstrate learning, understanding, or in teaching others.

The end result, the visual lab report, may be used as an assessment or as a "how to" example.

Visual Lab Reports, Enhancing the Understanding of the Scientific Method, achieves two very important goals, the learning of the scientific method and the integration of technology.What a great way to support learning and engage students!

Additionally, this lesson plan can be easily adapted to other areas, including lab safety.