Qualitative and Quantitative Lab (grades 3 – 8)
Available as a Workshop and/or Consulting by Dick Bothmer
Not all data collected about specimens can be measured exactly. That which can be measured exactly is called quantitative data. For example, the weight of an item is not subject to discussion. It is what the scale says. However, data collectors may use different descriptors about the color of a kiwi fruit: brown, beige, tan. Likewise they may differ about whether or not a persimmon smells pleasant or unpleasant. These are judgmental, or qualitative, decisions. They are no less important to collect. Scientists are often called upon to make both kinds of decisions when collecting data. Using fruit and vegetable specimens, trays, data collection sheets, hand lenses, tape measures, gram counters, and balances or scales, participants will collect data using both personal judgments (qualitative) and actual measurements (quantitative).
Limit: 40
