Datalogging in Science

What is Datalogging?

Firstly, electronic sensors collect physical data e.g. measurements of; temperature, pressure, voltage, humidity, etc. The data is then stored in a device known as a datalogger.
The data may then be downloaded from the datalogger and stored in a computer, where specialised software programs may be used to process the data and display it as charts, graphs and tables.

Gathering data is a common feature of practical work in a school science laboratory. Datalogging automates this process so as to reduce the amount of tedious repetitive tasks and increase efficiency.

Why use Datalogging:

Data can be recorded accurately and efficiently, whether in the classroom, science laboratory or on field trips.

Data may be stored in the memory of the datalogger with a view to connecting it at a later time to a computer (or other hardware) for presentation, analysis and manipulation.

Graphs of data from physical measurements may be produced in “real time” (i.e. the construction of the graph takes place as the data is being collected, and the graph is modified on the computer screen as the data is gathered.

Datalogging enables a shift of emphasis from the gathering of data to the analysis and interpretation of the data.

Datalogging enables students to repeat experiments several times due to the speed at which data is collected. Th.is facilitates the repetition of experiments under modified circumstances and comparison of outcomes

Datalogging allows data to be collected over lengthy periods or to capture events that happen too quickly to be easily measured using conventional equipment.

Datalogging promotes collaborative learning.

Datalogging allows students to measure more accurately and display results in a more "professional" manner, whether as charts, graphs or tables.