Undergraduate geophysics course
Designed for a geophysics course

They must be able to do simple mathematical calculations (algebra) and make a simple graph, fit a line to their data and find the slope.

This exercise is usually used to introduce the function of the gravimeter to the students.

Introduction to using a gravimeter; making measurments and accurately recording the data.

Analyzing the data for drift and correcting it; plotting the resulting gravity value vs. elevation; finding the slope and comparing their value to the elevation correction.

They must work with a their fellow students to collect the data, then analyze the results and write a report for a grade in the course. There are two follow-up labs where the knowledge they gain on the use of the meter is critical to their success.

Students will prepare for the lab by reading a description of gravity meter operation. After a brief quiz, the students will assemble with the meter in the stairwell of the building and measure the elevation to each level. After this, they will take multiple measurements on each level going up the stairwell, and then repeat the measurements on the way down, making sure to record the data values and the time. They will then convert the raw data to mGal using the conversion factor from the meter, and then use the data from the lower level to correct for drift. The corrected data are then plotted vs. elevation, a slope determined and the slope compared to the elevation correction term. The students will then write a lab report describing the procedure, presenting the data and their analysis, example calculations and their results.
Has minimal/no quantitative component

I read over the lab reports to make sure they have understood the assignment a correctly analyzed the collected data. I then assign a grade based upon how well they have done. I don't look so much at the final answer, but more at the procedure - a calculator (or their fingers!) can malfunction, but if they understand meter operation well enough to collect good data and can analyze it properly, I think the goals for this lab are met.

This is the web site I started for this class before 15-contact hours a week bogged me down:
http://itc.gsw.edu/faculty/speavy/spclass/Engeoph/Engeoph.htm

I reference them to a link to John Louie's web page on how to use a Worden gravimeter.