In addition to the other benefits of using data, student data collection and analysis can help them enhance measurement skills and ability to design their own experiments. Here we identify three common ways that students can participate in data collection:

• Using microcomputer-based laboratory (MBL) or calculator-based laboratory (CBL) equipment. Learn more here
  
  
• Having students use traditional measurement approaches (meter sticks, mass balances, pH meters, stop watches, etc.) to collect their own data can intimately connect them with their data. This approach is particularly useful when stressing measurement uncertainty and data quality.


• Student data collection networks, such as the GLOBE Project (more info) in which students not only collect their own data but also contribute and have access to a larger archive of student collected data.