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Global Positioning System and Imagery Collection

Author(s): 
Keith Erickson, Alex Heidenberg, Michael Huber, and Erica Slate-Young (Editors)

Abstract

The JOMA Global Positioning System and Imagery Collection is a growing library of data, how-tos, and materials for learning mathematics, science, and engineering using data collected with GPS units and both digital still and movie cameras. The GPS library provides access to "real-world" data designed to excite both the exploratory and explanatory nature of mathematical modeling.

Because the world in which we live is three-dimensional and much of our data is three-dimensional, three-dimensional visualization is extremely important -- both three-dimensional visualization of objects in the real world and three dimensional visualization of computer-generated models. Three-dimensional data will hopefully motivate some great mathematics, science and engineering. The real power of GPS units, digital imagery, and toys and hobby equipment is that you and your students can use them to collect interesting data that begs for mathematical and scientific study.

The collection is separated into three categories; data sets, how-tos, and instructional material. The data sets provide example data that is formatted to be easily incorporated into classroom exercises. The how-to section provides detailed instructions of the basic techniques for working with GPSI data. The classroom material section is a collection of materials for learning mathematics, science, and engineering. It translates data collection and "real-world" data into classroom experiences and the learning of mathematics.

We hope that you enjoy the benefits of using the material in the collection and contribute your own creative ideas to its growing body of substance.

Keywords

  • modeling
  • data collection
  • applied mathematics
  • GPS
  • 3D Visualization
  • real world problems
  • digital imagery
  • Google Earth
  • LoggerPro

Publication Data

Published March, 2007; Article ID 1430

Collection Link

Keith Erickson, Alex Heidenberg, Michael Huber, and Erica Slate-Young (Editors), "Global Positioning System and Imagery Collection," Convergence (March 2009)