iSeismograph

1. iSeismograph • Target Audience: • Undergraduates (physics, vibrations/dynamics, earthquake engineering) • Learning Objectives: Using technology, ability to apply theory to solve real world problems • Ability to design an experiment (ABET) to demonstrate unique dynamics of physical systems with different properties such that a theory or simulation could be used to predict the experimental data acquired • Ability to convey results in written report in a group environment (ABET) • Ability to work in teams (ABET) • Evidence/Assessment: • In a follow up activity, force teams to swap experiments and prove that it is executable; peer discussion and evaluation of experiment and results; • Give students scenarios through exams or assignments where errors/uncertainties are present and see if they could systematically develop a process to isolate each of these possible sources and determine whether it is the culprit • Before and after the module • Have a control with another class • Rubrics (before and after)…

2. iSeismograph • Materials/Tools: • iSeismograph with Macbook • iPhone apps that tie accelerometers to GPS • Example: CAD mapping of position of students during sporting events in stadiums showing differences between harmonic and random motions; Human transfer functions have different frequencies/damping and students standing side by side will record different motions with their phone through human/structure interaction; • Similar experiments with suspension systems in cars, etc. • Delivery: • Lecture of physical theory/concept (in this case dynamics) • Technology training with a prescribed experiment, • Break out discussion on the content/experimental design perspective – did it prove what you were trying to demonstrate? • Written report with critiquing • Evaluation of the team and management of team, then teams are charged to break out and design the experiment • Barriers: • Assessment, documentation, initial set up of technology