Part 5: Data Use in Environmental Science

Authentic activities that foster progressive mastery of the topic, cognitive development and enhancement of research and investigative skills are critical in engaging learners in STEM.  When we say authentic activities, we mean relevant, current, based on real-life examples, and real-time data. The following two resources (“NOAA Data in the Classroom” and “VirtualUrchin”) provide opportunities for such engagement within Environmental Sciences and more specifically related to environmental issues. These resources are versatile. They are customizable to suit the needs of the course, the desired learning objectives, and various skill levels. These resources can be easily adapted for use in fully online (asynchronous), hybrid, and in-class modes of course delivery.