Visualizing thermoregulation (endothermy vs. ectothermy) in animals can be challenging for students in undergraduate biology courses. Data-driven, hands-on laboratory activities can enhance student learning while reinforcing application of the scientific method. This article describes a visual-learning, inquiry-based activity that can be applied to introductory high school and college biology laboratories with the use of easily accessible technology (a smartphone and an inexpensive thermal camera attachment). Students generate hypotheses and qualitatively observe real-time thermal images of live endothermic and ectothermic animals. This activity is effective in engaging students by allowing them to visualize thermoregulation and body temperature. We provide suggestions for modifying the activity to further investigate animal behavior related to temperature regulation.
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April 2020
Research Article|
April 01 2020
Hot- or Cold-Blooded? A Laboratory Activity That Uses Accessible Technology to Investigate Thermoregulation in Animals
Shem D. Unger,
Shem D. Unger
SHEM D. UNGER (s.unger@wingate.edu) is an Assistant Professor of Biology, Wingate University, Bridges Science Building, Wingate, NC 28174.
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Mark A. Rollins,
Mark A. Rollins
MARK A. ROLLINS (m.rollins@wingate.edu) is an Instructor in the Biology Department, Wingate University, Bridges Science Building, Wingate, NC 28174.
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Christy M. Thompson
Christy M. Thompson
CHRISTY M. THOMPSON (ch.thompson@wingate.edu) is an undergraduate biology and education double major, Wingate University, Bridges Science Building, Wingate, NC 28174.
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The American Biology Teacher (2020) 82 (4): 227–233.
Citation
Shem D. Unger, Mark A. Rollins, Christy M. Thompson; Hot- or Cold-Blooded? A Laboratory Activity That Uses Accessible Technology to Investigate Thermoregulation in Animals. The American Biology Teacher 1 April 2020; 82 (4): 227–233. doi: https://doi.org/10.1525/abt.2020.82.4.227
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