The Data
Data Collection
Collecting data is the most important step in the Fossil Finders project, as it teaches students observation, measuring, and problem solving skills. These data will act as preliminary studies for paleontologists interested in the Fossil Finders localities. From questions arising in student data, paleontologists can engage in real scientific quests.
Your students will be the first individuals to look at the samples Fossil Finders provides. Together you will look at the sample, identify the fossils in the sample as brachiopod, clam, crinoid, etc., measure the length and width of each fossil, describe how complete the fossil is, and finally describe the color of the rock in which the fossil is preserved.
Some classes may wish to go further in the process and also look for encrusting organisms on other fossils (organisms that live on top of other organisms). They can also look for drill holes (holes in the fossil made by another predator almost 400 million years ago).
All data is uploaded into our database by your class, where it is used to create histograms, pie charts, and other information. Your class will be able to create hypotheses based on their data collection and test them using the compiled data from their work, and from numerous other class samples. With your guidance and the help of Fossil Finders paleontologists, your class will be able to paint a picture of upstate New York as it was 380 million years ago!
