RELAQS: Research and Education with Low-cost Air Quality Sensors

Keywords: Low-cost sensors, air quality monitoring, high school learning outcomes, real time data, cloud based monitoring
Abstract Type: Poster Abstract

Abstract

Spatially distributed networks of low-cost air quality sensors have tremendous potential as educational tools to give students the opportunity to learn about atmospheric sciences in a sensory format. However, studying how these low-cost sensors help students meet learning goals has been a relatively untouched topic in scientific and educational research. During phase 2 of this ongoing project, we attempt to further address this gap in knowledge by deploying low-cost air quality sensors in high school Advanced Placement (AP) groups to evaluate how using sensors and online databases affects learning outcomes. The custom-made sensor kits measure VOCs and particulate matter (PM2.5). Each unit uses both solar panels and a rechargeable battery to power an air quality sensor and a cloud-based motoring chip. The cloud-based chip transmits measurements to a downloadable online database where data can be visualized in real-time. Sensors are then calibrated against reference monitors to preserve data integrity. For this research, new classroom activities incorporating the sensors and their data are designed to meet specific US NGSS (Next Generation Science Standards) and AP standards. The phase 2 study group includes 60 students, 4 classes, and both traditional and non-traditional air quality experiments. Phase 1 of this project showed that students not only preferred using the low-cost air quality sensors but also that they had a higher retention of knowledge learned while participating in the lab experiment. Our goal for phase 2 is to repeat this project on a larger scale to create a statically meaningful data profile.