A Mathematical Look into Ngorongoro Crater Migration Patterns
Presentation Type
Poster/Portfolio
Presenter Major(s)
Mathematics, Education
Mentor Information
Lisa Kasmer
Department
Mathematics
Location
Kirkhof Center KC25
Start Date
10-4-2013 9:00 AM
End Date
10-4-2013 11:00 AM
Keywords
Environment, Life Science, Mathematical Science
Abstract
The Ngorongoro Crater is a concave volcano that has developed into a unique ecosystem differing from the surrounding Serengeti. While animals in the Serengeti migrate great distances to obtain sustenance, the Ngorongoro Crater provides ample food and water supply to animals residing there. Consequently, animals in the crater do not participate in the migratory patterns of their counterparts outside of the crater. Instead, animals have unique migratory patterns within the crater. To study these patterns, resources from scientific studies done in the Ngorongoro Crater and interviews with those have completed research there have been used. Using the data collected from research on migratory patterns, a mathematical activity book was created for high school students allowing them to analyze the data to learn mathematical concepts. Adding a global context into a math unit helps students see a real-world application and sparks interest in conservation of the globe's unique ecosystems.
A Mathematical Look into Ngorongoro Crater Migration Patterns
Kirkhof Center KC25
The Ngorongoro Crater is a concave volcano that has developed into a unique ecosystem differing from the surrounding Serengeti. While animals in the Serengeti migrate great distances to obtain sustenance, the Ngorongoro Crater provides ample food and water supply to animals residing there. Consequently, animals in the crater do not participate in the migratory patterns of their counterparts outside of the crater. Instead, animals have unique migratory patterns within the crater. To study these patterns, resources from scientific studies done in the Ngorongoro Crater and interviews with those have completed research there have been used. Using the data collected from research on migratory patterns, a mathematical activity book was created for high school students allowing them to analyze the data to learn mathematical concepts. Adding a global context into a math unit helps students see a real-world application and sparks interest in conservation of the globe's unique ecosystems.