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.

This document is currently not available here.

Share

COinS
 
Apr 10th, 9:00 AM Apr 10th, 11:00 AM

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.