Science Journal is a free app developed by Google that allows mobile devices to record and document experiment results. A phone is no longer just a pocket-size device but also a compass, accelerometer, magnetometer, and so much more. With its easy-to-use features and extensive resources for educators, Science Journal is highly accessible and can be a great tool for classroom activities and lesson plans.
Some cool features of Science Journal include:
- Ability to accurately measure and record light, sound, movement, and many more using built-in device sensors
- Personal customization of projects with photos and notes
- Compatible with multiple platforms such as Android, iOS, and most Chromebooks
- Over 70 free activities available for students and teachers, organized by levels of difficulty and specific features such as “outdoors friendly” and “do at home”
- Ability to sync with Google Drive which encourages students to collaborate in groups and continue the learning outside the classroom
Science Journal is a valuable resource for educators as it makes many science experiments possible without the need for specific measuring tools. All you need is a mobile device that can download the app and a curious mind! Especially at this current time when many students do not have access to a physical classroom, Science Journal fills the gap by allowing students to conduct experiments at home and share the results with teachers online. As well, Science Journal encourages outdoor learning since students can take their mobile devices outside and run a science experiment.
Furthermore, Science Journal has a specific “For Teachers” page that has over 70 experiments designed by experts including California Academy of Sciences and Playful Learning Lab. This can be of special interest for teacher candidates going on practicums. Whether you plan on choosing an experiment from this extensive list or decide to make your own, the possibilities are truly endless. You can even submit your own experiment and have it featured on the site!
- Download the Science Journal App (also available in App Store)
- Sign in with Google account or continue without signing in
- Allow Camera and Photo Access
- Add a new experiment (look for the + symbol at the bottom right of your screen)
- Start collecting data
Below is a video demonstration of how to use Science Journal to create an exoplanet light curve. This activity is a part of the Phenomenal Physics and Astronomy At Home series developed by the UBC Physics and Astronomy outreach team.
