title: Pedometer and Human Energy Balance Applications for Science Instruction.
abstract: Teachers can use pedometers to facilitate inquiry learning and show students the need for mathematics in scientific investigation. The authors conducted activities with secondary students that investigated intake and expenditure components of the energy balance algorithm, which led to inquiries about pedometers and related data. By investigating the accuracy of pedometers and variables that may impact reported step counts, students can better understand experimental design and statistical concepts. Students can also examine other data (distance walked, kilocalories expended) using multifunction pedometers and apply the concepts of correlation and regression. This topic fits well with thematic learning and responds to concerns about excess energy intake and insufficient physical activity in the U.S. population.
authors.affiliation: JAMES A. RYE is an associate professor at West Virginia University, where he teaches science education courses. He earned his PhD in curriculum and instruction, with an emphasis in science education, from Pennsylvania State University.
authors.forename: James A
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: Rye
authors.forename: Stefan
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Smolski