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Asia-Pacific Forum on Science
Learning and Teaching, Volume 5, Issue 2, Article 5 (Aug., 2004) Isaac Pak Hoi TSE, Winston Kwok Kuen LEUNG and Shing Yi CHAN Science, Technology and Society - An authentic exploration on IR thermometers application in schools
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The Extra-curricular Situation
Schools were compelled to look for one solution and then another in the rush to combat SARS and H5N1 Avian Flu virus etc. since March 2003. Oral thermometers were out of the question in face of the time requirement for each test and the vast number of students entering the school gate every morning within a short twenty minutes. The more efficient InfraRed (IR) ear detection thermometers were challenged for the possible alternative threat of dermal contagious diseases. Non-contact IR thermometer sounds the perfect solution to tackle the demand for quick measurement of body temperature every morning. Technical sales agents rush to search for such industrial device, prepared attractive pamphlets within short period of time and began their launch for promotion to schools in the frenzy to look for an efficient solution.
However after a fairly short initial application of our new tools, we discovered that the IR non-contact thermometers sold to schools were far from being foolproof. We started to investigate the source of random errors and by serendipity we discovered that this could be converted into a flexible project-based learning opportunity at all levels in different ways in a secondary school. This article aims to facilitate a full understanding on the limitation of application of IR non-contact thermometer devices and then explore possible scenario for students-centered learning in schools.
Copyright (C) 2004 HKIEd APFSLT. Volume 5, Issue 2, Article 5 (Aug., 2004). All Rights Reserved.
