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Using biomechanics to introduce hypothesis testing in an undergraduate biology course
Author(s) -
Kirkton Scott D.,
Rice Steven K.
Publication year - 2008
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.22.1_supplement.575.9
Subject(s) - jumping , jump , biomechanics , acceleration , grasshopper , anatomy , muscle mass , physical medicine and rehabilitation , simulation , mathematics , computer science , biology , ecology , medicine , physiology , physics , classical mechanics , quantum mechanics , endocrinology
To improve student's quantitative and hypothesis testing skills, we have developed an inquiry‐based lab activity that uses both physiology and biomechanics to compare the jumping performance of humans and grasshoppers. Students begin by measuring the relative jump performance (jump distance per body length) of grasshoppers and themselves. Class data are compiled and students present their data graphically. To explain the observed differences in jump performance, students generate hypotheses that may include differences in muscle mass:body mass ratio, leg length:body length ratio, and muscle performance. Muscle loading and limb length hypotheses are evaluated using morphological measures of muscle mass and limb length on both grasshoppers and humans. To test the muscle performance hypothesis, students use video image analysis (iMovie, Apple) to digitize single jumps of both humans and grasshoppers. Student groups employ image‐processing software (ImageJ, NIH) to compare maximal jumping velocity and acceleration. From the acceleration and body mass measurements, students calculate muscle‐specific force production. Class data are compiled, and students interpret the relative contribution of each data set (muscle loading, limb length, or jump force) to explain the observed differences in grasshopper and human jump performance. Student response to this interactive lab has been extremely positive.