Applying Technology to Process Data in Biology
- With the volume and complexity of data from some types of investigation, the integration of technology has become essential for efficiently processing, analysing and interpreting experimental data
- Using technology to process data can be demonstrated when conducting internal assessment as well as during practical investigations, e.g.
- Spreadsheets can be used to record and manipulate data
- It is easy to input raw data, categorise it, and organise it into columns and rows
- Spreadsheets can perform calculations, statistical analyses and mathematical operations on datasets
- Computers can draw graphs from raw data
- Spreadsheets employ built-in functions to automatically generate graphs and charts, making it possible to visualise trends, patterns, and correlations in the data
- E.g. population data may yield data with large ranges that are easier to manipulate using a computer
- Computers can use data to produce models to inform ongoing predictions
- Images can be analysed using computer programmes
- E.g. images of joints in motion can be analysed using a computer
- Spreadsheets can be used to record and manipulate data