Frequently Asked Questions

DATA

How do I send in data?
You can send us the field data collection sheet that you use during the sampling day. You do not need to "neaten" it up or recopy it, just make sure all the data is legible, accurate, and calculated correctly. To send it to us, use the pre-addressed, postage paid envelopes or fax it (814) 332-2789. You can also email us data (creek@allegheny.edu). Or, you can use our on-line data submission page. This is located at http://creekconnections.allegheny.edu/DataFiles/datasubmissionform.html or go to our homepage (http://creekconnections.allegheny.edu), click on "Water Quality Data", scroll down and click on "Submit New Water Quality Data". If you submit data online, please also keep a hard copy of the data for your files.

When do I send in data?
As soon as you can after your sampling event. We need your data in order to post it on the website and to share it with the other participating schools for data comparison. Do not hoard your data. Send it to us. It doesn't look very good if there is no data next to your schools name on the data tables. Plus more attention is going to be devoted to data analysis activities, and we need your data in order for comparisons to be made.

Where can I view ALL the data submitted by schools?
The most up to date data can be viewed on our website (http://creekconnections.allegheny.edu/DataFiles/Data.html). It is loaded to the web at least once a month (more often in March and April). Data from 1995-present can also be viewed on our website. If you do not have access to the Internet to view on-line data, Creek Connections can mail you a paper copy as often as you wish.

Who uses / views the data?
The main audience is participating Creek Connection schools, but since the data is located on the website, the potential audience is large. The public is welcome to check out the data for their local streams. Allegheny College uses the data in a number of classes and also for research purposes. The Department of Environmental Protection knows that we maintain a database. Volunteer monitors and monitoring programs throughout the state may find your data very interesting. In addition, requests have been made by the University of Pittsburgh to develop data analysis activities using real data; they want to include our database.

How do I know if the numbers we are getting are accurate?
Emphasize correct testing methods with your students throughout the year. Inaccurate results are usually due to procedural error. When a number is obtained, your students can compare it to the "normal creek range" numbers on the field data collection sheet and the maximum and minimum numbers / ranges on the backside of each Test Information Sheet in the handbook. On the Information Sheets, they can also see how their results compare to the water quality standards set by our government agencies.
If an obtained number seems out of normal range, ask the students if they followed all instructions. If they did, do another trial if time permits and see if the results differ. The more trials you do, the more comfortable you can be with the results. Also keep an eye on that chemical parameter next time you sample your waterway to see if it turns out to be peculiar again. Make note of any unusual data results to Creek Connections when you send in the data.

Are there any resources to use to help conduct data analysis with my class?
One resource can be Allegheny staff and student assistance. There is also a section in the Handbook for Water Quality Analysis of Western Pennsylvania Waterways that includes an Introduction to Water Quality Data Analysis. We also have given teachers a copy of information sheets about land use effects on water quality parameters, parameter comparisons, and some data analysis activities. There will also be some data analysis activities / quizzes / handouts posted routinely on the web for classroom or web-surfing use.