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Logan (Donna) Gwaltney, Angela Garofalo, and I, Sanjita Patel, are doing a research project as part of Mr. Gene Smith BIO 112 class. We decided to do a quantitative analysis of the Neuse River’s water. We want to sample locations (stations) before and after the water treatment plant. We will be measuring dissolved oxygen, temperature, pH, nitrates, ammonia, conductivity and fecal coli form. Mr. Miller (WCC Biology instructor) showed us how to use the “vernier” probes and measuring devices on March 13, 2009. He let me and Logan practice the probe to measure the amount of oxygen dissolved in water in the lab. He helped us located some convenient access for us to sample the Neuse River. On March 17, Logan, Angela, and I went to do our first on site water analysis. We had two hours to demonstrating the “vernier” equipment to Angela to one station and have a look at the other 5 stations to have an idea of their geographical locations. Our goal was not met: all we did was to test the first station, took few pictures, collect the water sample for the conductivity and fecal coli form analysis. We decided to narrow our 6 stations to 4 stations. So Angela and I went on March 20 to continue the week #1 testing for the next 3 stations. We spent three hours! Luckily our week #2 went faster: March 25, Angela and I did three stations. Logan will do one station over this week end. We collected 4 water samples for fecal coli form which I gave to the group who is in charge to do that testing.
I realize this week that sometimes project have to be modify in relation to the time needed to sample the stations and the driving distance between each stations. Angela and I have easy access to the river because of the boat ramp but we know that Logan will have to walk the trail to get to the river at The Cliff of the Neuse. It still takes many hours/week to just complete the collection of the data. I am learning to use the testing “vernier” equipments. It is a very interesting research project. I am enjoying doing it!
After completing my Research Project, I presented few times to the public. One was during the Honors Students Celebration and another time I presented in the Atrium with my classmates. These types of exposures gave me feedbacks and help me improve and get comfortable with my audience.
I absolutely enjoyed my research project (“Quantitative Water Analysis: An In-Depth Look at the Neuse River in NC”) given this semester. I am always enthusiastic about projects and learning experience. I think by doing this type of research project, I have knowledge about how a research project is really conducted. This will definitely help me in my upper studies. I became aware of the steps and time involve in a research project. During this research, I realize that adjustment and changes are part of the process. Even with the budget cut, we were able to perform this project. This type of project was successful because of Mr. Smith continuous feedbacks. He made it mandatory so it pushes us to complete on time. I think that was an excellent idea of a Biology class and this type of project should be implemented in future courses. I personally had a great time doing this project and definitely learn a lot from it.