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Some unusual applications of the "error-bar" feature in EXCEL spreadsheets

Version 2 2024-06-03, 09:50
Version 1 2014-10-27, 16:27
journal contribution
posted on 2024-06-03, 09:50 authored by Kieran LimKieran Lim
This paper demonstrates how the "error-bar" feature can be used to extend the utility of "worldware" spreadsheet packages in producing high-quality graphs for university teaching and learning, and for research. In order to further utilize the advantages of spreadsheets in university education, this paper seeks to overcome some of the earlier reservations about spreadsheet applications' lack of scientific plotting capabilities. Specific examples of educational material in the areas of enzyme kinetics, vibrational spectroscopy, vibronic spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry are discussed. It is argued that, where practical, university educators should use "worldware" packages to prepare teaching aids, since they would be better placed to prepare their students for future employment. The use of software features for purposes, which were not envisioned by the programmers, has additional educational benefits in fostering flexibility and innovation. The usage of the "error-bar" feature, discussed here, can also be applied to other graphing packages.

History

Journal

Journal of Chemical Education

Volume

79

Pagination

135-

Location

Bellmawr, NJ

ISSN

0021-9584

Language

eng

Notes

This paper demonstrates how the "error-bar" feature can be used to extend the utility of "worldware" spreadsheet packages in producing high-quality graphs for university teaching and learning, and for research. In order to further utilize the advantages of spreadsheets in university education, this paper seeks to overcome some of the earlier reservations about spreadsheet applications' lack of scientific plotting capabilities. Specific examples of educational material in the areas of enzyme kinetics, vibrational spectroscopy, vibronic spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry are discussed. It is argued that, where practical, university educators should use "worldware" packages to prepare teaching aids, since they would be better placed to prepare their students for future employment. The use of software features for purposes, which were not envisioned by the programmers, has additional educational benefits in fostering flexibility and innovation. The usage of the "error-bar" feature, discussed here, can also be applied to other graphing packages.

Publication classification

C1 Refereed article in a scholarly journal

Issue

1

Publisher

Division of Chemical Education of the American Chemical Society