Blog: 3dquadrat.blogspot.com
3D Images: www.tufts.edu/as/wright_center/3dqp/image_gallery.html
Introduction - 3-D quadrats are designed to promote an understanding of Earth System Science. The Earth system is very dynamic and involves multiple variables that are all dependent on each other. These variables included aspects of all five spheres: the atmosphere, the biosphere, the hydrosphere, the lithosphere, and the cryosphere. Too often students are asked to make observations and collect data from only one sphere and do not gain experience in understanding the entire system. 3-d quadrats create a workable sized space that encourages and allows collecting observations and data from multiple interactive parts of the Earth system. The basic unit of size for the 3-d Quadrat is 1m3 and we encourage the creation of other multiple of this size - a 10m3 space may be the perfect size for an entire ecology lab for a class. Observations/data collected in each 3-D quadrat can then be applied to the larger Earth system. This program is not just limited to K-12th grade students but is developed to include informal education as well. A number of workshops, seminars, educational materials, and a variety of public-outreach activities have been developed to demonstrate the use of 3-D quadrats. Their use is not limited to earth science students but includes mathematics, literature, art, and social studies. 3-D Quadrats support basic and applied research and evaluation that enhances science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) learning and teaching. Most notably 3-d quadrats can be used as closed or open systems with dynamic movement through the quadrat boundaries supporting a natural system flow of variables.
Purpose - 3-D quadrats development is maintained by The Last Environment, Inc. Inc. which provide experiential programs for students and adults. To this end, our goals are fourfold: