Accuracy, Precision and Errors in Navigation: Getting It Right!
Compasses aid in navigation.Copyright Wikimedia Commons http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/59/Plastic-compass.jpg
In this lesson, students investigate error. As they learned in earlier activities from the Navigation unit (lessons 1 through 3), without an understanding of how errors can affect your position, you cannot navigate well. Introducing accuracy and precision develops these concepts further. Also, students learn how computers can help in navigation. Often, the calculations needed to navigate accurately are time consuming and complex. By using the power of computers to do calculations and repetitive tasks, one can quickly see how changing parameters like angles and distances and introducing errors affects the overall result.
Engineers must be aware that the theoretical equations they use to describe the physical world are approximations. Some equations are accurate approximations, and others are rough as can be seen in the associated activity Close Enough? Angles & Accuracy of Measurement in Navigation. An engineer must have the experience and skill to determine how much error is acceptable for a particular design. Engineers use many techniques, many of which involve computers, to help process the many calculations required to make good estimations. Students can practice with the associated activities Computer Accuracy and Sextant Solutions to see how computers can help Engineers deal with error.
- Explain that mathematical concepts are required when navigating.
- Describe the difference between accuracy and precision.
- Explain the value computers have on society and describe the advantages as well as disadvantages of using a computer.