Bone Density Challenge Introduction
An x-ray iimage of a mouse, obtained via cabinet x-ray system.Copyright Dr. Edwin Donnelly, Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Students are introduced to the challenge question, which revolves around proving that a cabinet x-ray system can produce bone mineral density images. Students work independently to generate ideas from the questions provided, then share with partners and then with the class as part of the Multiple Perspectives phase of this unit. Then, as part of the associated activity, students explore multiple websites to gather information about bone mineral density and answer worksheet questions, followed by a quiz on the material covered in the articles.
Medical imaging is a large area of study for biomedical engineering. As students explore one of the many modalities of medical imaging, x-rays, they begin the think like engineers when they gather information in their research, just as engineers research before proceeding to imagine and make decisions as part of the design process. In addition, the challenge question forces students make a critical decision based on criteria that they learn throughout the unit.
After this lesson, students should be able to:
- Explain the importance and uses of bone mineral density.
- Explain how x-rays work.
- Explain how logarithms connect to bone mineral density tests.