Notebook Basics

Learning objectives

Code alone makes it easy to forget inputs and the reasoning behind decisions. Turn a small experiment into a record you can revisit and check.

Markdown lab record

Starting conditions

Use a hypothetical distance sensor with $t=\begin{bmatrix}0&1&2\end{bmatrix}$ s and distance=[1.2,1.0,.9] m.

Procedure

1. Write 3 heading levels and 2~3 sentences describing the exercise objective.
2. Include a table with time, distance, and units, and one Δdistance/Δtime formula.
3. Distinguish two observed facts from one thing you cannot yet determine.

Results to retain

• 1 Markdown cell: one screenful containing a title, table, formula, and interpretation.

Record results and self-check

Time [s]:

Distance [m]:

Observation:

Points to check

• Are units consistent between the table values and the explanations?
• Do the equations and tables actually render when the Markdown is run?

Execution records and predictions

Starting conditions

Using the same data, calculate the average rates of change for 0~1 s and 1~2 s.

Procedure

1. Before calculating, write your predicted rates of decrease for the two intervals in sentences.
2. Record formula substitutions and calculated values, then compare with your predictions.
3. Include one link to the original learning material you cited, and briefly identify the part you used.

Results to retain

• A table for the two intervals and 2 lines of calculations.

Record results and self-check

Interval [s]:

Prediction:

Average rate of change [m/s]:

Interpretation:

Points to check

• Did you distinguish change from rate of change?
• Did you explain the meaning of the signs, beyond simply listing numbers?

Reuse the record with different data

Starting conditions

The new distance data are [1.2,1.25,1.3] m. Times remain the same.

Procedure

1. Copy the first record's format, but update values, plot descriptions, and interpretations for the new data.
2. Compare the decreasing and increasing data in one table.
3. Check for old numbers or sentences that have not been updated.

Results to retain

• A comparison table for the two datasets and a 3-sentence summary.

Record results and self-check

Materials:

Direction of change:

Rate of change in the first interval:

Interpretation:

Points to check

• Did you distinguish changed data from the record format that stayed the same?
• Are the title, units, and tables consistent?