As with other data, the video observations are archived so they can be reviewed and compared. Collaborative tools link this together. They provide ways for students to find information, record their own observations, find students with similar interests and coordinate activities. The general design of this laboratory course encourages individual activities. Students must manage individual responsibility with group collaboration.
All information is collected by individuals.
Interpretation of what is happening on a site requires that a large, complete set of data be available. Therefore, data sharing is encouraged and necessary. The field studies collect data from two types of sites. A local, easily available field site is the primary place information is gathered by student visits. It is far from an optimal place to do ecological studies.