Are we collecting the data we “can” or the data we “should”?

“can”

data


“can”

data crunching


“can”

data crunching


Splat

“can”

data crunching


Might “can” lead to “should”?

“Does the ability to measure more things faster generate new research questions or even new research areas (“should” developing from “can”)?

This seems to be the mindset for many areas now (gene expression arrays, bioinformatics, etc.)…” – L. Waller

“should” and “can”

data crunchingecological question based on --an hypothesis--a mathematical model


Is a wireless sensor network just cool, or is it actually needed?

• Are data from a wide area required? Networked sensors can drastically reduce logistical costs associated with visiting a large number of locations, and make extensive sensing feasible when it would otherwise not be.• Do data need to be collected at high frequencies? Measurements that generate voluminous data (such as still image, video, audio, or multiple sensors) can overwhelm the storage on traditional data loggers, especially if data are collected at a high frequency.• Does data collection need to be unobtrusive? In some cases, such as behavioral studies, periodic visits to record data or to dump a data logger will change the behavior of the system under study.• Are real-time or near-real-time data needed? Rapid access to data may be required if experimental manipulations are to be pursued; if reducing gaps in data caused by sensor failures is a priority; or if conditions such as fire, flooding, or severe weather imperil the sensor system.• Is a bidirectional data flow required? Targeting measurements of particular phenomena may require flexibility in the frequency and type of measurements, experimental studies may require periodic robotic manipulation, and researchers in the field may require access to data resources available over the Internet.

Porter et al. (2005) Wireless sensor networks for ecology. Bioscience 55(7):561-572.


ecological question based on --an hypothesis--a mathematical model


data crunching





sensorinnovation




sensorinnovation

robust in the field--drift--fouling




sensorinnovation


affordable




sensorinnovation

affordable


sufficientlyaccurate andnumerous



sensorinnovation

affordable


sufficientlyaccurate andnumerous not too

power hungry




sensorinnovation

affordable


sufficientlyaccurate andnumerous not too

power hungry


error d

etection

data stre

am handling

data stora

ge

data prese

ntation


Computer science-and statistics-driven innovations


Sensor innovations



Sensor innovations


Ecologicalinnovations



“Need to be clear whether trying to do ecology, or using ecological data as a driver to test out computer science and statistical ideas…” --D. Estrin

Sensor innovations




“…there is too much confusion at times between computer science driven innovations and domain science innovations…” --D. Estrin

Sensor innovations


1a. Is it your sense that the priorities and work emphases in the wireless sensor networks community are properly focused for moving forward to gather the most useful data for understanding environmental systems…?

1a. Is it your sense that the priorities and work emphases in the wireless sensor networks community are properly focused for moving forward to gather the most useful data for understanding environmental systems…? What are the high priority “action” items in your field? What are lower priority items in your field?


1b. …or has some of the community spun off into a focus on details that doesn’tmatch up with the current needs of the ecological community?


1b. …or has some of the community spun off into a focus on details that doesn’tmatch up with the current needs of the ecological community? What do you suspect may be off-base priorities/assumptions/foci in other fields?!...



(You will have the opportunity to throw “tomatoes” at your colleagues during our discussion)

Aunt Gertie’s

Homer Fike’s

Yellow Oxheart




2. As a community interested in the environment and monitoring it, how do wepromote communication among ecologists and computer scientists, engineers,and statisticians that will result in the most efficient use of development time?

Aunt Gertie’s

Homer Fike’s

Yellow Oxheart




2. As a community interested in the environment and monitoring it, how do wepromote communication among ecologists and computer scientists, engineers,and statisticians that will result in the most efficient use of development time? How do we keep the conversation going?

Aunt Gertie’s

Homer Fike’s

Yellow Oxheart




2. As a community interested in the environment and monitoring it, how do wepromote communication among ecologists and computer scientists, engineers,and statisticians that will result in the most efficient use of development time? How do we keep the conversation going?

3. Within sensor networks, we can gather a whole lot of numbers very quickly,but how can we ensure they will mean something (be useful)? Different fields likely have very different answers to this…

Aunt Gertie’s

Homer Fike’s

Yellow Oxheart

Are we collecting the data we “can” or the data we “should”?

Documents

Transcript of Are we collecting the data we “can” or the data we “should”?