Student engagement and education in underwater sound through the build-a-hydrophone activity

Abstract

The hydrophone is arguably the most basic sensor used in underwater acoustics. In its simplest form, this passive device provides scientists, and users of all kinds, the ability to listen to and capture natural and anthropogenic sounds that occur in our aquatic world. As part of an array, this technology enables humans to perform such underwater tasks as tracking submerged targets to studying volcanic and tectonic processes. The concept behind the do-it-yourself (DIY) activity to build a hydrophone is not unique. A simple Internet search will reveal numerous design options geared toward constructing a functional hydrophone. The Center for Ocean Sciences Education Excellence (COSEE), Technology and Engineering for Knowledge (TEK), at the University of Connecticut, has modified this activity to offer an alternative that is both affordable and functional, while minimizing the technical skills, tools, and time required for completion. The outcome has been the development of a hands-on student exercise that pr...