(Update – this is now called Arduino Science Journal) Science Journal is a free digital science notebook from Google which turns Android and iOS devices into a data logging and recording tool using your devices built-in sensors.

Each experiment is a blank page that students can fill with notes and photos as they observe the world around you. The app makes use of your devices built-in sensors to measure real-world data such as sound level, light level as well as movement. Students can add in measurements taken by the app, along with their thoughts and observations, as well any photos they’ve taken.

Sensors can record information over time, as well as make a snapshot readings as they go along. As long as your tablet/phone has the appropriate hardware, students can use the app to measure light, sound and movement as well as an accelerometer, a magnetometer and a compass.

Google have released a stack of ready made activities and lesson ideas that you can do with the app. For example try attaching your phone to a spring and let it bounce up and down or strap it to a balloon-powered car.

The app can also connect to external sensors via Bluetooth to allow an even wider range of measurements to be made. The recorded data can be exported as a CSV file.

It’s an impressive app. It’s totally free, so there’s nothing to stop you installing it on your class iPads or Android tablets. Or test it out on your phone first!

Science Journal is available for free on Android, iOS, and compatible Chromebook devices.

For more information, visit makingscience.withgoogle.com/science-journal.