Association for Biology Laboratory Education

Using webcams as a tool for applying quantitative methods to animal behavior
    

Brian Swisher

Advances in Biology Laboratory Education, 2026, Volume 46

https://doi.org/10.37590/able.v46.abs34

Abstract

Webcams are a widespread and inexpensive technology that can be used to observe the behavior of animals that otherwise may be inaccessible to a lab or field-based course. Although the initial appeal of webcams is their widespread availability and ease of viewing for entertainment, a subset of available camera sites are suitable for scientific study using quantitative methods. This workshop will introduce participants to each of the main components of a multi-week group-project lab that involves students of animal behavior in: camera selection, formulation of a study question, development of a data collection plan, data collection and analysis, and presentation of their project. Workshop participants will gain experience practicing various methods for collecting and quantifying behavioral data and begin collecting data from a webcam of their choice.

Keywords:  web cam, animal behavior, data analysis, quantitative methods

University of Manitoba (2025)