A CD-ROM, available from Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant College Program, teaches about water quality, one of the most fundamental areas of aquaculture. "Testing Dissolved Oxygen Using the Winkler Method" provides students with instruction on basic water chemistry testing, which is critical for maintaining healthy fish.

"Dissolved oxygen is the most important water test conducted on a farm or in an aquaculture laboratory," says Sea Grant Aquaculture Specialist LaDon Swann who developed this tutorial in a CD format. High school instructors share this opinion, according to Swann.

This interactive disc is a valuable classroom tool for both vocational agriculture or agri-science teachers and students. In addition, secondary biology and chemistry teachers can also appreciate its focus on water chemistry, according to Swann. Producers new to the field of aquaculture will also find it helpful.

Use of the CD compliments students’ experiences in learning aquaculture fundamentals using small tank systems or a number of aquaria. The CD is a valuable tool because it provides a self-paced learning experience that is reinforced through observations, simulations and practice-and-drill exercises. When students master the technique for dissolved oxygen testing, they will see results of better fish health and survival to the market.

The computer-based training uses over 33 color photographs and two video segments that reinforce critical aspects of conducting the Winkler testing method. Audio clips are used to draw attention to important aspects of the training program.

• Introduction to program objectives and importance of dissolved oxygen
• Gain and loss of dissolved oxygen in water
• Sampling criteria—time of day and sample storage
• Testing methods
• Principles and procedures of the Winkler method
• Methods for regulating dissolved oxygen
• Quizzes to evaluate students’ knowledge
• Conclusion

Cost of the CD-Rom is $15.00 for teachers and $25.00 for the general public. To place an order, contact the Purdue University Media Distribution Center  and reference CD-AS-1.