StatCrunch (www.statcrunch.com) is an online data analysis package that can be used as a low cost alternative to traditional statistical software for introductory statistics courses. StatCrunch offers a wide array of numerical and graphical routines for analyzing data along with several features such as interactive graphics which can be used for pedagogical purposes. StatCrunch has a number of new features related to social data analysis where users may share data sets and associated analysis results via the StatCrunch site. Users may also interact via online discussions related to shared items. This manuscript provides a brief description of the mechanics of uploading and sharing information via the StatCrunch site and then discusses some of the potential benefits that these social data analysis capabilities offer to both students and instructors.

Highway noise can mask vocal communication and natural sounds important to wildlife for mate attraction, social cohesion, predator avoidance, prey detection, navigation, and other basic behaviors. This acoustic interference can potentially result in the reduced ability of individuals to acquire mates successfully, reproduce, raise young, and avoid predation. Because different species have evolved unique vocal repertoires, they are differentially susceptible to the masking effects of highway noise. No single noise-level criteria can be used to accurately define impact thresholds for all species. Here we show the utility of using bioacoustic profiles of bird vocal signals to identify and describe the range and variability of acoustic-masking thresholds. Variation in noise load, source amplitude, and signal frequency are modeled to illustrate the dynamic nature of each species’ critical acoustic space.