PhET

PhET Interactive Simulations http://phet.colorado.edu/

(1) Resources links and/or class examples:

PhET Interactive Simulations on YouTube

How to Run Simulations

Example Course Use High School [|Modern Physics] [|Physics of Everyday Life]

(2) SWOT:

a. Strengths
 * Free
 * 85 interactive simulations
 * Available in 40 different languages
 * Broad coverage (physics, quantum mechanics, biology, chemistry, earth science)
 * Limited text
 * Written in Java and Flash (do not necessarily need internet connection)
 * Broad range of applications and audiences
 * Interactive and Animated
 * Demonstrate what is invisible to the eyes through the use of graphics
 * Easy to manipulate (click-and-drag manipulations, sliders, and radio buttons)
 * Multiple linked representations (motion of the objects, graphs, number readouts, etc.)
 * Students can manipulate various factors
 * Simulate real world situations
 * Multiple representations
 * Balanced challenges
 * Common visualization
 * Research and development of PhET is supported by University of Colorado students and faculty members; extensively tested and evaluated
 * Workshop materials and face-to-face workshop opportunities available
 * Troubleshooting issues and solutions are available on line
 * Lesson and activity ideas are available for teachers

b. Weaknesses
 * Better than paper lab, but not provide direct hands-on experience
 * Does not provide an opportunity for students to analyze sources of error.
 * Does not reflect how real scientists work.

c. Opportunities
 * Students can “see” what is invisible (atoms, molecules, sound waves)
 * Can be used when resources are limited and cannot run real labs
 * When labs involve hazardous chemicals

d. Threats

(3) Ideas for the classroom:
 * Can be used for inquiry-based learning as long as teacher takes time to explain and familiarize students the features of simulation.
 * Problem-solving skills can be taught explicitly through the use of simulations

__ Reflections of PhET Simulations __ (Aaron M.)

During my teaching internship experience, I used several of the simulations found on the PhET website. These simulations are great for introducing a new concept, reinforcing specific topics, or some simulations can be designed to become an interactive lab activity. Though the simulations cannot replace true hands-on experiences, they can act as supplements to other activities. The lesson plans provided with each simulation are a good place to look for new ideas on how to incorporate particular simulations into a lesson. The students in my classrooms thoroughly enjoyed many of the simulations found on PhET, especially the AC Circuits and the Electric Field Hockey simulations. Many of these simulations are similar to other physics-engine games, like Angry Bird. Though some simulations are better than others, it would be difficult to not be able to find a good use for most of the simulations found on PhET.