Integrating PhET Tools in Constructivist Physics Teaching Learning

Biju K*
Assistant Professor, Department of Education, School of Education & Training, Central University of Tamil Nadu, Thiruvaur, India.
Periodicity:January - March'2017
DOI : https://doi.org/10.26634/jet.13.4.12403

Abstract

Teaching learning is getting realigned itself with new tools and methods in the new educational scenario. ICT tools open up wide arena of opportunities to improve the teaching learning process focusing on higher order thinking and autonomy of the learners. TPACK model reemphasis on the importance of integration of the domain for the meaningful teaching learning processes. Introduction of technology is being done by the majority rather integrating meaningfully in the classroom. Research suggests that simply putting computers into schools is not enough to impact student learning. That said, specific applications of ICT can positively impact student knowledge, skills and attitudes, as well as teaching practices, school innovation, and community services (Kozma, 2005, p. 1). The major challenges faced by the teachers in general, physics teachers in particular are that of constructive integration of technology tools to improve the process of learning and its assessment. In fact, teachers are getting overwhelmed with the variety of tools in teaching physics. Contextualization of tools aligning with the constructivist objectives are not taken up seriously in Physics teaching and mostly just operating the tools are more focused. The present paper discusses about the integration of powerful PhET tools in teaching Physics at Secondary Level in line with the constructivist approach. The modes of integrating simulations, activities, worksheets related to PhET to improve the interactivity which leads to actively engaged classroom environment helping students to enhance higher order thinking skills and exploring Physics learning process. Assessment for learning also focused in order to make the teaching learning more meaningful and productive.

Keywords

Simulation, Physics Teaching, Interactive Learning, Assessment

How to Cite this Article?

Biju K. (2017). Integrating PhET Tools in Constructivist Physics Teaching Learning. i-manager’s Journal of Educational Technology, 13(4), 50-54. https://doi.org/10.26634/jet.13.4.12403

References

[1]. Adams, W.K., Reid, S., LeMaster, R., McKagan, S.B., Perkins, K.K., Dubson, M., and Wieman, C.E. (2008). “A Study of Educational Simulations Part I-Engagement and Learning”. Journal of Interactive Learning Research, Vol. 19, No. 3, pp. 397-419.
[2]. Bransford, J.D., Brown, A.L., and Cocking, R.R. (2004). How People Learn: Brain, Mind, Experience, and School. National Academy of Sciences.
[3]. Dani, D.E., and Koenig, K.M. (2008). “Technology and reform based science education”. Theory into Practice, Vol. 47, No.3, pp. 204–211.
[4]. Finkelstein, N., Adams, W., Keller, C., Perkins, K., and Wieman, C., (2006). “High-Tech Tools for Teaching Physics: The Physics Education Technology Project”. Journal of Online Learning and Teaching, Vol. 2, No. 3, pp. 109-121.
[7]. Lei, J., and Zhao, Y. (2007). “Technology uses and student achievement: A longitudinal study”. Computers and Education, Vol. 49, No. 2, pp. 284-296.
[11]. Songer, N.B. (2007). “Digital resources versus cognitive tools: A discussion of learning science with technology”. In S. K. Abell & N. G. Lederman (Eds.), Handbook of Research on Science Education, pp. 471-493. Mahwah, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum.
[12]. Wilensky, U. (2003). “Statistical mechanics for secondary school: The GasLab multi-agent modeling toolkit ”. International Journal of Computers for Mathematical Learning, Vol. 8, No. 1, pp. 1-41.
If you have access to this article please login to view the article or kindly login to purchase the article

Purchase Instant Access

Single Article

North Americas,UK,
Middle East,Europe
India Rest of world
USD EUR INR USD-ROW
Pdf 35 35 200 20
Online 35 35 200 15
Pdf & Online 35 35 400 25

Options for accessing this content:
  • If you would like institutional access to this content, please recommend the title to your librarian.
    Library Recommendation Form
  • If you already have i-manager's user account: Login above and proceed to purchase the article.
  • New Users: Please register, then proceed to purchase the article.