Non-traditional Use of Computer Simulation “My Solar System” in Inquiry-based Teaching

Authors

  • Juraj Slabeycius Catholic University, Slovakia
  • Danie Polcin Catholic University, Slovakia
  • Sofia Berezina University of Zilina, Slovakia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31686/ijier.vol2.iss11.275

Abstract

Teaching method plays crucial role affecting students’ motivation to learn physics. There are many innovative strategies for teaching physics. One of them is inquiry-based teaching. Investigative approach in physics teaching is very effective tool that gives students the opportunity to try their self-procedures used by scientists in investigation of the real problems. The appropriate object of examination can be an interactive computer simulation. The simulation “My Solar System” developed in University of Colorado Boulder was used for this purpose. Students of grammar school were invited to examine this own "pocket universe". The program simulates movement of 2 – 4 gravitationally bound bodies. The students can measure position, velocity and mass of the bodies versus time. The paper describes step by step how to work with students. The students’ activities and obtained skills are described.

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Author Biographies

  • Juraj Slabeycius, Catholic University, Slovakia

    Faculty of Education

  • Danie Polcin, Catholic University, Slovakia

    Faculty of Education

  • Sofia Berezina, University of Zilina, Slovakia

    Dept. Physics

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Published

2014-11-01

How to Cite

Slabeycius, J., Polcin, D., & Berezina, S. (2014). Non-traditional Use of Computer Simulation “My Solar System” in Inquiry-based Teaching. International Journal for Innovation Education and Research, 2(11), 136-143. https://doi.org/10.31686/ijier.vol2.iss11.275