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

Juraj Slabeycius; Danie Polcin; Sofia Berezina

doi:10.31686/ijier.vol2.iss11.275

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.

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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