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| Physics--Teach To Learn. This program uses computer simulations of the most difficult to teach concepts in physics to supplement the entire program of instruction in high school physics. |
Audience Approved by PEP/JDRP for 12th grade physics students.
Description The Physics--Teach To Learn program provides teachers and students with instructional materials and processes that facilitate the exploration and illustration of physical events which are frequently misunderstood by students and difficult for the teacher to illustrate in the classroom. The program then tests the students' understanding and ability to make application of the physics concepts underlying those events.
The program's 23 instructional modules, each with teacher-controlled computer simulations and supporting curriculum materials, were developed by a committee of Los Angeles Unified School District master physics teachers with university support. They were designed to provide students with fundamental and qualitative understanding of physical events in selected topic areas. The computer simulations require the learner to make a judgment about a physical event. This judgment, based upon learner experience and/or observation, often reveals misconceptions based upon defective logic. After the initial judgment (pretest), the teacher then utilizes the computer simulation(s) to lead the student through the steps of exploration, development, and application. By using this step-by-step method, the teacher is best able to guide the correction of student misconceptions about the physical events under consideration. After this process has been completed, the student takes a formal paper/pencil posttest. Each topic is accompanied by extensive written curriculum material designed to enhance the teacher's ability to present the key concepts. The program also enables the teacher to have the computer print any screen display, both text and graphics, to generate additional student activity materials.
The Physics--Teach To Learn program meets National Goal for Education 5 by strengthening science education and increasing the number of students who complete high school physics.
Evidence of Effectiveness A "one group/pre-post" design was used to measure changes stemming from the intervention of the Physics--Teach To Learn program. The results provided compelling evidence that the program consistently influenced students' interest in and understanding of physics concepts.
Requirements The instructional modules that were developed by the Physics--Teach To Learn program were designed to be adaptable to any course approach and compatible with any textbook. The materials for the 23 content modules in the program's curriculum package have been assembled to facilitate dissemination and implementation. The package includes 5.25 inch computer disks which are designed only for use with the Apple IIc, IIe, and IIGS, a graphics printer, and a monitor. This software can also be run on an Apple IIc+ computer equipped with an external 5.25 inch drive. For classroom use, a 19-inch (or larger) television is recommended to display the simulations. No prior computer experience is necessary to effectively use the program's computer software or curriculum materials. Experienced physics teachers can be trained in the philosophy, content, and use of the modules in one day. It is recommended that new and/or "crossover" teachers have access to two days of training.
Costs The Physics--Teach To Learn curriculum package is available for a cost of $325 plus shipping and handling. The program does not charge a training fee. Once the training has occurred and the package has been purchased, there are no other program costs to the user.
Services Awareness materials are available at no cost. Visitors are welcome by appointment at the program's demonstration sites. Program staff are available to conduct inservice training workshops. Training can be conducted at the program site or at sites selected by potential adopters or by NDN State Facilitators.
Developmental Funding: ECIA Chapter 2.
JDRP No. 86-16 (9/25/86)
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