A study into the use of computer simulations to learn physics

Abstract

In the learning of physics, an in-depth understanding of the relationship between different physical quantities plays a critical role in letting students make sense of the key ideas and concepts. This is traditionally achieved by using diagrams and worked examples. With the availability of computer simulations, students can better study the relationship between physical quantities systemically and see the effects of change in real time.

In recent years, there has been an availability of free and economical software such as Algodoo and SIMPHY that allows users to easily create simulations on a computer. This presents new modes of learning for students.

This thesis presents an academic year-long project to investigate the freshmen Engineering Physics and Physics Majors students’ response to using the computer simulation software for learning with various computer simulations being incorporated in weekly lectures and tutorials. Intervention studies were done in two revision lectures and a series of Focus Group Discussion sessions after the closing of the first semester was conducted. Overall, students have expressed that computer simulations have help in their visualisation skills and felt positively about using the software for learning.