THE IMPACT OF DIGITAL SIMULATIONS IN PHYSICS TEACHING ON ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT AND LEARNING MOTIVATION
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18623/rvd.v23.5416Palabras clave:
Digital Simulations, Physics Education, Academic Achievement, Learning Motivation, Active LearningResumen
Physics Educators using Digital Simulation Tools in Physics Education. This study examines the impact of physics simulations on first year undergraduate students academic performance and motivation to learn. A quasi-experimental design was used with an experimental group (i.e. digital simulations in physics coursework) and genetic control (i.e. traditional instruction). Conceptual understanding and problem-solving performance in some domain of physics was measured through pre- and post-intervention tests; and in some studies motivation and attitudes of students in regard to moving from conceptual learning into problem solving were measured through surveys and interviews. Results showed that the experimental group had a significant improvement in their mean post-test scores and traditional approaches gave lower scores in physics post test, with the experimental group obtaining significantly higher mean scores than the control group, and there was also a significant difference towards students’ enthusiasm and interest compared to a traditional approach in learning physics. Further qualitative feedback uncovered that simulations were effective in providing concrete illustrations of abstract phenomena, making students more enthusiastic about the subject, and enhancing their confidence in solving physics problems. The results in this study highlight that interactive simulations can hold promise for both learning and motivational outcomes in the context of physics education. The implications of accompanied curriculum design and teacher training are discussed, and proposed directions for future studies, including the utilization of virtual reality, and the long-lasting effects of simulation-based learning on students' retention of physics principles are suggested.
Citas
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