Project Activities
The team is developing 28 virtual labs, including topics such as vector addition of forces, uniform motion, kinematics, Newton's Second Law, and conservation of energy. In order to assess feasibility and usability, and to gather preliminary data on potential efficacy of the intervention, a randomized trial will be conducted in 21 physics classrooms at three universities. Treatment Group 1 classes will use the technology as a supplement to actual hands-on laboratory activities. Treatment Group 2 classes will use only the virtual laboratories. A set of comparison classes will use only the hands-on equipment. Analyses will examine students' performance on a standardized physics exam before and after a semester long course.
People and institutions involved
IES program contact(s)
Products and publications
Product Video Demonstration: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xN1UQX7TqzU
Products: The final product will be a set of virtual labs that are accessible online. Each lab will include information and activities to be completed before and after the virtual laboratory activities are completed, along with a virtual reality simulation, video, and printable lab report. The product is intended to provide students and faculty with a realistic supplement to, or replacement of, hands-on experimental labs.
Questions about this project?
To answer additional questions about this project or provide feedback, please contact the program officer.
