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COMMUNITY:
Project Descriptions

Physics Education Technology Project (PhET)

June 1, 2005 - May 31, 2009 | Media and Technology, Informal/Formal Connections

This project continues the development, testing, and use of a series of web-based computer simulations for improving the teaching and learning of physics. It expands the number of simulations in physics, creates new simulations addressing introductory chemistry, creates simulations addressing the conceptual understanding of equations in solving science problems, and further refines some existing simulations. It increases, by approximately 35, the 35 online interactive simulations that have been developed for teaching physics. The project produces and widely disseminates on-line supporting materials for use in undergraduate and high school science courses. The supporting materials include: guided-discovery, tutorial worksheets; a list of learning goals; materials to support in-lecture, homework, and laboratory use; assessment instruments; and other user-contributed materials. The simulations being introduced and their effectiveness are being evaluated in at least eight additional courses in physics and chemistry at the University of Colorado and a diverse set of partner institutions. The materials are being extensively tested to ensure that they are easy to use and effective at promoting deep conceptual understanding and positive attitudes about science and technology.

Funders

NSF
Award Number: 0442841
Funding Amount: 443000

TEAM MEMBERS

  • Carl Wieman
    Principal Investigator
    University of Colorado, Boulder
  • Noah Finkelstein
    Co-Principal Investigator
    University of Colorado, Boulder
  • Katherine Perkins
    Co-Principal Investigator
    University of Colorado, Boulder
  • Discipline: Computing and information science | Education and learning science | General STEM | Technology
    Audience: Youth/Teen (up to 17) | Undergraduate/Graduate Students | Educators/Teachers
    Environment Type: Media and Technology | Websites, Mobile Apps, and Online Media | Informal/Formal Connections | K-12 Programs

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