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Abstract Title: Student learning outcomes with hybrid computer simulations and hands-on labs
Abstract: Computer simulations for physics labs may be combined with hands-on lab equipment to boost student understanding and make labs more accessible. Hybrid labs of HTML5-based computer simulations and hands-on lab equipment for topics in mechanics were investigated in a large, algebra-based, studio physics course for life science students at a private, research-intensive institution. Computer simulations were combined with hands-on equipment and compared to traditional hands-on labs alone using an A/B testing protocol. Learning outcomes were measured for the specific topic of momentum conservation by comparing student scores on post-lab exercises, related quiz and exam questions, and a subset of questions on the Energy and Momentum Conceptual Survey (EMCS) administered before and after instruction for both groups. We present our findings of this study and discuss the larger implications of the use of simulations in physics education.
Abstract Type: Contributed Poster Presentation
Session Time: Poster Session I
Poster Number: 1.B2
Contributed Paper Record: Contributed Paper Information
Contributed Paper Download: Download Contributed Paper

Author/Organizer Information

Primary Contact: Sheila Sagear
Department of Physics, Boston University
Boston, MA 02215
Co-Author(s)
and Co-Presenter(s)
Emily Allen
Science Department, The Governor's Academy, Byfield, MA 01922
Department of Physics, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215

Andrew Duffy
Department of Physics, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215
Wheelock College of Education, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215

Manher Jariwala
Department of Physics, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215
Wheelock College of Education, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215