Computer Simulation Development for Simulation-Based Learning in High-School Physics

Abstract

COVID-19 has affected how teaching is carried out at all levels of education, including in high school. Teachers must adapt their teaching methods since students can no longer access school’s facilities. This became a concern, especially for subjects that require students to conduct experiments such as Physics. This paper is aimed to design and develop a computer simulation that can be used for simulation-based learning in high-school Physics, particularly on the topic of Newton’s law. The topics covered are constant acceleration linear motion, fraction, and force. Through literature studies, the features of the simulation were determined. The implemented features are interactivity through changeable parameters and immediate visual feedback, three graphics to show the acceleration, velocity, and position of an object, and a Comma-Separated Values (CSV) file that contains the detailed calculations of the simulation for debriefing. The simulation has been developed and evaluated through an online group discussion with two high school Physics teachers. Improvement has been made according to the discussion.