Middle level ICT integration

 


Middle level of ICT integration

Today we are oriented with PhET simulation and how to use it in teaching and learning process.  In the 21st century education and leaning, PhET simulation play powerful tools, offering hands-on learning and experiences across various subject. PhET simulation stand for physics education technology and it is online interactive simulation that cover wide range of subject such as physics, chemistry, mathematics and lot others. these simulation allow user to manipulate variables and observe the effect in a virtual learning environment. For instance, figure 1.1 is one of the example of PhET simulation in mathematics and science. 



                                                               





PhET simulation serve as educational tools in classroom and self learning environment. Teacher can use these simulation so that students can grasp complex scientific concept and mathematical concepts through hands-on learning. They can also design specific scenarios, set parameters, and create challenges that align with curriculum objectives, making learning more personalized and engaging. Students can use PhET simulation to explore the concept which is difficult to visualize or understand  through traditional method of teaching. For instance, they can experiment with chemical reaction or gravitational force for deeper understanding. And I think PhET simulation is very convenient or reliable as students or teacher can conduct virtual experiment from anywhere with an internet connection, which enhance their learning experiences.

It promote active learning, help learners to visually represent or breakdown abstract and  complex mathematical in the form of concept PhET simulation. And there is no risk associated with conducting experiment that involved hazardous materials or situation so it ensure safe learning environment for learners. Although there is more benefit but there are some limitation associated with it. Accessing PhET simulation requires a stable internet connection and compatible devices such as computer or tablet. In learning environment with limited internet access or outdated technology, learners may face difficulty in utilizing the PhET simulation. And there will be biggest chance that learners overly depend on simulation and neglect to the hands-on practical experiences. So balancing between virtual simulations with real-life experiment is important. 

So PhET simulation fall under middle level of ICT integration as they combine interactively, visual representation, curriculum alignment , and a supplemental role in teaching and learning. They represent a balanced approach to leveraging in education, supporting and enhancing traditional instructional practices rather than completely replacing them. 

Lesson plan on PhET simulation

Subject: Mathematics

Topic: Probability

Grade: 6

Duration: 55 minutes

Prior Knowledge

  • Basic understanding of fractions
  • Basic understanding of percentages
  • Familiarity with simple events (e.g., flipping a coin, rolling a die)

Lesson Objectives

By the end of the lesson, students will be able to 
  • understand the concept of probability as a measure of likelihood.
  • learn how to calculate the probability of simple events.
  • use the PhET simulation to visualize and experiment with probability.

Materials

  • Computer with internet access
  • PhET Simulation: "Plinko Probability"
  • Whiteboard
  • Handouts with probability exercises

Lesson Introduction (10 minutes)

  1. Begin with a simple question to engage students. Ask, "What are the chances of flipping a coin and it landing on heads?" Discuss their answers briefly.
  2. Explain that today they will learn about probability and how to calculate it using a fun simulation called "Plinko."
  3. Review fractions and percentages as these will provoke their understanding in probability. Use simple examples like dividing a pizza into slices and expressing the number of slices someone might get.

Lesson Development (40 minutes)

  • Introduce probability as the likelihood or chance of an event happening. It is expressed as a fraction, a decimal, or a percentage. Use simple examples to show how to calculate probability. For instance, the probability of rolling a 3 on a six-sided die is 1/6.
  • Introduction to PhET Simulation: Guide students to the PhET "Plinko Probability" simulation.
Instruction

  1. use google search engine and type in "PhET simulation" in the search text box.
  2. Allow students to explore the simulation for a few minutes to get familiar with how it works.
  3. click on "all sims-PhET simulation".
  4. then select "Plinko Probability".
  5. click the "play" button and wait for few second (time to download the application).
  6. select "intro".
  7. from three choices, select which say "100 balls" and observe where does ball fall into (10 containers). Record it in the worksheet.

Guided Practice with Simulation

  • Demonstrate how to set up experiments in the simulation. For example, show how to drop multiple balls and observe the distribution of outcomes.
  • Have students perform their own experiments by dropping a set number of balls (e.g., 100 balls) and recording the outcomes.
  • Guide students through calculating the experimental probability based on their simulation results. Compare it with theoretical probability.
  • Discuss the results as a class. Ask questions like, "Did the experimental probability match the theoretical probability? Why or why not?"
Follow up activity
After completing, ask random students to present his/her work to the class. At the same time, students can find their respective partner and compare their work, giving feedback and comment each others. 

Assessment 
Go through the following worksheet on PhET simulation.

Use following worksheet during the lesson.

Containers

No. of balls fall into container

Experimental probability

Theoretical probability

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Lesson Closure (5 minutes)
  • Summarize the main points covered in the lesson: definition of probability, how to calculate it, and how simulations can help us understand probability.
  • Ask students to reflect on what they learned about probability. Have a few students share their thoughts.
  • Open the floor for any final questions. Clarify any misunderstandings before concluding the lesson.

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