This phenomenological study used PhET simulation, a free online application, to observe how students manipulate it to understand optics, an abstract topic in physics. Noting the lived experience of six (6) pre-service science major students for four (4) months, it was found that they were able to navigate the theoretical concepts in light waves, geometric optics, blackbody spectrum, bending of light, molecules of light, and color vision better than having it via the usual lecture-discussions or video presentations. There were technical difficulties encountered along the way—especially in terms of maneuverability, connectivity, and gadget capacity—but when these were eventually managed, they were able to go through the process of manipulating variables in the simulation more instinctively. According to the participants, the use of graphics and intuitive user controls in PhET simulation made learning optics more fun, contextualized, relatable, borderless, and scientific for them.

Authors:
Herman Lagon, Iloilo State University of Fisheries Science and Technology, Philippines

About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Herman M. Lagon is a physics-math faculty and izn director of ISUFST, Ph. He' a Ph.D. in educational leadership at USLS-Bacolod, Ph. he holds a license as a civil engineer and has a background as a physical science teacher and guidance counselor.

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/herman-lagon-67669045/

Connect on ResearchGate
https://www.researchgate.net/scientific-contributions/Herman-M-Lagon-2239493219

Additional website of interest
https://journals.e-palli.com/home/index.php/ajet/article/view/679

See this presentation on the full schedule – Thursday Schedule

Bookmark