Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/activity-design-with-phet-simulations-for-stem-education
As educators, we’re constantly seeking innovative ways to make STEM subjects more engaging and accessible for our students. The advent of interactive simulations has been a game-changer, and PhET Interactive Simulations, a project of the University of Colorado Boulder, stands out as a leader in this space. Their research-based, free, and open-source simulations are a treasure trove for educators across all levels. Recognizing the power of these tools, I recently enrolled in Coursera’s “Activity Design with PhET Simulations for STEM Education” course, and I’m eager to share my experience and recommendations.
This course is designed to equip educators with the skills to create effective activity sheets that leverage the full potential of PhET simulations. It’s structured logically, guiding participants through a comprehensive learning journey.
**Module 1: Introduction: Students Interacting With Simulations** kicked off the course by emphasizing the strategic use of simulation-anchored activity sheets. It highlighted how these sheets can facilitate independent or small-group learning, especially when students have direct access to simulations on their own devices. This foundational module set the stage for understanding how to integrate simulations seamlessly into classroom activities.
**Module 2: Revisiting PhET Activities** delved into the nuances between ‘Activities’ and ‘Activity Sheets.’ A key takeaway was the critical analysis of pre-existing activity sheets, with a focus on aligning them with the PhET Equity Framework. This module encouraged a thoughtful approach to resource selection and adaptation, ensuring inclusivity and effectiveness.
**Module 3: Challenge Prompts** introduced what the course identifies as the ‘core of a high-quality student activity sheet’ – challenge prompts. Moving beyond teacher-directed instructions, this module taught us to craft open-ended challenges that foster active learning and critical thinking. The examples provided were diverse and inspiring, showcasing how to transform passive exploration into dynamic problem-solving.
**Module 4: Activity Sheets and Lessons** provided practical guidance on building an activity sheet, considering its place within a broader lesson plan. This module connected the creation of activity sheets to the overall pedagogical goals, ensuring that the simulations and accompanying activities serve a clear educational purpose.
**Module 5: Assignment Submissions and Conclusions** was the culmination of the learning process. Here, participants had the opportunity to apply everything they had learned by submitting their own custom-designed activity sheet. This hands-on experience was invaluable for solidifying understanding and building confidence.
**Recommendation:**
I wholeheartedly recommend “Activity Design with PhET Simulations for STEM Education” to any educator looking to enhance their STEM teaching. Whether you’re new to PhET simulations or have been using them for years, this course offers practical strategies and a structured approach to designing impactful learning experiences. It’s particularly beneficial for teachers who want to move beyond simply showing simulations to actively engaging students with them. The course is well-paced, the content is relevant, and the practical application through creating your own activity sheet makes it a highly rewarding experience.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/activity-design-with-phet-simulations-for-stem-education