arXiv subjects

Loo Kang Wee

Publications and source records attributed to Loo Kang Wee.

34 records · Page 2Linked to original sources

arXiv2015

Use of Blended Approach in the Learning of Electromagnetic Induction

This paper traces the importance of pedagogical content knowledge in the digital age to prepare today students for the 21st century. It highlights the need for ICT-based pedagogical models that are grounded in both the learning theories of constructivism and connectivism. One such suitable ICT-based pedagogical model is the TSOI Hybrid Learning Model. By means of a physics blended learning exemplar based on the TSOI Hybrid Learning Model, this paper argues for the use of blended learning approach as the way forward for 21st century teaching.

physics.ed-ph↗

arXiv2015

Performance Task using Video Analysis and Modelling to promote K12 eight practices of science

We will share on the use of Tracker as a pedagogical tool in the effective learning and teaching of physics performance tasks taking root in some Singapore Grade 9 (Secondary 3) schools. We discuss the pedagogical use of Tracker help students to be like scientists in these 6 to 10 weeks where all Grade 9 students are to conduct a personal video analysis and where appropriate the 8 practices of sciences (1. ask question, 2. use models, 3. Plan and carry out investigation, 4. Analyse and interpret data, 5. Using mathematical and computational thinking, 6. Construct explanations, 7. Discuss from evidence and 8. Communicating information). We will situate our sharing on actual students work and discuss how tracker could be an effective pedagogical tool. Initial research findings suggest that allowing learners conduct performance task using Tracker, a free open source video analysis and modelling tool, guided by the 8 practices of sciences and engineering, could be an innovative and effective way to mentor authentic and meaningful learning.

physics.ed-ph↗

arXiv2014

NRF2011-EDU001-EL001 EduLab Project Scaling-up Reflections on Using Open Source Physics

eduLab (MOE, 2012b) is a key programme under the third MasterPlan for ICT in Education (mp3) where teachers with good ideas for an ICT-enhanced lesson or curriculum (learning with computer models through inquiry, example PhET (PhET, 2011) can come together to collaborate. eduLab aims to support teachers to develop, prototype and test-bed their lesson ideas (journey in 2012-2014) while ensuring that the results, in the form of complete lesson packages (see http://edulab.moe.edu.sg/edulab-programmes/existing-projects third project), are scalable across schools to benefit the wider teaching community. Our models and lessons are downloadable here http://weelookang.blogspot.sg/2013/03/moe-excel-fest-2013-scaling.html We have collaborated with namely Professor Francisco Esquembre, Professor Fu-Kwun Hwang and Wolfgang Christian and created Open Source Computer Models on the topic of 1 Dimensional Collision (Loo Kang Wee, 2012b), Falling Magnet in Coil, Ripple Tank (Duffy, 2010; G. H. Goh et al., 2012; Ong, Ng, Goh, & Wee, 2012; Ong, Ng, Teo, et al., 2012; Loo Kang Wee, Duffy, Aguirregabiria, & Hwang, 2012), Superposition Waves, 2 Mass Gravity, Earth-Moon Gravity, Kepler's Solar System and Geostationary Orbit (J. Goh & Wee, 2011; Loo Kang Wee, 2012a; Loo Kang Wee & Esquembre, 2010; Loo Kang Wee & Goh, 2013) for enriching interactive engagement (Christian & Belloni, 2000; Hake, 1998) previously lacking in our teaching practices, but we argue is essential for deepening learning (L.K. Wee & Lye, 2012) by doing. We hope to share some of the scaling-up learning points from ideas (researchers Francisco Fu-Kwun and Wolfgang) to practice (teachers in RVHS, YJC, IJC, AJC and SRJC) supported by specialist (ETD), contextualized and made possible through this edulab funding initiative by National Research Fund, managed by National Institute of Education (NIE) and Ministry of Education, Singapore.

physics.ed-ph↗

arXiv2014

Design, Customization and Implementation of Energy Simulation with 5E Model in Elementary Classroom

Science simulations are popular among educators as such simulations afford for multiple visual representation and interactivity. Despite the popularity and abundance on the internet, our literature review suggested little research has been conducted on the use of simulation in elementary school. Thus, an exploratory pilot case study was conducted to address this research gap. In this study, an open source energy simulation was remixed for use in elementary school targeted at the Grade 4 & 5 students as an after-school enrichment program. We proposed 3 stages: design, customization and implementation, to provide useful insights with the aim to allow other educators to conduct their own remixed simulation lessons. The simulation design principles (e.g., learning outcomes and colour coding) with the corresponding TPACK construct that emerged from the design and customization stages were reported. Such simulation design principles would be useful to interested educators and researchers who wish to adapt and use simulation or teach others how to remix simulation. Data from the multiple sources (e.g., field observations, surveys, design notes and existing simulations) indicated that students enjoyed learning with the remixed energy simulation.

physics.ed-ph↗

arXiv2014

Open Educational Resources from Performance Task using Video Analysis and Modeling - Tracker and K12 science education framework

This invited paper discusses why Physics performance task by grade 9 students in Singapore is worth participating in for two reasons; 1) the video analysis and modeling are open access, licensed creative commons attribution for advancing open educational resources in the world and 2) allows students to be like physicists, where the K12 science education framework is adopted. Personal reflections on how physics education can be made more meaningful in particular Practice 1: Ask Questions, Practice 2: Use Models and Practice 5: Mathematical and Computational Thinking using Video Modeling supported by evidence based data from video analysis. This paper hopes to spur fellow colleagues to look into open education initiatives such as our Singapore Tracker community open educational resources curate on http://weelookang.blogspot.sg/p/physics-applets-virtual-lab.html as well as digital libraries http://iwant2study.org/lookangejss/ directly accessible through Tracker 4.86, EJSS reader app on Android and iOS and EJS 5.0 authoring toolkit for computer models in Easy Java Simulation-Open Source Physics Project. Recorded session: http://youtu.be/XgPIp6klPyA

physics.ed-ph↗

arXiv2014

Easy Java Simulation, an innovative tool for teachers as designers of gravity-physics computer models

This paper is on customization of computer models using the Easy Java Simulation authoring toolkit for the Singapore syllabus, based on real astronomical data, supported with literature reviewed researched pedagogical features. These 4 new computer models serves to support the enactment of scientific work that are inquiry centric and evidence based that are more likely to promote enjoyment and inspire imagination having experienced gravity-physics than traditional pen and paper problem solving. Pilot research suggests students enactment of investigative learning like scientist is now possible, where gravity-physics comes alive.

physics.ed-ph↗

arXiv2013

Addressing learning difficulties in Newtons 1st and 3rd Laws through problem based inquiry using Easy Java Simulation

We develop an Easy Java Simulation (EJS) model for students to visualize Newtons 1st and 3rd laws, using frictionless constant motion equation and a spring collision equation during impact. Using Physics by Inquiry instructional (PbI) strategy, the simulation and its problem based inquiry worksheet aim to enhance learning of these two Newtonian concepts. We report results from Experimental (N=62 students) and Control (N=67) Groups in 11 multiple choice questions pre and post tests, conducted by three teachers in the school. Results suggest, at 95 percent confidence level, significant improvement for concept of Newtons 1st Law while not so for Newtons 3rd Law. A Focus Group Discussion revealed students confirming the usefulness of the EJS model in visualizing the 1st Law while not so much for the 3rd Law. We speculate the design ideas for constant velocity motion in the computer model coupled with the PbI worksheet did allow for making sense and experiencing of the 1st Law, where traditional pen-paper representations could not. We have improved the features for the action-reaction contact forces visualization associated with the 3rd Law and we hope other teachers will find the simulation useful for their classes and further customize them to benefit all mankind, becoming citizens for the world.

physics.ed-ph↗

arXiv2013

Open Source Physics

Open Source Physics (Brown, 2012; Christian, 2010; Esquembre, 2012; Hwang, 2010) empowers teachers and students to create and use these free tools with the associated intellectual property rights given to customise (Wee & Mak, 2009) the computer models/tools to suit their teaching and learning needs. Open Source Physics (OSP) focuses on design of computer models, such as Easy Java Simulations (EJS) and the use of video modeling and analysis (Tracker). They allow students to investigate, explore and analyse data which is either real or simulated. The OSP approach helps users overcome barriers in creating, using and scaling up meaningful ICT use in education. In Singapore, teachers and students have created or customised existing computer models to design and re-purpose EJS models to suit their context and learning needs. Tracker tools allow students to analyse different aspects of a physics phenomena to deepen their understanding of abstract physics concepts. Using Tracker, students record the motion of objects and create their own models to test their ideas in the study of kinematics. Essentially, the two main pedagogical approaches (Figure 1) used in OSP are: Guided Inquiry investigating modeled phenomena(EJS) video analysis (Tracker) Constructionism learning by making new models(EJS) video modeling(Tracker)

physics.ed-ph↗

arXiv2013

Enabling Gravity Physics by Inquiry using Easy Java Simulation

Studying physics of very large scale like the solar system is difficult in real life, using telescope on clear skies over years. We are probably a world first to create four well designed gravity computer models to serve as powerful pedagogical tools for students active inquiry, based on real data. These models are syllabus customized, free and rapidly prototyped with Open Source Physics researchers educators. Pilot study suggests students enactment of investigative learning like scientist is now possible, where gravity-physics comes alive. We are still continually improving the features of these computer models through feedback from students and teachers and the models can be downloaded from the internet. We hope more teachers will find the simulations useful in their own classes and further customized them so that others will find them more intelligible and contribute back to the wider educational fraternity to benefit all humankind.

physics.ed-ph↗

arXiv2012

Open Source Energy Simulation for Elementary School

With the interactivity and multiple representation features, computer simulations lend itself to the guided inquiry learning. However, these simulations are usually designed for post-elementary students. Thus, the aim of this study is to investigate how the use of guided inquiry approach with customized energy simulation can improve students' understanding of this topic. In this ongoing research, the case study is adopted. In the first phase of the study, we have modified open source energy simulation based on principles for reducing extraneous processing, existing energy simulation and guided inquiry approach. The modified simulation is sent to teachers for evaluation and the feedback is encouraging. In the next phase of the study, the guided inquiry lesson package involving the energy simulation would be designed and deployed in an elementary classroom. Multiple data sources would be collected to seek a deeper understanding on how this learning package can possibly impact students' understanding of the physics concepts.

physics.ed-ph↗

arXiv2012

Physics Educators as Designers of Simulation using Easy Java Simulation (Ejs) Part 2*

To deepen do-it-yourself (DIY) technology in the physics classroom, we seek to highlight the Open Source Physics (OSP) community of educators that engage, enable and empower teachers as learners so that we create DIY technology tools-simulation for inquiry learning. We learn through Web 2 online collaborative means to develop simulations together with reputable physicists through the open source digital library. By examining the open source codes of the simulation through the Easy Java Simulation (EJS) toolkit, we are able make sense of the physics from the computational models created by practicing physicists. We will share newer (2010-present) simulations that we have remixed from existing library of simulations models into suitable learning environments for inquiry of physics. We hope other teachers would find these simulations useful and remix them that suit their own context and contribute back to benefit all humankind, becoming citizens for the world. Abstract Footnotes: website prior to the meeting http://www.phy.ntnu.edu.tw/ntnujava/index.php?board=28.0 *Extension of Wee, L. K. (2010, 20 July). Physics Educators as Designers of Simulation using Easy Java Simulation (EJS). Paper presented at the American Association of Physics Teachers National Meeting Conference: 2010 Summer Meeting, Portland, Oregon, USA.

physics.ed-ph↗

arXiv2012

Physics Educators as Designers of Simulation using Easy Java Simulation (Ejs)

To deepen the professional practice of physics educators, I seek to highlight the Open Source Physics (OSP) and Easy Java Simulation (Ejs or EJS) community of educators that engage, enable and empower teachers as learners so that we can be leaders in our teaching practice. I learned through Web 2 online collaborative means to develop simulations together with reputable physicists through the open source digital library. By examining the open source codes of the simulation through the Ejs toolkit, I was able to examine and make sense of the physics from the computational models created by practicing physicists. I will share some of the simulations that I have remixed from existing library of simulations models into suitable learning environments for inquiry of physics. http://www.phy.ntnu.edu.tw/ntnujava/index.php?board=28.0

physics.ed-ph↗

arXiv2012

Designing Open Source Computer Models for Physics by Inquiry using Easy Java Simulation

The Open Source Physics community has created hundreds of physics computer models (Wolfgang Christian, Esquembre, & Barbato, 2011; F. K. Hwang & Esquembre, 2003) which are mathematical computation representations of real-life Physics phenomenon. Since the source codes are available and can be modified for redistribution licensed Creative Commons Attribution or other compatible copyrights like GNU General Public License (GPL), educators can customize (Wee & Mak, 2009) these models for more targeted productive (Wee, 2012) activities for their classroom teaching and redistribute them to benefit all humankind. In this interactive event, we will share the basics of using the free authoring toolkit called Easy Java Simulation (W. Christian, Esquembre, & Mason, 2010; Esquembre, 2010) so that participants can modify the open source computer models for their own learning and teaching needs. These computer models has the potential to provide the experience and context, essential for deepening students conceptual understanding of Physics through student centred guided inquiry approach (Eick, Meadows, & Balkcom, 2005; Jackson, Dukerich, & Hestenes, 2008; McDermott, Shaffer, & Rosenquist, 1995; Wee, Lee, & Goh, 2011).

physics.ed-ph↗

arXiv2012

Leveraging on Easy Java Simulation tool and open source computer simulation library to create interactive digital media for mass customization of high school physics curriculum

This paper highlights the diverse possibilities in the rich community of educators from the Conceptual Learning of Science (CoLoS) and Open Source Physics (OSP) movement to engage, enable and empower educators and students, to create interactive digital media through computer modeling. This concept revolves around a paradigmatic shift towards participatory learning through immersive computer modeling, as opposed to using technology for information transmission. We aim to engage high school educators to professionally develop themselves by creating and customizing simulations possible through Easy Java Simulation (Ejs) and its learning community. Ejs allows educators to be designers of learning environments through modifying source codes of the simulation. Educators can conduct lessons with students' using these interactive digital simulations and rapidly enhance the simulation through changing the source codes personally. Ejs toolkit, its library of simulations and growing community contributed simulation codes, in a Web 2.0 environment, potentially allows for rapid proliferation of mass customized virtual laboratories simulation with educators as designers of learning environment. Our journey of remixing this simulation created an educator customized interactive digital media virtual laboratory for advancing learning physics by inquiry. The process of creating a simulation also has desirable pedagogical value that will be challenging to bring to high school students to learn by modeling.The impediments to using this method are discussed.

physics.ed-ph↗

arXiv2012

Video Analysis and Modeling Tool for Physics Education: A workshop for Redesigning Pedagogy

This workshop aims to demonstrate how the Tracker Video Analysis and Modeling Tool engages, enables and empowers teachers to be learners so that we can be leaders in our teaching practice. Through this workshop, the kinematics of a falling ball and a projectile motion are explored using video analysis and in the later video modeling. We hope to lead and inspire other teachers by facilitating their experiences with this ICT-enabled video modeling pedagogy (Brown, 2008) and free tool for facilitating students-centered active learning, thus motivate students to be more self-directed.

physics.ed-ph↗

arXiv2012

Learning with multiple representations: An example of a revision lesson in mechanics

We describe an example of learning with multiple representations in an A-level revision lesson on mechanics. The context of the problem involved the motion of a ball thrown vertically upwards in air and studying how the associated physical quantities changed during its flight. Different groups of students were assigned to look at the ball's motion using various representations: motion diagrams, vector diagrams, free-body diagrams, verbal description, equations and graphs, drawn against time as well as against displacement. Overall, feedback from students about the lesson was positive. We further discuss the benefits of using computer simulation to support and extend student learning.

physics.ed-ph↗