Interactive simulations are emerging as powerful educational tools that support student learning through scientist-like exploration and experimentation. The PhET Interactive Simulations project has developed over 30 simulations for teaching and learning chemistry. In this study, we investigate what students do when using a PhET simulation with no explicit use instructions in a large lecture environment. From analysis of mouse click data, audio recordings, and clicker question responses, we found that, during 10-minutes of exploration with a PhET simulation, students: interacted with the majority of features available; had content-focused discussions with intermittent off-topic conversations; and found use of the simulation easy and productive for learning. Results suggest possibilities for increasing the amount of effective group work in large classes using interactive simulations with minimal instructions.

Interactive simulation use by small groups in a large lecture setting: Student use and perceptions

245th National Meeting (2013)

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