Activity Design with PhET Simulations for STEM Education

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/activity-design-with-phet-simulations-for-stem-education

Introduction

### Course Review: Activity Design with PhET Simulations for STEM Education #### Overview The **Activity Design with PhET Simulations for STEM Education** course on Coursera is a must for educators and aspiring teachers looking to enhance their approach to teaching science and mathematics. Created by the University of Colorado Boulder, the course leverages the engaging and interactive simulations offered by PhET Interactive Simulations (https://phet.colorado.edu/), which provides a wide array of fun, research-based, and free resources tailored for educational settings. With an emphasis on educational effectiveness, this course not only introduces participants to valuable resources but equips them with the skill set to create impactful learning experiences for their students. #### Course Structure The course is structured into five comprehensive modules, each focusing on different aspects of utilizing PhET simulations effectively in the classroom: - **Module 1: Introduction: Students Interacting With Simulations** In this opening module, participants will delve into effective strategies for implementing simulation-anchored Activity Sheets. It emphasizes how these resources can be best employed in various learning scenarios—whether students are working independently or in groups. - **Module 2: Revisiting PhET Activities** This module distinguishes between Activities and Activity Sheets, prompting participants to select and analyze existing Activity Sheets. This deep dive encourages users to align these sheets with the PhET Equity Framework, bolstering their focus on inclusivity and accessibility in learning. - **Module 3: Challenge Prompts** Here, participants are introduced to the essence of high-quality student activity sheets—Challenge Prompts. This module focuses on transforming traditional teacher-directed instructions into open-ended challenges that foster active learning, promoting critical thinking among students. - **Module 4: Activity Sheets and Lessons** Building upon previous knowledge, this module guides participants through creating their own Activity Sheets. It covers the integral components of lesson planning, ensuring that learners understand how to weave simulations seamlessly into comprehensive teaching strategies. - **Module 5: Assignment Submissions and Conclusions** The final module culminates in a hands-on assignment where participants submit their own crafted Activity Sheet. This practical application reinforces learning and allows participants to receive constructive feedback, further honing their skills. #### Course Recommendations This course is highly recommended for: - **Educators and Teachers:** If you’re looking to incorporate technology and innovative teaching methods into your curriculum, this course provides essential tools and frameworks to do so effectively. - **STEM Program Coordinators:** Those who oversee STEM curriculums or programs can greatly benefit from understanding how to implement engaging simulations that foster deeper learning. - **Pre-service Teachers:** Aspiring teachers will find the course particularly beneficial for gaining practical experience and skills in creating interactive lesson plans rooted in research and best practices. - **Education Enthusiasts:** If you have a passion for educational technology and innovative teaching methods, this course will expand your repertoire of instructional strategies. #### Conclusion In a world increasingly driven by technology, the **Activity Design with PhET Simulations for STEM Education** course stands out as an exceptional resource that not only enhances teaching methodologies but also enriches the learning experience of students in STEM subjects. The content is thorough, the modules are well-structured, and the interactive nature of PhET simulations makes it an exciting and invaluable course for anyone involved in education. Embarking on this course will not only prepare educators to engage their students actively but also contribute to a more dynamic and enjoyable learning environment. If you’re seeking to transform your teaching practice with cutting-edge educational tools, look no further—enroll today and unleash the potential of simulation-based learning!

Syllabus

Module 1: Introduction: Students Interacting With Simulations

In this module, we will review strategies for when to use simulation-anchored Activity Sheets for science and math classes that students can use as they work independently or in small groups while they have direct access to simulations on their own device.

In this module, you will explore the difference between Activities and Activity Sheets. You will also select a pre-existing Activity Sheet contributed by other PhET users and analyze it to improve its alignment with the PhET Equity Framework.

This module will introduce you to the core of a high-quality student activity sheet–Challenge Prompts. Using examples from various subjects, you will revise teacher-directed instructions to produce open-ended challenges that better promote Active Learning.

In this module, you will learn how to build an Activity Sheet, considering various parts of a lesson.

In this module, you will submit an Activity Sheet of your own!