20130806 Learning Series for ICT Mentors_Deepening Conceptual Understanding using Open Source Physics Tools

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http://weelookang.blogspot.sg/2013/03/ict-mentors-seminar-pre-seminar.html

Briefing Document: ICT Mentors' Learning Series on Open Source Physics Tools

1. Overview

This document summarizes the key information from the "20130806 Learning Series for ICT Mentors_Deepening Conceptual Understanding using Open Source Physics Tools" webpage. The event, held on August 6, 2013, was designed to equip ICT mentors with skills to use open-source physics tools, particularly Easy Java Simulations (EJS), to enhance conceptual understanding in physics education. The workshop aimed to move beyond passive consumption of knowledge towards a constructionist approach where teachers and students can create and modify simulations.

2. Key Themes and Concepts

Open Educational Resources (OER) and Open Source Physics (OSP): A central theme is the promotion and utilization of OER and OSP tools in education. The workshop is grounded in the idea that openly available resources can empower teachers and students by providing free, customizable, and accessible tools for learning and teaching physics. The document highlights the creative commons license of the materials. The document states, "open source is the new way to go for education especially with the advent of internet, as per MOOCs are the in thing internationally."
Deepening Conceptual Understanding: The primary goal of the workshop is to enhance the understanding of physics concepts using interactive simulations rather than just rote memorization or formula application. The workshop intends to move beyond basic demonstrations to more interactive and student-driven experiences. The stated objective is to "help students visualize and experience physics concepts" using these tools.
Constructionism: The workshop promotes a learning philosophy rooted in constructionism. Instead of passively receiving information, participants are encouraged to actively create, modify, and remix simulations. This promotes deeper learning and encourages students to become "creators of knowledge, instead of just consuming knowledge."
Easy Java Simulations (EJS): EJS is the primary software focus of the workshop. Participants learn to use the authoring toolkit to design simple physics models, download open-source codes, compile new models, and share their creations. The workshop is a hands-on introduction for participants to begin their journey of becoming creators/remixers of computer models for inquiry.
Inquiry-Based Learning: The use of customized models designed in the context of local needs can "engage interactively in meaningful play" and is "more likely to inspire the love for learning."
Teacher Empowerment: The workshop is intended to empower teachers to create their own customized teaching materials, rather than relying solely on existing resources. By understanding the tools, teachers can then modify and adjust simulations to meet their specific student's needs. The workshop aimed to "begin their journey to be creators/remixers of customized computer models for inquiry pedagogy enactment."
21st Century Skills: Participants were encouraged to share their creations and interact on online forums, reinforcing the 21st-century skill of collaborative learning and knowledge sharing. Posting to online forums is described as "practicing 21st century being."

3. Workshop Structure and Activities

The workshop followed a structured approach, including:

Pre-Workshop Preparation: Participants were encouraged to watch tutorial videos (flipped classroom approach) and explore existing resources on the OPAL forum and online before the workshop.
Hands-on Activities: The core of the workshop consisted of hands-on activities:
Activity 1 (Starter): Downloading and running EJS software and related Java components.
Activity 2 (Requester): Learning how to add features like sliders and graphs.
Activity 3 (Beginner): Creating simple simulations, such as a falling ball or a uniformly moving ball.
Activity 3.3 (New): Adding timer functions to existing models. "new activity to involve participants with an authentic task, remix by adding a timer function!!"
Activity 3.5: Building a simple spring mass model.
Activity 4 (Remixer): Browsing, searching, and modifying existing simulations from online repositories.
Activity 5 (Sharer): Registering, sharing, and uploading newly created models on an online platform.
Closing Discussions: Paper discussions relating to computer models for learning.

4. Key Facts and Details

Date: August 6, 2013, 1430 - 1730 (originally planned for June 24 but was cancelled due to #sghaze)
Venue: Academy of Singapore Teachers, 2 Malan Road, Singapore.
Target Audience: ICT Mentors
Software: Easy Java Simulation (EJS)
Pre-requisite: Basic knowledge of Java and need to have Java downloaded.
Organizers: ICT Mentors' Seminar Organizing Committee, with facilitators including Wee L.K., Lye S.Y., TEO_Kwee_Siang, and TAN_Boon_Haur.
Materials: Workshop resources (videos, files) were made available online through the OPAL forum and other websites linked in the source.
Licensing: All workshop materials are under Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 Singapore License.

5. Participant Feedback

Strengths:Hands-on experience with EJS.
Availability of ready resources and the presenter's enthusiasm.
The workshop was described as "authentic task and very application based". Participants found that the workshop was "much more enriching than workshops focusing on the more abstract concepts that never really apply to real life situations."
Exposure to free web tools that Physics teachers can utilize.
The ability to customize and modify existing models is seen as very useful.
A move towards open source education.
Takeaways:Participants gained practical skills in using EJS.
They were encouraged to explore EJS further.
Many understood the potential for open educational resources and creating their own learning tools.
Improvements Suggested:Workshop was too fast-paced for some participants.
There was a demand for more extended and in-depth sessions. Participants requested a "2 to 3 day workshop" on "Basics, Advance and Applications to pedagogy and PBL".
Some participants would like to see more direct connections to curriculum and how simulations can enhance learning, or to apply the tools to different fields of study.
Some participants felt there was a disconnect between the title of the workshop (Deepening Conceptual Understanding) and the focus on EJS tool usage.

6. Numerical Feedback:

Likert Scale (1=Strongly Disagree, 4=Strongly Agree):Workshop objectives achieved: 3.0/4
Workshop met learning needs: 2.8/4
Materials were relevant: 3.3/4
Application of skills learnt: 2.9/4
Satisfaction: 3.2/4
Presentation quality: 3.6/4
Presenter knowledge: 3.6/4
Presenter preparation: 3.6/4
Interaction: 3.3/4
Explanations clarity: 3.4/4
Practical examples: 3.4/4
Overall workshop rating: 3.0 out of 4
Trainer rating: 3.4 out of 4

7. Related Projects and Links

The document provides a large list of links to various other workshops, projects, and resources related to Open Source Physics, simulations, and the use of technology in education. These links can be categorized into:

Past workshops and events: Demonstrating a history of similar initiatives.
Specific simulation projects: Showing examples of the kind of work being done.
Resources and tools: Providing additional access for teachers.
Awards and recognitions: Demonstrating the value of this work.
Software and applets created and available.

8. Conclusion

This ICT Mentors' Learning Series provided a valuable opportunity for educators to explore the use of open-source physics tools to enhance teaching and learning. While there is evidence that some participants felt the workshop was fast-paced, the feedback indicated a strong interest in further learning and using open-source tools. The workshop successfully introduced EJS and its potential in constructionist-learning environments, and highlighted the benefits of open educational resources for empowering educators. It also highlighted the need to balance technical skills with pedagogically sound approaches for conceptual understanding. The links and resources provided in the document are invaluable for further learning and for fostering a community of practice around the use of Open Source Physics tools in education.

Learning Series for ICT Mentors_Deepening Conceptual Understanding using Open Source Physics Tools (6 August 2013)

Updated: 07Feb2015 emails deletedupdated 5 September 2013 with photo by neo, thanks!

photo from my iphone

new name: Learning Series for ICT Mentors_Deepening Conceptual Understanding using Open Source Physics Tools (6 August 2013)
old name: ICT Mentors' Seminar Pre-Seminar Workshop 2013
update: 29 july 2013

picture share by Sunny Chan Honored to be beside. — with Loo Kang Lawrence Wee.
thanks to sunny for sharing this with me. Message of the Day?

update 22july 2013:new date: 06 August 2013.1400-1700

Wee L.K., Lye S.Y. (2013, new date 06 August 1430-1730 24th June[cancel #sghaze] 0900-1200 ) Deepening Conceptual Understanding using Open Source Physics Tools, ICT Mentor Seminar 2 Malan Road EduLab@AST Level 4 Block J, Singapore

update 21 june2013ICT Mentors’ Pre-seminar Workshops on 24 Jun 13All pre-seminar workshops on Monday, 24 Jun 13, will be CANCELLED. To benefit all, we will work with the ICT Mentors, who are sharing at this platform to conduct the workshops as a Learning Series for ICT Mentors. More details will be provided at a later date.

update 06june

We are pleased to confirm your registration for the pre-seminar workshop you have signed up.
1. Details of Pre-Seminar Workshop
Title : Deepening Conceptual Understanding using Open Source Physics Tools
Date : Tuesday 06 August instead of Monday, 24 June 2013
Time : 1430 - 1730 instead of 9.00 a.m. – 12 noon (Registration starts at 8.30 a.m.)

Venue : Academy of Singapore Teachers 2, Malan Road, Singapore 109433
Locality Link : http://www.onemap.sg/?SearchVal=2%20Malan%20Road&LW:Y&wO5d:JhJbq_R,JbfhR_h,JfYRf_I,Jbbbq_h,c
Room : Blk J, Level 4, eduLab@AST
Things to bring / prepare : bring own laptop could be a good idea as eduLab@AST only has 17 laptops2. Pre-Seminar Workshop Engagement
As part of the engagement with presenter(s), we would like to invite you to look at the resources which the presenter(s) has/have put up for you in OPAL under Forum. You may access the resources parked in the forum thread created for the respective workshop from 11 June onwards. We look forward to your engagement and participation in the pre-seminar discussion with the presenter(s) and participants.3. Parking
The details about parking will be put up in OPAL by mid June. Please click here to find out the parking details. Note that not all schools are able to make provision for participants to park within the school compound.Should you have any queries, please contact Junice Teo (Email : This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. / Tel: 6 879 7119) or Ng Hwee Hwee (Email :This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. / Tel : 6 872 7194) if you have further queries.
We look forward to seeing you at the pre-seminar workshop.
Yours sincerely,
ICT Mentors’ Seminar Organising Committee
Theme: Leading the Learning Community

Date: 24 June 2013
Time: 0900-1200

Venue: eduLab@AST 2 Malan Road Level 4 Block J

Audience: 30

Organisers:

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Facilitators:
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TEO_Kwee_Siang
TAN_Boon_HaurFriends:

Deepening Conceptual Understanding using Open Source Physics (Easy Java Simulation) Tool http://mydesk.opal.moe.edu.sg/cos/o.x?ptid=gs309&c=/ca4_mydesk/wiki&title=Pre-Seminar%20Workshop
ICT Mentors' Seminar Pre-Seminar Workshop 2013
http://weelookang.blogspot.sg/2013/03/ict-mentors-seminar-pre-seminar.html
discussion
http://mydesk.opal.moe.edu.sg/cos/o.x?ptid=gs309&c=/ca4_mydesk/forum&func=showthread&t=1309&ptid=gs309

To provide:

1)a platform for ICT mentors to share effective use in ICT for specific subjects

2)some hands-on experience on how ICT can be harnessed for learning and teaching

Leading the Learning CommunityICT Mentors' Seminar Pre-Seminar Workshop 2013

Tilte: Deepening Conceptual Understanding using Open Source Physics (Easy Java Simulation) Tool

Title: Open Source Physics (Easy Java Simulation) Tool in Teaching and LearningSubject: Physics
Target audience (i.e. Secondary, JC/CI)
Type of technology used for teaching and learning: (Easy Java Simulation) Java Based on Windows, MacOSX and Linux only.

Abstract:
To help students visualize and experience physics concepts, this ICT Mentors workshop will help teachers to begin their journey to be creators/remixers of customized computer models for inquiry pedagogy enactment. With the model designed according to local context, students can engage interactively in meaningful play, are more likely to inspire the love for learning. In addition, from the constructionism theory of learning, students creating their own simulations can be a powerful learning of preparing students to be creators of knowledge, instead of just consuming knowledge.

By the end of this 3 hours hands-on workshop, participants should be able to: (1) download, launch and able to navigate the authoring toolkit to start designing simple physics model such as spring mass system. (2) able to download open source codes in authoring toolkit from Digital Libraries, Open source Physics website and NTNU Java Virtual Lab. (3) complied their newly made computer model to share with anyone, creative commons attribution licensed.activity 0: flipped classroom
watch the videos here http://weelookang.blogspot.sg/2011/02/easy-java-simulation-tutorial.html
worksheet that I used in 2007 http://www.opensourcephysics.org/items/detail.cfm?ID=7306activity 1: starter
download and run: EJS_4.3.7_130516.zip
older : http://www.um.es/fem/EjsWiki/uploads/Download/EJS_4.3.7_130115.zipPre Installation: assume you have Java else use this link http://java.com/en/download/index.jsp
Installation: Java 3D 1.5.1 2.95 MB java3d-1_5_1-windows-i586.exe may require downloading from their website due to license agreement.http://www.oracle.com/technetwork/java/javasebusiness/downloads/java-archive-downloads-java-client-419417.html#java3d-1.5.1-oth-JPR

activity 2: requester

features you may want to learn how to make

add slider

add graphs

activity 3: beginner

perhaps a falling ball or a simple uniform motion ball

[NEW!] activity 3.3: http://weelookang.blogspot.sg/2013/08/how-to-add-timer-function-into-existing.html
new activity to involve participants with an authentic task, remix by adding a timer function!!activity 3.5: do another simple spring mass model using this PDF [at your own time]

Worksheet:Modeling Science Textbook Chapter 2: Introduction to Easy Java Simulations written by Wolfgang Christian and Francisco Esquembre download 972kb .pdf

activity 4: remixer

browse and search for a model you want to change

http://www.compadre.org/osp/search/browse.cfm?browse=gsss

http://www.phy.ntnu.edu.tw/ntnujava/index.php?board=28.0

http://weelookang.blogspot.sg/p/physics-applets-virtual-lab.html

http://iwant2study.org/sharing/?author=1

activity 5: sharer

post once a thank you any where

then compile your EJS model and upload here http://www.phy.ntnu.edu.tw/ntnujava/index.php?board=28.0

practicing 21st century being.
note: NTNU forum only allow postings of EJS models for at least 2 posts count accounts. You need to post more often.

also posted here http://mydesk.opal.moe.edu.sg/cos/o.x?ptid=gs309&c=/ca4_mydesk/forum&func=showthread&t=1309&ptid=gs309

closing discussions:
Paper for discussions:
[1] arXiv:1212.3863 [pdf]Geostationary Earth Orbit Satellite Model using Easy Java Simulation by Loo Kang Wee, Giam Hwee Goh
[11] arXiv:1204.4964 [pdf] One-dimensional collision carts computer model and its design ideas for productive experiential learning by Loo Kang Wee
complete list of papers here http://arxiv.org/a/wee_l_1

some survey collated thanks to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. sandy!
http://mydesk.opal.moe.edu.sg/cos/o.x?ptid=gs309&c=/ca4_mydesk/wiki&title=Pre-Seminar%20Workshop%20Feedback
raw data: https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/44365627/conference/2013ICTmentorworkshop/Copy%20of%20Feedback_Session1.xlsxstrengths

learn basics of java
It is a very useful tool.
The ready resources from Loo Kang, the hands-on.
Thanks very much. Loo Kang's passion and enthusiasm is infectious. :)
Introducing a free web tool that Physics teacher can tap on. 2. The presenter and facilitators are very helpful and willing to share what they know.
Lots of insight and hands-on run through of the various tools that can be used to design and adjust simulations to meet my students needs as well as to develop my own apps for various purposes and learning.
Very informative.
Step by step in use of the EJS.
1. It is extremely useful to have a hands on workshop on the use of EJS for the creation of applets for lessons. 2. There is clarity in the explanations on the use of EJS.
Trainer is very experienced in using the software.
authentic task and very application based workshop. I find it much more enriching than workshops focusing on the more abstract concepts that never really apply to real life situations.

Takeaways:

how to make changes to other ejs
Wants to explore EJS more
Open Education Resource Initiative
Be exposed to the tools that are available on the web that teachers can use.
We have control of what we wish to do with our time and open source is a great way we can enhance our own learning.
Possibilities of creating and modifying simulations to suit our teaching needs.
The applet resources available on the blog.
Able to modify existing models to suit by needs
EJS is not just a tool, sim remixing is not only a tool; but an endless supply of tools to be utilized by us teachers.
open source is the new way to go for education especially with the advent of internet, as per MOOCs are the in thing internationally.

Improvements:

too fast pace.
Have more sessions. One session is not enough to learn EJS. (maybe i can conduct those 3 days course for physics organised by NIE folks, like modeling instruction organised by CPDD and NIE. i need to go ask around)
More time. 2 to 3 day work shop 1) Basics 2) Advance 3) Applications to pedagogy and PBL
The duration of the workshop is too short.
Maybe make this course on a Friday so that we dont need to leave so early from class in case we miss lessons.
Very technical workshop. The objectives of the course is not very clear. Participant may not be prepared the course.
Maybe for basic course, start with topics and chapters that are from the syllabus and see how simulations help students to learn better.
Focus of workshop was on using the EJS. There was little on deepening physics concepts. If the workshop is meant to be this way, then the title of the workshop should not be misleading. (high level learning can be students changing the codes to represent their understanding of physics, intermediate level, guided inquiry with activities to get students to collect data, analyse data and think about the evidence to purpose their model of understanding, lower level is teacher demonstration)
1. How EJS can be used to deepen conceptual learning in Physics? 2. Relevance to the title of the workshop.
If given a chance, a follow up workshop allowing EJS to be applied to other fields could be beneficial to teachers from other disciplines. (it is a bit forced fit cos Maths, i use Geogebra http://www.geogebra.org/cms/en/ Chem i use Molecular Workbench http://mw.concord.org/modeler/)

likert scale of Strongly Disagree 1 to 4 Strongly Agree
The workshop objectives were achieved. 3.0/4

The workshop met my learning needs. 2.8

The materials were relevant to the objectives.3.3

I can apply the ideas/skills learnt in my work. 2.9

I am satisfied with the workshop. 3.2

The presentation was good. 3.6

The presenter(s) had good knowledge of the workshop content. 3.6

The presenter(s) was / were well prepared and organised. 3.6

There was good interaction between the presenter(s) and participants. 3.3

The presenter(s)' explanations were clear. 3.4

The presenter(s) gave practical examples. 3.4 out of 4Workshop rating 3.0 out of 4
Trainer 3.4 out of 4

Learning Series for ICT Mentors_Deepening Conceptual Understanding using Open Source Physics Tools
(6 August 2013)

photo gallery by neo, thanks!

FAQ on Open Source Physics Tools for Conceptual Understanding

What is the main focus of the "Deepening Conceptual Understanding using Open Source Physics Tools" workshop?
The workshop's primary goal is to equip educators, particularly ICT mentors and physics teachers, with the skills to utilize open-source physics tools, specifically Easy Java Simulation (EJS), to enhance students' conceptual understanding of physics principles. It moves beyond passive consumption of knowledge to empowering teachers to create or remix customized computer models aligned with their local contexts, fostering more interactive and engaging learning experiences for students. This approach is grounded in constructionism, promoting students as creators of knowledge.
What is Easy Java Simulation (EJS), and why is it important for physics education?
Easy Java Simulation (EJS) is a free, open-source authoring toolkit that allows users to design and create interactive computer models or simulations of physics phenomena. Its importance in education stems from its ability to enable students to visualize abstract concepts and engage in 'meaningful play', as well as allow students to create their own simulations. It promotes a more hands-on, inquiry-based learning approach where students can manipulate variables, observe results, and develop a deeper conceptual understanding through active exploration and experimentation. EJS simulations can be shared with others under a Creative Commons license.
What are some of the activities participants engage in during the workshop?
Participants engage in a range of hands-on activities, starting with a 'flipped classroom' approach where they watch tutorial videos beforehand. The activities include downloading and running EJS, learning how to add elements like sliders and graphs to simulations, creating basic models (e.g., a falling ball or spring-mass system), and remixing existing models from online libraries. A notable activity involves adding a timer function to an existing simulation, emphasizing an authentic task. The workshop culminates in participants compiling and sharing their created models, reinforcing the 21st-century learning principle of knowledge sharing and collaborative improvement.
How does the workshop aim to transform the role of students in the learning process?
The workshop promotes a shift from students being passive consumers of knowledge to active creators. By using EJS to build or modify simulations, students learn to apply their understanding of physics principles and gain deeper knowledge of the underlying concepts. This aligns with the constructionism theory of learning, which emphasizes the importance of building one's own knowledge through active creation and modification of learning experiences. The workshop emphasizes the role of the teacher as a facilitator who creates opportunities for students to learn through interaction with customizable tools.
What are the key benefits of using Open Source Physics tools in teaching?
Open Source Physics (OSP) tools like EJS offer several key benefits. They provide free access to resources, enabling teachers to use and adapt them according to their needs. The tools can be easily modified to fit specific curricula and learning objectives. The sharing of these tools promotes collaboration and innovation. They also enable the creation of learning environments where students can engage in meaningful, interactive play, fostering a deeper understanding of the subject matter. The use of open-source tools also promotes students as active participants in the construction of knowledge.
What are some of the identified challenges in using open-source physics tools, based on participant feedback?
Participant feedback indicates some challenges, such as the fast-paced nature of the workshops, which requires more time for effective learning. Some participants felt the objectives weren’t clear or the training was too technically focused. Furthermore, some felt there should have been more focus on deepening physics concepts rather than just on the mechanics of using EJS. There was a call for more basic and advanced courses, possibly over multiple days, which were more closely related to the official syllabus. Some wanted the simulation to be more pedagogically useful and aligned to specific teaching topics.
Besides EJS, what other types of open educational resources are promoted or utilized?
While EJS is a focal point, the workshop also encourages the use of a variety of other open educational resources. These include digital libraries, open-source physics websites, and virtual labs such as the NTNU Java Virtual Lab. The workshop also highlights how Tracker video analysis software can also be used. It is also noted that resources like GeoGebra (for math) and Molecular Workbench (for chemistry) exist, acknowledging the relevance of open-source tools in other subjects.
What is the significance of the workshop's connection to research and sharing within the academic community?
The workshop is directly linked to ongoing research in physics education, with references to published papers on using EJS for modeling various physical phenomena (e.g., satellite motion, collision carts). Participants are encouraged to share their creations and engage in discussions on platforms like the NTNU forum, fostering a community of practice. This emphasizes the 21st-century learning of collaboration and knowledge sharing. The workshop aims to contribute to both academic understanding and practical application of open-source simulation tools for pedagogy in education.