iCTLT) 2018
Sources: Excerpts from the "Open Educational Resources / Open Source Physics @ Singapore" website, detailing the paper presentation "Open Source Physics at Singapore" at iCTLT 2018.
1. Overview:
This briefing document summarizes the key information surrounding the "Open Source Physics at Singapore" (OSP@SG) paper presented at the International Conference on Teaching and Learning with Technology (iCTLT) 2018. The document outlines the context of the conference, the acceptance of the OSP@SG proposal, the core ideas behind the project, and reviewer feedback.
2. International Conference on Teaching and Learning with Technology (iCTLT) 2018:
- Theme: The overarching theme of iCTLT 2018 was "Shape the Future, Be a Spark." This theme emphasized the crucial role of educators in harnessing technology to nurture "Future-ready and Responsible Digital Learners." The conference aimed to provide a platform for educators to share insights, practices, experiences, and research on using technology for 21st-century learning.
- Dates and Venue: The conference was held from May 30 to June 1, 2018, at the Resorts World Convention Centre in Singapore. It included a half-day pre-conference (May 30) and a two-day main conference (May 31 to June 1).
- Speakers: The conference featured several keynote and spotlight speakers, including Prof Rose Luckin (UCL, UK), Prof Manu Kapur (ETH Zurich, Switzerland), Prof Lim Sun Sun (SUTD), Prof Tsui Kai Chong (SUSS), Dr Shuchi Grover (ACT, USA), and others.
- Call for Proposals: The call for proposals ran from August 25 to October 13, 2017, inviting educators to present their work related to ICT in education.
3. Acceptance of "Open Source Physics at Singapore" Proposal:
- The proposal titled "Open Source Physics at Singapore" was submitted by Mr. Lawrence Loo Kang Wee (SG MOEHQ - ETD Senior Specialist) and Mr. Tze Kwang Leong (SG MOEHQ - CPDD Curriculum Resource Development Officer).
- The proposal was accepted for the Paper Presentation segment (30-minute slot) scheduled for June 1, 2018, from 2:00 to 2:30 pm in Aquarius 1.
- The acceptance rate for iCTLT 2018 was highly competitive, with only 92 proposals accepted out of 319 submitted, representing a 28.8% acceptance rate.
- The conference organizers congratulated Mr. Wee on the acceptance, noting that the theme encouraged sharing on emerging trends and innovative uses of technology in teaching and learning.
4. Core Ideas of "Open Source Physics at Singapore" (OSP@SG):
- Project Goal: OSP@SG is a project by the Singapore Ministry of Education aimed at enhancing physics education by bridging the gap between abstract textbook concepts and real-world phenomena. The project provides teachers with interactive resources to support student learning.
- Pedagogical Approaches:Visualisation: OSP@SG complements real-life experiments by offering interactive resources that help students visualize abstract physics concepts.
- Mathematical Modelling: Students can test their ideas and equation-driven models against real-life or simulated data, fostering a deeper understanding through comparison and fitting.
- Technology: The project utilizes open-source technology, primarily HTML5 for simulations and Java for video analysis (Tracker). This ensures accessibility anytime, anywhere, on students' computers and mobile devices.
- Impact and Reach: The proposal highlights the "system wide impact on teaching and learning" due to the extensive use of OSP@SG simulations and the Tracker video analysis tool by physics teachers and students in Secondary, Junior College, and Universities.
- Resources: The OSP@SG website (https://sg.iwant2study.org/ospsg/) hosts over 300 open source and open educational digital resources. Additionally, apps and e-books are available on Android Playstore and Apple App Store for offline use.
- Evidence of Success: The proposal mentions "positive feedback received on the project both in Singapore and around the world" since collaborations with schools began in 2012.
- Benefits: OSP@SG promotes a "student-centric pedagogy" where students can learn by experimenting like scientists using modelling and simulation. This allows them to "better visualise, explore and discover abstract physics concepts through manipulation and modelling techniques."
- Future Plans: The project aims to further enhance accessibility by creating more apps and e-books for offline use on major mobile platforms. The overarching goal is to provide "accessible, adaptable and affordable open educational interactive resources to prepare our students to be Future-ready."
5. Reviewers' Comments and Feedback:
The reviewers provided constructive feedback on the proposal, requesting further elaboration on key aspects:
- Pedagogical Value: Reviewers acknowledged that the proposal described resources meeting the pedagogical need for authentic learning. They suggested strengthening the proposal by "considering including some findings from literature on the usefulness of such visualisation tools in the learning of Physics."
- Sustainability: The sustainability of the resources through the online open-source platform was noted positively.
- International Impact: To further highlight the value, reviewers recommended "briefly sharing how the impact of OSP has extended beyond Singapore by sharing statistics on simulation apps download and reviews from users beyond Singapore’s shores." This suggests a need to showcase the global reach and reception of the OSP@SG project.
6. Presenter Information and Logistics:
- The presenters, Mr. Leong and Mr. Wee, were required to register for the main conference by January 31, 2018.
- The main conference registration fee for MOE educators was covered by MOE, while non-MOE educators' schools would bear the cost. The optional pre-conference fee was payable by the school for both.
- A maximum of two presenters was allowed per accepted proposal.
7. Conference Strands:
The "Open Source Physics at Singapore" proposal aligned with the conference strand "Shape the Future - Embracing innovation." This highlights the project's contribution to innovative teaching and learning practices through technology.
8. Target Audience:
The presentation was intended for a broad audience within the education sector, including:
- Teachers
- Teacher-Leaders
- School Leaders
- Researchers
- Policy Makers
- Industry Representatives
The subject/research area was primarily Science, with relevance to Mathematics and Teacher Development.
9. Additional Information:
The website also contains a vast number of links to various interactive simulations and tools, indicating the extensive collection of open educational resources available under the OSP@SG initiative. The popular tags further emphasize the key areas covered by these resources, including "Learning and Teaching Mathematics using Simulations – Plus 2000 Examples from Physics," "Newtonian Mechanics," "Waves," "Electricity and Magnetism," and more.
10. Conclusion:
The acceptance of the "Open Source Physics at Singapore" paper at iCTLT 2018 underscores the significance and innovative nature of the project in leveraging open-source technology and interactive simulations to enhance physics education. The reviewers' feedback provides valuable direction for further emphasizing the pedagogical benefits and global impact of OSP@SG. The project aligns strongly with the conference theme of shaping the future of education through technology and fostering future-ready learners
iCTLT 2018 Paper: Open Source Physics at Singapore Study Guide
Quiz
- What are the two primary pedagogical approaches of the Open Source Physics at Singapore (OSP@SG) project?
- According to the proposal summary, what type of existing classroom materials does OSP@SG aim to complement?
- What technologies are primarily used to develop the interactive resources within the OSP@SG project, as mentioned in the proposal summary?
- What evidence suggests a system-wide impact of OSP@SG on teaching and learning in Singapore?
- What was the acceptance rate for paper presentations at the iCTLT 2018 conference?
- What was the central theme of the iCTLT 2018 conference?
- Name two of the keynote speakers who tentatively agreed to join iCTLT 2018.
- What is the URL of the OSP@SG website mentioned in the proposal summary?
- What future plans are mentioned in the proposal summary to further enhance the accessibility of OSP@SG resources?
- Under which conference strand was the 'Open Source Physics at Singapore' proposal submitted?
Quiz Answer Key
- The two primary pedagogical approaches of OSP@SG are complementing real-life experiments with interactive visualizations and 'mathematical modelling' where students can test their ideas against real or simulated data.
- OSP@SG aims to complement static textbook abstractions and word problems, which can be difficult for students to comprehend real-world physics concepts.
- The primary technologies used are HTML5 for simulations and Java for video analysis, both of which are open source.
- The vast numbers of Physics teachers and students in Secondary and Junior College and Universities using OSP@SG simulations and the Tracker video analysis tool suggest a system-wide impact.
- The acceptance rate for paper presentations at the iCTLT 2018 conference was 28.8%, with 92 proposals accepted out of 319 submitted.
- The central theme of the iCTLT 2018 conference was “Shape the Future, Be a Spark.”
- Two of the keynote speakers who tentatively agreed to join iCTLT 2018 are Prof Rose Luckin (UCL, UK) and Prof Manu Kapur (ETH Zurich, Switzerland). (Other correct answers: Prof Lim Sun Sun (SUTD), and Prof Tsui Kai Chong (SUSS)).
- The URL of the OSP@SG website mentioned in the proposal summary is https://sg.iwant2study.org/ospsg/.
- Future plans include creating apps and e-books on Android Playstore and Apple App Store for offline use.
- The 'Open Source Physics at Singapore' proposal was submitted under the conference strand "Shape the Future-Embracing innovation".
Essay Format Questions
- Discuss the potential benefits of using open educational resources like OSP@SG in physics education, drawing upon the information provided in the source material. Consider the pedagogical approaches and accessibility aspects of the project.
- Analyze the significance of the iCTLT conference as a platform for educators to share and discuss the use of technology in learning. How does the acceptance of the OSP@SG proposal align with the conference's theme and strands?
- Evaluate the reviewers' comments on the OSP@SG proposal. How might incorporating their suggestions strengthen the paper presentation at iCTLT 2018?
- Based on the proposal summary and the list of resources, describe the range and types of interactive simulations and tools available through OSP@SG. How might these resources cater to diverse learning needs and styles?
- Considering the information provided, discuss the potential for the OSP@SG project to extend its impact beyond Singapore. What factors might contribute to or hinder its adoption in other educational contexts?
Glossary of Key Terms
- Open Educational Resources (OER): Teaching, learning, and research materials in any medium, digital or otherwise, that reside in the public domain or have been released under an open license that permits no-cost access, use, adaptation, and redistribution by others with no or limited restrictions.
- Open Source: A philosophy and practice that promotes free access to and redistribution of a product's design and implementation, often including the source code for software, allowing for modification and enhancement by users and developers.
- Interactive Simulations: Computer-based models that allow users to manipulate variables and observe the resulting changes in a system, often used for visualization and exploration of abstract concepts.
- Pedagogy: The method and practice of teaching, especially as an academic subject or theoretical concept. In this context, it refers to the teaching approaches and strategies employed by OSP@SG.
- Mathematical Modelling: The process of creating a mathematical representation of a real-world system or problem, allowing for analysis, prediction, and testing of ideas through equations and data.
- HTML5: The latest evolution of the standard that underpins the structure and content of the World Wide Web, enabling the creation of rich and interactive web applications and simulations that can run on various devices without the need for plugins.
- Java: A high-level, class-based, object-oriented programming language that is designed to have as few implementation dependencies as possible, often used for developing a wide range of applications, including educational tools.
- iCTLT (International Conference on Teaching and Learning with Technology): A conference focused on the integration and effective use of technology in education for 21st-century learning.
- MOE (Ministry of Education, Singapore): The government ministry responsible for education in Singapore.
- CPDD (Curriculum Planning and Development Division): A division within the Singapore MOE involved in curriculum design and resource development.
- ETD (Educational Technology Division): A division within the Singapore MOE focused on leveraging technology to enhance teaching and learning.
Email 16 April 2018
Paper Presentation Session name : P6.1
Mr Lawrence Loo Kang Wee SG MOEHQ - ETD Senior Specialist lawrence_wee@moe.gov.sg
Email 24 Jan 2018
Dear Lawrence Wee,
Congratulations on your iCTLT 2018 proposal ‘Open Source Physics at Singapore’ being accepted for the Paper Presentation segment. Out of the 319 proposals that were submitted and reviewed, 92 proposals were accepted. The acceptance rate of proposals for iCTLT 2018 is 28.8%.
The theme of the conference “Shape the Future, Be a Spark” invites educators to share insights, practices, experiences, and research studies on harnessing technology for 21st century learning, so as to envision and share emerging trends, pedagogical use of cutting-edge technology and innovative use of established technology for learning and teaching.
Below are the reviewers’ comments regarding your proposal, for your consideration please.
This proposal described the resources that have been created meet the pedagogy requirement of making learning authentic to students. These resources are sustainable as they belong to an online open source platform.
To further highlight the value of these resources, do consider including some findings from literature on the usefulness of such visualisation tools in the learning of Physics. Do also consider briefly sharing how the impact of OSP has extended beyond Singapore by sharing statistics on simulation apps download and reviews from users beyond Singapore’s shores.
For Action
All presenters are required to register for the main conference. For MOE educators, the main conference registration fee (SGD 909.50 per pax) will be borne by MOE. For non-MOE educators (i.e. school direct hires), the main conference registration fee will be charged to the school. The optional pre-conference fee (SGD 214 per pax) is payable by the school for both MOE and non-MOE educators.
Due to logistical constraints, a maximum of two presenters is allowed for each accepted proposal.
To confirm your acceptance of the Paper Presentation, please complete all the fields in the attached spreadsheet with the two presenters’ details and reply by 31 January 2018.
If you require further clarifications, please contact us at MOE_ETD_iCTLT@moe.gov.sg.
We look forward to seeing you at iCTLT 2018!
Thank you.
Regards,
iCTLT 2018 Organising Committee
Educational Technology Division
Email 02 october 2017
Dear Colleagues
The iCTLT 2018 Organising Committee would like to share some updates on the preparation for iCTLT 2018.
Conference Theme
The conference theme is “Shape the Future, Be a Spark.” The focus for iCTLT 2018 is on the importance and catalytic nature of educators’ role in helping to realise our vision for ICT in Education, which is to nurture “Future-ready and Responsible Digital Learners.” Every educator has a significant role to play in translating the future according to his or her ability and contribution.Conference Date and
30 May to 1 June 2018. The three-day conference comprises a half-day pre-conference (30 May) and two-day main conference (31 May to 1 June).Venue
Speakers
We have 4 keynote and 6 spotlight speakers who have tentatively agreed to join us at iCTLT 2018. The keynote speakers are: Prof Rose Luckin (UCL, UK), Prof Manu Kapur (ETH Zurich, Switzerland), Prof Lim Sun Sun(SUTD), and Prof Tsui Kai Chong (SUSS). The spotlight speakers are: Dr Shuchi Grover (ACT, USA), Keith Krueger (Consortium for School Networking, USA), Julie Inman Grant (Office of the Children’s eSafety Commissioner, Australia), Bart Verswijvel (European Schoolnet, Belgium), A/P Zachary M. Walker (NIE), and Peter Ho (HOPE Technik Pte Ltd).Call for proposals
The call for proposals opened on 25 Aug 2017, and is due to close on 13 Oct 2017. Do encourage your colleagues and schools that you work with to submit a proposal to present at iCTLT 2018. Please refer to the attached email for more details.
Thank you for your support, and we look forward to working with you to make iCTLT 2018 a conference that we can be proud of.
Email 20 september 2017
Dear colleagues,The Ministry of Education (MOE) Singapore will be hosting the iCTLT 2018 Conference from 30 May 2018 to 01 June 2018.
This biennial iCTLT is a strategic platform for educators to provide thought leadership and champion the effective use of technology for 21st century learning.
The Conference Strands are:
Strand 1: Shape the Future
- Embracing innovation
- Fostering a culture of lifelong learning
- Designing ICT-enabled learning experiences and environments to spark the joy of learning in students
- Nurturing students to be responsible digital learners
We invite you to submit your proposal(s) for presentation at the Conference. Proposal(s) must be submitted through www.OpenConf.org/ictlt2018 from 25 August 2017 to 13 October 2017.
Please refer to the attached Information Sheet for more details.
We look forward to receiving your submission.
Thank you.
My Submission
OpenConf Peer Review & Conference Management System
OpenConf Home
Email Chair
Title: Open Source Physics at Singapore
Proposal Summary:
http://weelookang.blogspot.com/2017/08/international-conference-on-teaching.html
Frequently Asked Questions about Open Source Physics at Singapore (OSP@SG)
1. What is Open Source Physics at Singapore (OSP@SG)?
OSP@SG is a project initiated by the Singapore Ministry of Education aimed at enhancing physics education through interactive and open-source digital resources. It provides teachers with tools to complement traditional teaching methods, making abstract physics concepts more accessible and comprehensible for students in secondary schools, junior colleges, and universities.
2. What are the key pedagogical approaches of OSP@SG?>
OSP@SG employs two main pedagogical approaches. The first is to complement real-life experiments with interactive visualizations, helping students to grasp concepts that are difficult to understand from static textbooks and word problems alone. The second approach is 'mathematical modelling', which allows students to test their ideas and compare equation-driven models with real or simulated data, fostering a deeper understanding of physics principles.
3. What types of resources are available through OSP@SG?>
OSP@SG offers a wide range of open educational digital resources, including interactive HTML5 simulations and Java-based video analysis tools like Tracker. These resources cover various physics topics and are designed to run on students' computers and mobile devices. The project hosts over 300 such resources on its website. Additionally, some resources are available as apps and e-books on Android and Apple app stores for offline use.
4. How does OSP@SG utilize open-source technology?
OSP@SG leverages open-source technologies such as HTML5 for simulations and Java for video analysis. This ensures that the resources are generally accessible, adaptable, and affordable for educators and students. The open-source nature also promotes sustainability and allows for community contributions and development.
5. What evidence supports the impact of OSP@SG on learning?
Since 2012, the Singapore MOE has collaborated with schools on the OSP@SG project, receiving positive feedback both within Singapore and internationally. Benefits observed include enhanced student learning through a student-centric pedagogy that encourages experimentation using modeling and simulation. Students are better able to visualize, explore, and understand abstract physics concepts through manipulation and modeling techniques.
6. How does OSP@SG align with the goals of educational technology conferences like iCTLT?
OSP@SG's presentation at iCTLT 2018 aligns with the conference's theme of "Shape the Future, Be a Spark" by showcasing an innovative use of technology to enhance 21st-century learning. The project addresses the need for educators to harness technology to nurture "Future-ready and Responsible Digital Learners" by providing interactive, accessible, and open educational resources.
7. Who is the target audience for OSP@SG resources?
The primary target audience for OSP@SG resources includes physics teachers, teacher-leaders, school leaders, researchers, policymakers, and industry representatives. The resources are designed to be beneficial for physics education at the secondary, junior college, and university levels.
8. What are the future plans for OSP@SG?>
Future plans for OSP@SG include the continued development of accessible, adaptable, and affordable open educational interactive resources. This involves creating more apps and e-books for offline use on Android and Apple app stores, further expanding the reach and usability of these resources to prepare students to be future-ready.