ROLE OF EMBODYING LEARNER’S THINKING IN COMPUTER SIMULATION

Current research says that computer simulations help students create a bridge between physics and the real world. However, it is not yet understood which factors influence the effect of computer simulations. In a computer simulation, the learner, as the player, can control and create situations. Whereas in the real world, students can only engage in rule-based activities and practice their predictions. Furthermore, computer simulations allow the learner to visualize and test their thinking. In the current study, a student was asked to solve real-world problems by creating and practicing their own explanatory hypothesis in a computer simulation. Finally, the role of embodying the learner’s thinking in a computer simulation is discussed in the context of scientific inquiry.