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PhET Simulations

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May 1, 2024 Updated July 10, 2025 15 minute read

PhET Simulations is a suite of interactive, research-based simulations of science concepts. These simulations are free to use and can be used on a variety of devices, including computers, tablets, and smartphones. PhET Simulations are designed to help students learn about science by providing them with the opportunity to explore and experiment with different concepts in a safe and engaging environment.

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Reading list

We've selected 16 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in PhET Simulations.
Specifically addresses the integration of computation, modeling, and simulation practices into undergraduate STEM classrooms. It provides pedagogical guidance for instructors, directly aligning with the use of PhET simulations which are modeling and simulation tools. It valuable resource for university-level educators looking to incorporate simulations effectively.
Provides a comprehensive overview of simulations for the social sciences, covering a wide range of topics from the history of simulations to the latest advances in agent-based modeling. Selten, a Nobel laureate in economics, provides a unique perspective on the role of simulations in social science research.
Given that PhET simulations are designed for inquiry-based learning, this book is highly relevant as it provides a conceptual and practical guide to implementing this approach in STEM programs. It can help educators understand the pedagogical framework that PhET simulations support and how to design effective inquiry-based activities. It valuable resource for teachers and teacher educators.
Explores the design, implementation, and research on digital simulations for improving teaching and learning. It provides insights into the potential of simulations as 'artificial teaching environments,' which is directly relevant to understanding the educational power of PhET simulations. It useful resource for educators and researchers interested in the pedagogical design of simulations.
Provides a comprehensive overview of simulation in the social sciences, covering a wide range of topics from the history of simulation to the latest advances in agent-based modeling. Gilbert and Troitzsch provide a unique perspective on the role of simulation in social science research.
This comprehensive handbook synthesizes research in STEM education, covering various themes including learning, pedagogy, curriculum, and critical issues. It provides a broad understanding of the landscape in which PhET simulations are used and can inform educators and researchers on best practices and current trends. It valuable reference for graduate students and professionals.
Bridges the gap between instructional design and game design, offering a practical guide to creating effective learning games. Given the interactive and often game-like nature of PhET simulations, this book can help educators understand the principles behind designing engaging simulated experiences and how to integrate them effectively into their teaching. It's a useful resource for anyone designing learning activities.
Provides a wide range of practical strategies for implementing active learning in any subject. Since PhET simulations are often used in active learning settings, this book can serve as a valuable resource for educators looking for diverse ways to incorporate simulations into engaging lesson plans and activities. It practical guide for teachers across disciplines.
Offers practical guidance on effective STEM teaching and learning strategies, including the use of technology and active learning. It provides a strong foundation in pedagogical approaches relevant to using simulations like PhET in the classroom. This useful reference tool for educators at all levels looking to improve their practice.
This guide focuses on designing engaging learning experiences using games and active learning techniques. PhET simulations often incorporate game-like elements and are used in active learning settings, making this book relevant for educators looking to design effective activities around simulations. It provides practical advice for incorporating play and engagement into instruction.
Provides an in-depth look at the use of interactive simulations for physics education, discussing the benefits and challenges associated with this approach. The authors provide numerous examples of how simulations can be used to teach various physics concepts, and they offer practical tips for developing and using simulations in the classroom.
Chronicles the evolution of STEM teaching and learning, including the impact of emerging technologies and active learning pedagogies. It provides a broad overview of the current landscape of STEM education, offering context for the role and potential of tools like PhET simulations in shaping the future of the field. It is suitable for educators, researchers, and policymakers.
This book, part of the "Advances in Chemistry Education" series, focuses on instructional approaches and teaching techniques specifically in chemistry education. Given the significant number of PhET simulations in chemistry, this book can provide valuable context and pedagogical strategies for effectively using simulations to teach chemistry concepts. It is relevant for chemistry educators and researchers.
Aimed at high school and undergraduate students, this book introduces the use of computer simulations in STEM fields. While not specific to PhET, it provides foundational knowledge on how simulations are used to solve problems, which is directly applicable to understanding the purpose and value of PhET simulations. It can serve as helpful background reading.
While a more theoretical text, this book explores the role of language in mathematics education. Understanding how students interpret mathematical concepts is crucial when using visual and interactive tools like PhET simulations in math. can offer deeper insights into the cognitive processes involved in learning mathematics with simulations, particularly for graduate students and researchers in mathematics education.
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