The Effect of Interactive Computer Simulations on Student Achievement in AP Physics
Date
2018-07Type of Work
25 pagesText
action research papers
Program
Masters of EducationRights
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Education -- Research papers (Graduate).Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of interactive computer simulations vs. a
traditional lecture-demonstration method of teaching on student performance on AP test
questions for 11th grade students enrolled in AP Physics 1. This study used a quasi-experimental
design based on a convenience sample of two classes of 11th
grade students taking AP Physics 1.
Results of a pretest indicated the groups did not differ in achievement prior to the study. Posttest
scores were compared in order to assess the comparative effectiveness of the two instructional
methods. There was no significant difference in the post-test scores of the experimental group
(Mean = 34.10, SD = 5.74) and the control group (Mean = 36.32, SD = 5.89) [t(47) = 1.32,
p = .19]. Implications for future research are discussed.