PhET

What is it?
The PhET Interactive Simulations Project was founded in 2002 at the University of Colorado Boulder. This website contains free interactive science and math simulations that are engaging for students. The tool is available as a website and in the Apple App and Google Play stores.

What are the benefits?

• Teachers can browse for activities, share them with students, and attend virtual workshops.
• Each simulation comes with a detailed explanation and is aligned with Common Core Standards.
• The PhET project is dedicated to accessibility and is continuously improving the level of accessibility in their simulations. Users can search specifically for accessible simulations and each simulation contains information on its accessibility features.
• Student users can select from a variety of languages.

What are the drawbacks?

• Students cannot print their work for future reference.

How can it be used in education?

• Teachers can download the simulation for students without internet access.
• Teachers can embed the simulation as part of the course materials in most Learning Management Systems.
• Students can show their understanding by taking screen captures of them interacting with the simulations.

Sample Simulation:

Build a Fraction

Resource:

Transforming Classrooms with PhET Simulations