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A Usability Study of Classical Mechanics Education Based on Hybrid Modeling: Implications for Sustainability in Learning

Author

Listed:
  • Rosanna E. Guadagno

    (Center for International Security and Cooperation, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA)

  • Virgilio Gonzenbach

    (School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA)

  • Haley Puddy

    (School of Economic, Political, and Policy Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA)

  • Paul Fishwick

    (School of Arts, Technology, and Emerging Communication, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA)

  • Midori Kitagawa

    (School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA)

  • Mary Urquhart

    (School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA)

  • Michael Kesden

    (School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA)

  • Ken Suura

    (School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA)

  • Baily Hale

    (School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA)

  • Cenk Koknar

    (School of Arts, Technology, and Emerging Communication, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA)

  • Ngoc Tran

    (Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA)

  • Rong Jin

    (Computer Science Department, California State University, Fullerton, CA 92831, USA)

  • Aniket Raj

    (Computer Information Technology Department, Lonestar College, Houston, TX 77088, USA)

Abstract

A usability study evaluated the ease with which users interacted with an author-designed modeling and simulation program called STEPP (Scaffolded Training Environment for Physics Programming). STEPP is a series of educational modules for introductory algebra-based physics classes that allow students to model the motion of an object using Finite State Machines (FSMs). STEPP was designed to teach students to decompose physical systems into a few key variables such as time, position, and velocity and then encourages them to use these variables to define states (such as running a marathon) and transitions between these states (such as crossing the finish line). We report the results of a usability study on high school physics teachers that was part of a summer training institute. To examine this, 8 high school physics teachers (6 women, 2 men) were taught how to use our simulation software. Data from qualitative and quantitative measures revealed that our tool generally exceeded teacher’s expectations across questions assessing: (1) User Experience, (2) STEM-C Relevance, and (3) Classroom Applicability. Implications of this research for STEM education and the use of modeling and simulation to enhance sustainability in learning will be discussed.

Suggested Citation

  • Rosanna E. Guadagno & Virgilio Gonzenbach & Haley Puddy & Paul Fishwick & Midori Kitagawa & Mary Urquhart & Michael Kesden & Ken Suura & Baily Hale & Cenk Koknar & Ngoc Tran & Rong Jin & Aniket Raj, 2021. "A Usability Study of Classical Mechanics Education Based on Hybrid Modeling: Implications for Sustainability in Learning," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(20), pages 1-15, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:13:y:2021:i:20:p:11225-:d:654049
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Brailsford, Sally C. & Eldabi, Tillal & Kunc, Martin & Mustafee, Navonil & Osorio, Andres F., 2019. "Hybrid simulation modelling in operational research: A state-of-the-art review," European Journal of Operational Research, Elsevier, vol. 278(3), pages 721-737.
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