Des images pour des activités scientifiques : apport des nouvelles technologies dans l'enseignement de la physique

Abstract

The use of images in science activities : how can computer techno¬ logy contribute to the teaching of physics ? Daniel Beaufils Jean-Claude Le Touzé Hélène Richoux Bernard Richoux Our research group at the Institut National de Recherche Pédagogique has been investigating the potential value of images for supporting scientific activities in physics teaching. We modified existing computer imaging software originally intended for laboratory use so that it could also be used in science teaching. We selected relevant professional scientific practices, we constructed software that would enable both tools and activities to be transposed to an educational setting, and we trialled scientific activities with school and university students. The use of pictures to measure, analyse and compare models with reality raises questions as to the nature and status of pictures (photographs, films, numeric pictures, calculated pictures, abstract graphics), and the capacities of learners or the difficulties they experience. In presenting our work, our aim is to illustrate how new questions for science education emerge from technological developments.