Pulling for better understanding of Newton’s laws

Abstract

We present a kinesthetic active learning activity, based on tug-of-war, that challenges upper secondary education and undergraduate learners to engage with Newton’s laws. The learning module has two parts. In the first part students analyse the game using common introductory physics concepts. They use those insights to make predictions about what factors affect the outcome of the game. In the experimental part of the activity, students first use a load cell to measure the force of tension produced by pulling against a fixed object while standing on various surfaces. The effective coefficient of friction for each interface is calculated from this data. Next, students compete in, observe, and analyse a series of tug-of-war games in which the tension in the rope is again measured and a local positioning system simultaneously tracks the position of the rope. We present example data and results for these activities and compare them to the predictions. In particular, we show the tension force in the rope typically decreases as one team gains the upper hand. This is evidence that forcing the opposing team to lose balance, which makes it difficult for them to apply their maximum force, is a key factor in winning a game of tug-of-war.

Observing or Performing Actions? Understanding Circular Motion via Two Types of Learning Activities

“…Previous physics education research attempts on embodied learning to introduce basic concepts and phenomena have included kindergarten students (Herakleioti & Pantidos, 2016;Hadzigeorgiou et al, 2008), secondary students for challenging concepts (DeStefano et al, 2020;Coletta et al, 2019) or university students to re-explore some previously taught concepts (Whitworth et al, 2014;Scherr et al, 2012), providing a positive impact when going beyond just the design proposal of the activities. Concepts in mechanics have a direct link with the human body and are an important presence in the daily life of students from a young age.…”

Teaching planetary retrograde motion using a local positioning system

“…Additionally, this activity does not provide experimental data that can be visualized or analysed by students. The kinaesthetic learning activity described in this paper uses the Poxyz LPS which we have used in the past for physics instruction [17][18][19][20][21]. It has the capability to measure 1D, 2D, and 3D positioning, acceleration, angular velocity, magnetic field strength, and pressure.…”