The Effects of PhET Interactive Simulation Activities on Secondary School Students’ Physics Achievement
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Date
2026
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Publisher
SDU University
Abstract
PhET Interactive Simulations refer to digital learning technologies extensively used to educate students regarding science theories using a highly engaging approach. In this research, the effects of the use of PhET interactive simulation-based teaching on the academic performance of secondary school students' in physics were investigated. A quasi-experimental research design was adopted with an experimental and a control group for each of the three participating schools. Ninety-six participants from the eighth grade were sampled for this study. The instrument was found to be reliable (Cronbach’s α = 0.87). Descriptive statistics, Shapiro-Wilk, independent samples t-test, and ANCOVA were conducted to analyze data. The findings revealed that the mean score in the post-test was significantly higher for the experimental group than that of the control group (EG: M = 10.40, SD = 2.75; CG: M = 7.35, SD = 3.06). The independent samples t-test also showed that there was a significant difference between the post-test scores (t = -5.12, p < .001, Cohen's d = -1.045), indicating large effect size due to the use of PhET simulationsbased teaching approach. Similarly, ANCOVA results revealed a significant influence of the intervention (F = 23.9, p < .001). Based on the above analysis, the findings suggest that the use of PhET interactive simulation-based learning is more effective than traditional teaching method.
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Keywords
Theoretical Framework, Physics Education Challenges, Virtual Laboratories versus Physical Laboratories
Citation
Zhumakhan S / The Effects of PhET Interactive Simulation Activities on Secondary School Students’ Physics Achievement / SDU University / Department of Pedagogy of Natural Sciences