COMPUTER BASED REAL LAB WORK AS A COGNITIVE TOOL IN PHYSICS EDUCATION

This paper deals with application of Computer based real lab work (CBRLW) as a platform for helping students to acquire a functional understanding of physics. CBRLW can be described as an “active engagement” learning environment in a practical works, where computer-assisted data acquisition and analysis tools are used together with experiment equipment and carefully developed worksheets. CBRLW are interpreted as cognitive educational tools and not only as technological ones. The specific technical equipment and software of PASCO scientific and FHYWE were applied in laboratory works of general and special physics of Šiauliai University. Laboratory works of Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Electricity, Optics and Solid State Physics were created and improved by using this universal interface-measurement-system. The varieties of sensors use the same interface box and the same software format. Students are able to focus on the investigation of many different physical phenomena without spending a large amount of time learning to use complicated tools. It provided to integrate modern science tools into physics teaching labs and made it possible to prepare and carry out experiments with a minimum of preparation time and a maximum of technical comfort. An attachment of interface (Figure 1) with a suitable sensor to the computer created very powerful system for collection, analysis and display of experimental data. Two CBRLW are discussed in this paper (Investigation of linear motion using an Atwood's Machine and Investigation of Frictional Force).