Effects of the Integration of PhET Simulations in the Teaching and Learning of the Physical Sciences of Common Core (Morocco)

Since 2000 till nowadays, the Moroccan educational system is increasingly evolving towards the optimal adoption of the competency-based approach that focuses on the learner. From this perspective, it is necessary to search for new pedagogical tools that can emulate the real experiment in creating motivational learning environments and improving the process of acquiring competences, especially with the shortage of experimental equipment in school lab. With the growing interest in ICT (Information Communication Technology), the use of interactive simulations has emerged as a true competitor to the real experience, and an effective alternative to traditional practices. This work aims to study the impact of using the interactive simulation product “Buoyancy” created as part of the physics project Education Technology (PhET), on the understanding and learning of common core science students. A comparative study has been performed between the interactive simulations using PhET tool and the real experience, considering acquiring and applying the cognitive skills as a key performance indicator. The experience has occurred with the adoption of a pre-test and post-test method. At the end of the session, we invited the simulation group learners to rate the sequence using a survey form. Obtained results have shown that PhET simulations have a remarkable effect on the acquisition and the application of new knowledge in Archimedes' thrust lesson; these effects are comparable with those of real experience. Moreover, the found results have shown a huge improvement in some other indicators like motivation, engagement and interaction inter-learners compared to the traditional method.