Development of computer simulations to overcome students misconceptions on light and optical instruments

Abstract

Abstract This study aims to develop computer simulations on light and optical instruments topic for junior high school students. The simulations are developed according to the students’ misconception having assessed with two-tier multiple choices test of light and optical instruments concept. The simulations are reviewed by six science teachers to gain comments and suggestion for further development using a set of questionnaires which consists of 10 items with 5-point Likert scale. The items of the instrument are created to assess simulations from aspects of content explanation and its deepness, display, language use, content, curriculum, and students’ misconception. The results of the study show that: (1) The computer simulations program is suited with the contents in the science curriculum, (2) The quality of computer simulations based on science teacher responses is in very good criteria. In conclusion, computer simulations are feasible for junior high school students to overcome misconceptions on light and optical instruments concept.