Developing a computer simulation to minimize misconceptions in motion concept

Abstract

Abstract In this paper, we report the effort to minimize the students’ misconception in motion concept by developing a computer simulation. This research and development are applied with Borg and Gall methods. In developing a computer simulation, Forced Concept Inventory (FCI) with Certainty Responses Index (CRI) scale is used to detect misconceptions of the students. The steps to develop a computer simulation are: (1) detecting misconception (pre-test), (2) designing and making a computer simulation, (3) validating simulation by an expert, (4) giving a chance to students on giving their opinion to a computer simulation, (5) trying the simulation in physics learning; the last step is (6) committing students’ conception test (post-test). Based on the FCI test, it was found that good conception of the students was 40%; less conception of the students was 20%; misconception of the students was 40%. According to our identification, the misconceptions were found in some motion concept i.e. linear motion, free fall, and parabolic motion. Then, a computer simulation was developing by designing it using Borland Delphi 7.0. After that, it was evaluated by material and media experts. The students gave their opinion about the computer simulation. Finally, a computer simulation was used in physics learning on the students of SMAN 2 Palu. It is found that students’ misconception is decreased about 25% after the computer simulation is applied.