Indicates a research-demonstrated benefit
Overview
Laboratory activities that collect and present data graphically in real time, allowing students to get a direct intuitive sense of fundamental physics concepts that cannot be observed directly. When coupled with research-based curricula (see Similar Methods), MBL tools can lead to improved student learning.
| Type of Method | Instructional strategy | |
|---|---|---|
| Level |
Designed for:
Intro College Calculus-based |
|
| Setting |
Designed for:
Lab Can be adapted for: Lecture - Small (<30 students), Recitation/Discussion Session |
|
| Coverage | Few topics with great depth, Many topics with less depth | |
| Topics | Mechanics, Electricity / Magnetism, Waves / Optics, Thermal / Statistical | |
| Instructor Effort | Medium | |
| Resource Needs | Computers for student use in class, Lab equipment for student use - professional | |
| Skills |
Designed for:
Conceptual understanding of physics content Can be adapted for: Connecting conceptual and mathematical understanding, Think like a scientist, Enjoyment of physics, Designing experiments |
|
| Research Validation |
Based on research into:
how students learn Demonstrated to improve: scores on multiple choice conceptual tests Studied using: conceptual pre/post exams |
|
| Compatible Methods | Peer Instruction, PhET, UW Tutorials, JiTT, Ranking Tasks, ILDs, CGPS, Physlets, Context-Rich Problems, RealTime Physics, Workshop Physics, TIPERs, ABP Tutorials, SCALE-UP, Modeling, OSP, SDI Labs, OST Tutorials, ISLE, Thinking Problems, Workbook for Introductory Physics, LA Program, CAE TPS, CPU, SCL, TEFA, EiP, Tools for Scientific Thinking, M&I, Tutorials, Clickers | |
| Similar Methods | ILDs, RealTime Physics, Workshop Physics, ABP Tutorials, EiP, Tools for Scientific Thinking | |
| Website | http://physicsed.buffalostate.edu/danowner/whyMBL.html |





