Learning physics concepts through digital game play

Steve Baker, Dr Michael Dezuanni, Year 4 Students
ST AIDAN'S ANGLICAN GIRLS' SCHOOL 

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This project aimed to enhance students’ understanding of physics concepts through reinforcing knowledge students had developed through more traditional techniques.

The students began the games component through designing physical games with found objects such as balls, planks of wood, string and rope. The students had to share their game concepts with the rest of the class and explain how a physics concept was being explored in the game.

The students then began to play iPad games that rely on concepts like gravity, friction and motion. The students recorded screen shots of moments in game play where a physics concept was displayed. These images were imported into an App called Book Creator where the students wrote an explanation of the physics concept. The students then presented their iBooks to the rest of the class.

What is the time frame of the project?
Term 2, 2013

What are the outcomes and achievements for this project?
The students’ understandings of physics concepts were reinforced and extended. The project was fun and all the students said that it made learning fun.

Testimonials about the benefits of this project.
'"I really liked what we did with the Monster Physics. … they didn't see it as another sort of normal standard lesson. It was a bit different and more engaging. I think that's the biggest thing."
Steve Baker

What is next for this project?
Steve aims to integrate games into Units like this Science one from the beginning of the Unit rather than as an enhancement phase at the end.