Work in progress: Implementing computerized simulations and animations in teaching: Improving and advancing the instruction of electricity and physics in Israeli institutes of higher education

The purpose of this study was to examine ways to improve and advance the instruction of electricity and physics in institutes of higher education by implementing teaching methods that combine computerized simulations and animations together with conventional teaching methods. Qualitative and quantitative methods of research were combined in this study. An innovative observation model was used to conduct observations in physics classes. The participants were undergraduate students (N=66) from the Physics Deparlment of the Technion (Israel Institute of Technology) and their teachers. Questionnaires were distributed to both students and teachers. An anonymous attitude questionnaire was also distributed to students in order to determine their views and understanding regarding computerized simulations and animations. The findings relate to the main advantages and disadvantages of computerized simulations and animations as teaching aids in higher education. At this time, statistical tests and analyses are still in progress.