PhET: AN INTERACTIVE SIMULATION TECHNOLOGY FOR LEARNING OUTCOMES BASED TEACHING-LEARNING SCIENCE

Recognizing the immense potential of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) as an essential part of the teaching-learning process for enhancing connectivity, content, capacity, and collaboration among various stakeholders, the National Education Policy 2020 advocates for education to reach individual learners through both online and offline modes of delivery. NEP-2020 further states that virtual laboratories provide equal access to quality practical and hands-on experiment-based learning experiences for all students. It also emphasizes that the teaching-learning process through games and simulations positively affects the quality of education. Traditionally, these methods have been associated with strong teachers who maintain high degrees of personal contact with learners. They can be utilized by students individually, in groups, or through virtually demonstrated experiments to conduct the required activities. In this area, PhET simulations offer dynamic access to multiple representations, making the invisible visible, scaffolding inquiry, and allowing for safe and quick access to multiple entry points while being engaging and fun for both teachers and students. PhET Interactive Simulations is an online and offline platform developed by the University of Colorado Boulder, featuring more than 159 interactive simulations (56 in Physics, 30 in Chemistry, 48 in Mathematics, 18 in Earth Science, and 7 in Biology) for teaching and learning science from elementary to higher levels. These simulations enable students to conduct experiments more flexibly and interactively using text, video, multimedia, animation, and simulations. They also aid in hands-on, activity-based skill training. This paper focuses on the application of PhET simulations in science education within the current context of digital education. It also examines the status of laboratories in India, the use of PhET simulations for science (Physics, Chemistry, and Biology), the steps involved in accessing and using PhET simulations, the importance of their design and procedures, and their implications for enhancing practical abilities, skills, and assessment.