Share Paper: Learning Classic Mechanics with Embodied Cognition

  1. Shih-Chieh Huang, Teachers College, Columbia University, United States
  2. Tanner Vea, Teacher College, Columbia University, United States
  3. John Black, Teacher College, Columbia University, United States
Tuesday, October 18 11:15-11:35 AM Ni'ihau

Abstract: This paper describes a study on the teaching of classic mechanics as an abstract physics concept to elementary school students using embodied cognition. The embodiment is implemented through Novint Falcon, a 3-D force feedback joystick. Students were asked to learn classic mechanics by using the Novint Falcon to interact with a Flash simulation that incorporates direct-manipulation animation (DMA). It is believed that embodied cognition supported by multimodal representation is essential in helping students form a mental modal that can be used to learn classic mechanics. The goal of this study is to examine whether students can learn classic mechanics better ...