Abstract:

PhET Interactive Simulations have emerged as a powerful tool for transforming STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) learning experiences, offering interactive, inquiry-based simulations that engage learners in dynamic exploration of scientific concepts. This systematic review synthesizes existing literature based on 42 reviewed articles published between 2010 and 2024, to examine the impact of PhET simulations on STEM education at scale. The review explores the effectiveness of PhET simulations in enhancing student learning outcomes, improving engagement, promoting conceptual understanding, and addressing diverse learner needs. Additionally, it investigates factors influencing the successful implementation of PhET simulations in various educational contexts and identifies gaps and opportunities for future research and practice. Findings indicate that incorporating both real and virtual experiments necessitates considering their unique functions for the learning task in addition to their respective affordances and learning objectives. The findings of this review provide valuable insights for educators, curriculum developers, and policymakers seeking to leverage technology-enhanced learning tools like PhET simulations to enhance STEM education on a large scale.

Keywords:

Conceptual understanding, Engagement, Learning outcomes, PhET Interactive Simulations, STEM education, Technology-enhanced learning.