Abstract:

During the last years, teaching methodologies in STEM-related subjects have been tending to shift towards manipulative and self-directed learning for deeper understanding and engagement of the students. Inquiry-based hands-on methods are replacing traditional rote learning and allowing students to explore, experiment, and find out concepts on their own. This change is being brought about by the growing realization that active learning—where students handle materials and engage directly with the subject—enhances critical thinking and solving skills. For instance, in chemistry, students can get to see the real chemical reaction rather than reading about it. In math, they work with manipulative elements, like geometrical shapes, to understand abstract ideas. Technology has also taken center stage in interactive simulations and exercises where students get to see information and manipulate it in real-time. These instructional methods not only dynamize learning with interactivity but also support different learning styles, thus ensuring a strong STEM foundation for all learners. They help students develop responsibility of their learning process, become more self-motivated, and better prepare for future challenges in science and technology.

Besides other sciences, in physics, experiments can drastically change the way the concepts are perceived and absorbed by students. In this work, we present a collection of self-study materials to be used by teachers and physics enthusiasts. The materials area set of self-study resources guiding the fabrication of devices that illustrate fundamental concepts in physics. These materials are useful for students and those interested in physics, providing detailed instructions regarding the construction of simple devices to demonstrate major principles of mechanics, fluids, and thermodynamics. The modules are preceded by theoretical overviews and backed by detailed construction plans, all aimed at reinforcing the physics behind them. Students play with the concrete to embark on abstract ideas, develop critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, putting theory into practice to make physics real, accessible, interactive, and immersive.

We have chosen the WebQuest methodology for the development of these materials. In the inquiry-based learning approach, students use the Internet to search for information and analyze it. A WebQuest is guided in nature and works toward developing critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills through assigned tasks and pre-selected online resources. It shifts from the traditional teacher-centered model to a more student-centered pedagogy, putting learners in a very active role in their education. In this, students work through the different parts of the WebQuest to build knowledge by themselves and collaboratively. This enhances digital literacy in a much more interesting and appropriate way for learning experiences taken from real contexts. The materials will be available and public shortly within the OpenCourseWare of the University of Zaragoza, in Spain.

Keywords:

WebQuest, self-learning, STEM education.