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LEGO-Based Physics Lab : The Potential of LEGO Bricks for Modeling in Physics
Donaire Gonzalez, David
Donaire Gonzalez, David
Author
Abstract
In this article, I show the potential of LEGO bricks for modeling in physics, particularly focusing on phenomena typically covered in introductory laboratory courses. I illustrate how LEGO bricks can be used to represent parabolic trajectories, free-body diagrams (FBDs), and oscillation graphs. Additionally, I demonstrate how LEGO bricks can be used to design and assemble various experimental setups, with a special emphasis on modeling the modified Atwood machine and two spring-coupled masses. Furthermore, I demonstrate how to use LEGO bricks to map the electric potential of two-point charges for modeling equipotential curves in conjunction with their 3D representation. These demonstrative examples can be applied to several topics covered in university-level physics laboratory courses, such as kinematics, mechanics, and electromagnetism. By doing so, LEGO bricks can effectively support inquiry-based learning and multiple representations, thus reinforcing students’ comprehension of physics concepts while fostering their modeling abilities, creativity, and motivation in the subject.
Keywords
LEGO, Teaching, physics, modeling
Date
2024
Type
Journal article
Journal
The Physics Teacher
Book
Volume
62
Issue
6
Page Range
435-439
Article Number
ACU Department
Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research
Faculty of Health Sciences
Faculty of Health Sciences
Collections
Relation URI
Event URL
Open Access Status
License
All rights reserved
File Access
Controlled
Notes
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