E learning Physics: a didactic simulation about heat flow and temperature difference between the environment and a house

Abstract

Ιn this paper we describe the creation of an educational website for internet users with an interest in Physics. The context of this website is the heat flux from the external environment to an interior space, for example a house, which features are chosen by the user. The educational scenario aims at a creative and imaginative rendering of the theory on the subject. The presentation of the evaluation of the user's predictions on the outcome of the experiment, as a mean of the user's feedback, and the easy and pleasant presentation of the virtual experiment design were the requirements for the design of the training scenario. Through the page structure (theory - experiment / simulation - exercises), the user is guided through a smooth process of learning from a distance, with the possibility of self-evaluation, without the physical presence of a teacher. The interaction with the teacher can be done by e mail.