A simulation is a research or teaching technique that reproduces actual events and processes under test conditions.  We use simulations all the time in our teaching techniques.  One of my favorites is the “Oh Deer!” game from Project WILD, allowing participants to become part of a deer population and watch the population fluctuate under various conditions.  It is a great way to model the concept of carrying capacity, or the number of living organisms that a region can support without environmental degradation.  Georgia DNR has developed an “Oh Deer!” card game, just in case educators can’t be outside and do the traditional activity with students.  These simulations are great to show populations increases and decreases – without needing to utilize actual deer.  I call this a win-win.

Other simulations may be based in a virtual learning environment.  These simulations allow participants to explore different concepts and change variables, being able to see first-hand how these variances can affect outcomes.  Some concepts are very hard to model in real-life … light reflecting and refracting, energy changing forms, and different types of waves.  However, virtual simulations are great ways to explore these ideas!  The Science Education Resource Center (SERC) at Carleton College shares some great reasons why simulations can be successfully implemented in learning environments.

PhET is a free, online, interactive resource provided by the University of Colorado at Boulder.  These research-based simulations focus on science and math concepts.  Within the science fields, the simulations include biology, earth science, chemistry, and physics.  The simulations are written in Java, Flash, or HTML5, and can be run online or downloaded to your computer.  There are currently more than 150 simulations translated into 93 languages.  You can also search the simulations by sub-topics and grade levels.

Some of my favorite simulations connected to some favorite concepts taught in traditional 4-H club meetings include:

PhET also includes tips for integrating the simulations into your lessons. 

What is PhET? A short introduction to the PhET simulations.
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