A utilização do Tinkercad como proposta metodológica para aprendizagem significativa de eletricidade

Abstract

Physics teaching is often associated with learning difficulties, largely due to the excessive mathematization of contents, lack of conceptual focus and scarcity of resources for laboratory experimentation. To face this challenge, teachers need to constantly reinvent themselves and seek methodologies that favor meaningful student learning. Practical classes in the laboratory are an excellent tool for this, but it is necessary to have an adequate foundation to avoid damage to materials arising from the erroneous connection of components or improper handling of equipment. This background can be obtained, for example, with an introduction to the content and basic components prior to experimental classes through virtual simulators or digital learning objects (ODAs). In this context, the Tinkercad platform, which is a platform focused on programming and electrical simulations, has shown great potential for teaching electrical and electronic circuits through virtual simulation. Thus, this work aims to use the Tinkercad platform as an ODA acting as a previous organizer to contribute to the teaching of contents of the subject of experimental physics III. The study consisted of building a previous organizer with 5 experiments on the Tinkercad platform. These experiments were used as a basis for physics classes before the construction of experiments in the physical laboratory. The research included an intervention in an undergraduate class of Engineering Physics, using the platform as a methodological basis. Then, a comparative analysis of the results between two groups was carried out: research participants and non-participants. The final objective was to make a conclusive analysis on the use of Tinkercad as a previous organizer. The results showed that using the Tinkercad platform as a prior organizer for experimental classes was effective, resulting in better student performance in classroom activities and a deeper understanding of electricity content. This suggests that the use of ODAs, such as the Tinkercad platform, can be a useful alternative for the previous organization of experimental classes in other disciplines that involve the use of electrical circuits. The study highlights the importance of technology as a pedagogical tool to enhance student learning and encourage active participation in the classroom.