Historical Background and Introduction to PhET

PhET Interactive Simulations is a pioneering initiative that originated at the University of Colorado Boulder in 2002. The project was founded by Carl Wieman, a Nobel Laureate in Physics, with the mission of enhancing science and mathematics education through interactive, research-based simulations. Initially focused on physics education—hence the name PhET (Physics Education Technology)—the project later expanded to include simulations for chemistry, biology, earth science, and mathematics.

PhET’s approach is grounded in educational research, emphasizing inquiry-based learning, where students explore scientific concepts through interactive, game-like experiences. The simulations are designed using pedagogical best practices, ensuring that learners grasp fundamental principles intuitively. The project has received funding from organizations such as the National Science Foundation (NSF), Google, and the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, allowing PhET to grow into a globally recognized educational resource.

PhET Website Overview: https://phet.colorado.edu

The official PhET Interactive Simulations website is a free and open-access platform that provides over 150 interactive simulations covering a broad range of STEM topics. The website’s features include:

• Browse and Download Simulations
  Users can access simulations in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Earth Science, and Biology, available for use online or as downloadable applications. These simulations are designed for K-12 students, university students, and educators.
• Device Compatibility
  Many simulations are built using HTML5, making them accessible across various devices, including laptops, tablets, Chromebooks, and mobile phones.
• Educational Resources
  PhET provides teacher-contributed lesson plans, worksheets, and guided activities that integrate simulations into classroom instruction. These resources are aligned with educational standards, including the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and Common Core.
• Multiple Languages
  Simulations are available in over 90 languages, making PhET an invaluable resource for educators and students worldwide.
• Customization for Educators
  Teachers can create customized lessons and share interactive activities, enhancing classroom engagement.
• Research-Based Design
  PhET’s simulations are grounded in cognitive science research, ensuring that students actively engage with concepts rather than passively receiving information.
• Community and Support
  The website fosters an active educator community, where teachers can exchange best practices, lesson ideas, and strategies for using simulations effectively in their classrooms.

Significance of PhET in STEM Education

PhET has transformed STEM education by:

• Making abstract scientific principles more tangible through visual and interactive experiences.
• Encouraging student-driven inquiry and experimentation.
• Providing a free, accessible alternative to traditional laboratory experiments.
• Enhancing distance learning and hybrid education models.

With millions of users worldwide, PhET continues to be a leading resource for interactive, engaging, and research-backed science and mathematics education.

Visit PhET Interactive Simulations to explore its vast collection of STEM learning tools.

PhET Demos

Below are some demonstrations of how PhET Simulations can be used to teach STEM/STEAM Students.  These simulations can be found at: PhET: Free online physics, chemistry, biology, earth science and math simulations