Integrating videos into the curriculum
In the Physics classroom the most common way for me to use videos is as demonstrations. There are many demonstrations in Physics that are very difficult to perform, whether for cost, time, size, or safety reasons. However the Internet is a great source of video footage that can be used to demonstrate principles of Physics, whether from taped demonstrations or real life scenarios.
At times I also use videos for full explanation, supplementing or replacing lectured instruction. Following is a collection of video clips I have found helpful in the Physics classroom:
At times I also use videos for full explanation, supplementing or replacing lectured instruction. Following is a collection of video clips I have found helpful in the Physics classroom:
1. Introduction to Inertia
An explanation of the basics of inertia
More educational games & videos on Energy and Work at NeoK12.com
2. Introduction to Mass
A basic introduction to the concept of mass
More science games & videos on Energy and Work at NeoK12.com
3. Newton's first law
A couple videos demonstrating Newton's first law in action
4. Newton's third law
A couple videos demonstrating the power of action and reaction forces
5. Shoot a monkey
This classic physics demonstration is simple, yet very difficult to set up and perform. Lacking the right time and equipment, a video demonstration can show the concept.
6. Driven oscillator
Another simple demonstration that is not so easy to recreate. This shows students the frequency and amplitude response when an oscillator is driven below, at, and above its natural frequency.
7. Tacoma Narrows Bridge
In the same category as #6, this video shows the catastrophic results of resonance.
8. Glass shattering
More catastrophic resonance
9. Force between parallel current-carrying wires
Another simple demonstration that is very difficult to perform with standard lab equipment - in order to get good results you need very high currents.
10. Special Relativity
A few video resources explaining special relativity. These videos are very useful because this concept relies on imagining dynamic scenarios - it is very hard to convey the concepts of simultaneity and reference frames using static drawings on the board. Animations do a much better job explaining the thought experiments.
One great resource is the Mechanical Universe DVD set. This has a very good portion on the postulates of special relativity. If you do not have access to this resource, here are some others:
One great resource is the Mechanical Universe DVD set. This has a very good portion on the postulates of special relativity. If you do not have access to this resource, here are some others:
Two postulates of Special Relativity
Visualization of Special Relativity
Note: Great beginning; end is difficult to understand
Simultaneity
Lots more great Physics demos from MIT on YouTube at MIT TechTV