3-D Mental Modelling? Algodoo is for you!
Community Review for Algodoo
My Take
Algodoo is a great tool for learners to enjoy visual representations of physics in motion. Similarly, like many sandbox simulations that allows the users to experiment different concepts of physics, its interface is friendly for any learner using this application to develop 2-D models of basic to advanced concepts. With the given tutorials for learners to use the basics of Algodoo is provided for the student, it becomes the scaffolding step for creating more complex demonstrations and models for the properties of physics to take place.
How I Use It
During a science module of covering the concept of gravity, Algodoo was a great tool for demonstrating to students how mass is affected and interacts with gravity. By creating a Rube Goldberg contraption, I demonstrated how water travels from the beginning of the Rube Goldberg contraption with using pistons, moving carts with suspension, conveyor belts, pulley’s, etc. The students were able to see how water travels along different obstacles, interfering with different devices as it travels along the Rube Goldberg contraption. Using the Algodoo application allowed students to visually see the concept of gravity taking place with a two-dimensional perspective. However, it’s limited if students don’t have the key knowledge to understand the concepts of physics taking place.