Virtual Physics Experiment: An alternative approach for teaching and learning

The current implementation of traditional hands-on laboratory work is limited to the physical
constraints of time and space. Other concerns include dequate equipment and safety hazard of
laboratory work are also deterring the effectiveness of the experiments. Online experiment can be an
alternative approach in implementing laboratory experiments where students can participate
interactively and experience physics theories just as they are taught by textbook, lectures and labs.
This paper presents a virtual physics experiment as an alternative approach in teaching and learning.
The development of an online experiment has taken into consideration of scientific discovery learning
approach that will provide students with exploratory learning environment. Through software
development life cycle model and prototype approach, t online experiment will be developed using
Easy Java Simulation, Java Development Kit and Photoshop. Prototyping development methodology
has also been adapted in the development of the system Functional and integration testing has been
conducted and result will be presented.