In an inquiry based investigation of the physics of airbag deployment in a head-on collision, video clips of crash tests give students a better idea of what happens to the car, the passenger, and airbag during the collision.
The Rationale Behind the Feature (Specific Design Principle):
Allow student freedom of viewing a fast process at any speed to enhance understanding
Connect subject matter to real world example
Allow opportunity for rigorous visual analysis
Context of Use:
Students use the video to estimate velocities, time indices, and relative positions and distances of vehicle, passenger, and airbag. Students investigate through simulations in what circumstances airbags can be dangerous. Students present their conclusions based on internet research, observations of video, and results of simulations.
Field-based Evidence:
Does presentation refer to accurate observations of the video?
Are measurements taken from the video accurate?
Pre- post-test improvements on items relevant to video content
Do student responses to activity prompts reflect careful observation of video?