WhatsApp Contribution to Physics Studies

• In Event: Poster Session 5
  In Poster Session: Science Teaching and Learning SIG Poster Session

Abstract

Social networks serve as a learning environment and are used in science education. This study evaluated the content of conversations in a WhatsApp group of high-school physics students (goals, topics, hours, and who participated) and the role of the physics teacher in the group in order to evaluate the value of this tool for physics instruction. The findings demonstrate that the use of WhatsApp contributed to the understanding of physics concepts. The students used WhatsApp to further their physics’ knowledge. They asked questions, asked one another for help, and shared solutions. It also broadened the role of the teacher beyond the classroom by the teacher’s guidance, the creation of a supportive atmosphere and the creation of a learning community.
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Authors

• Aviva Klieger, Beit Berl College

• LIHI Goldsmith