Improving teaching techniques using Visual Python: A case study in physics laboratories

In order to describe physics phenomena, science develops sophisticated models that use mathematical and formal program languages. When a phenomenon is not accessible to our sense, its description is indirect and understanding can be difficult for students. When one succeed to obtain a direct visualization of a phenomenon inaccessible to sense, it is possible to get a deeper understanding since a very effective channel of learning is involved. Using a variety of visualization tools for teaching and learning science is necessary for students to better understand physics phenomena and formulate appropriate mental models. Here, a simple rendering tool for 3D objects and graphs is presented which is aimed at students with minimal programming background. The purpose of the presented study is to determine the role of simple computer codes to improve the teaching techniques for physics laboratories. Students learn the importance of a virtual laboratory as a visualization element when addressing physics contents within science classes. From the basic atomic physics to nuclear physics, from the magnetic field to the electric field, many phenomena can be suitable for creating 3d visualization that allow capturing a greater perception of the physical world.