PRELIMINARY EXAMINATION OF TEACHERS' ATTITUDES TO TEACHING APPROACHES IN THE PROCESSING OF CONTENT ON WEIGHTLESSNESS

Abstract

This study explores teaching approaches and understanding of the concept of weightlessness among physics teachers in the context of secondary schools. The research objective was to analyze how teachers present and explain the concept of weightlessness and what methods they use in their teaching to promote understanding among students. For the purpose of the study, a group of teachers who were interested in cooperating completed a questionnaire consisting of questions about their understanding of weightlessness, ways in which they present it in their teaching, and methods for assessing students' understanding. Additionally, teachers had the opportunity to share their experiences in using demonstration experiments and other teaching resources that aid in explaining this concept.
The analysis of teachers' responses indicated diversity in their definition of weightlessness and their understanding of weight and mass as different concepts. While some teachers successfully integrated the concept of weightlessness into their teaching and conveyed it to students, others faced challenges in explaining and understanding this concept.
Teachers employed various methods to assess students' understanding, including asking questions related to the definition and examples of weightlessness, the difference between weight and the force of gravity, the influence of other forces, and situations leading to weightlessness. Moreover, it is notable that teachers used a range of demonstration experiments and online resources to illustrate and elucidate this concept to students. This included the use of PhET simulations, video recordings from space stations, and various physics websites.
The discussion of the research findings highlights the need for further research and development of teaching approaches to enhance understanding and learning about weightlessness among secondary school students. It is crucial for teachers to have a clear and precise understanding of this concept in order to effectively convey knowledge and encourage students to gain a deeper understanding of the topic. Additionally, the importance of utilizing diverse teaching resources and methods that can aid in visualizing and providing practical experiences of weightlessness is emphasized. Further research in this field can focus on the development and evaluation of effective teaching approaches and strategies for better understanding weightlessness among students. Additionally, other physics-related topics that require further investigation and the development of teaching approaches can be explored.
Overall, the perspective of this study is promising as it provides a foundation for further research and improvement of teaching approaches related to physics, particularly concerning the concept of weightlessness.