Using Tracker as a pedagogical tool for understanding projectile motion

Abstract

This article reports on the use of Tracker as a pedagogical tool in the effective learning and teaching of projectile motion in physics. When a computer model building learning process is supported and driven by video analysis data, this free Open Source Physics tool can provide opportunities for students to engage in active enquiry-based learning. We discuss the pedagogical use of Tracker to address some common misconceptions concerning projectile motion by allowing students to test their hypothesis by juxtaposing their mental models against the analysis of real-life videos. Initial research findings suggest that allowing learners to relate abstract physics concepts to real life through coupling computer modelling with traditional video analysis could be an innovative and effective way to learn projectile motion.