Use of digital tools and their impact on cognitive capabilities of student

---

Isn't it so boring when we as teachers, teaching our students with text books and with a white board only. In the era of Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Simulators and VR Technology, the teachers still lack proper use of these devices while teaching students in schools. The learning is only possible when it has some kind of twist!in it. That twist leads to curiosity regarding the topic, and student gets attracted toward it's fundamental concept. Hence, to spark that curiosity which further lead a student to be creative and innovative is based on the clear visuals and experiments. Some times we cannot or unable to perform experiment or practice it live, then we use simulators, augmented reality, virtual reality, or any 3D graphics to represent that topic with some charisma of fun and excitement.

In my class along with other digital apps and platforms, I mostly use PhET simulator developed by University of Buffalo Colorado, USA. The project acronym "PhET" originally stood for "Physics Education Technology," but PhET soon expanded to many other disciplines. PhET provides fun, free, interactive, research-based science and mathematics simulations. It extensively test and evaluate each simulation to ensure educational effectiveness. These tests include student interviews and observation of simulation use in classrooms.

In my classroom, my students practice the exercise on spot on PhET. The glory of this platform is it's availability on both desktop and android platforms with free access. My students have performed many experiments under different variable situations and conditions of PhET simulator. Their learning experience have drastically increased and now even their parents have installed such apps on their mobile phones as interacting with their kids to foster learning back at home with their parents.

Lastly, this simulator is just a simple free software accessible to everyone on their phones and computers, has enhanced the learning environment and made a significant impact on learning process. Specifically, improving the cognitive capabilities of student to observe live experiments.

I am ready to connect with other fellows, to broaden my knowledge regarding other apps and platforms freely available for our students.
Thank you so much for reading my column. I really appreciate it.
Thank you for reading

@Uzaif-Talpur Thank you for your column on digital tools in education. I agree that technology like PhET simulators can greatly enhance learning by making experiments interactive and engaging. I’m eager to learn about other tools and platforms that can complement our teaching methods. If you have any recommendations or insights, I’d love to hear them.Thanks again for sharing your experience!

Best regards,

@Uzaif-Talpur very informative and helpful guide sir .

@Uzaif-Talpur Thanks for sharing. How do you think this tool can help in fields of learning a language?

@Uzaif-Talpur
It’s great to hear that you used the PhET simulator to explain the topic of magnetism so effectively! PhET simulations are excellent tools for making complex concepts more accessible and engaging, especially for students who might struggle with traditional explanations.

By using a digital tool like the PhET simulator, you can visually demonstrate how magnetic fields work, allowing students to see the effects of magnets in real time. This visual and interactive approach is particularly helpful for students at a level C.
In your explanation, you likely took advantage of the simulator's ability to show the direction and strength of magnetic fields, the interaction between different magnets, and the effects on various material.
This kind of teaching technique is valuable in making science more accessible and enjoyable for all students.

@Uzaif-Talpur

Hi @Uzaif-Talpur
Hope everything is going well.

Thank you for sharing your experience and insights. It's so refreshing to read about how you're integrating modern technology like the PhET simulator into your teaching. You're absolutely right, traditional methods alone can sometimes fall short in sparking that curiosity and excitement in students. By using tools like simulators, VR, and 3D graphics, you're not only making learning more engaging but also more accessible, especially when live experiments aren't possible.

I was looking for Phet to know more and looks very nice and visual for visual learners... in such a difficult topic. Thank you @Uzaif-Talpur

Best,
Mr. Bryan

@Uzaif-Talpur
You have wriiten good article on the use of digital tools and their impact on cognitive capabilities of students. You shared good experience of using PhET. I appreciate your post.

@Tabassumlaghari I appreciate your kind reply. This is just one of the free apps, but there are thousands of other apps and free resources like GitHub and Microsoft Teacher Hub.

@Mariam Thank you Mariam for your kind appreciation.

@Adel-8d693e36c4 Dear Adel, there are thousands of ways to use this app, almost every typical science experiment of 8th grade is available to simulate. You can visit their website for better understanding.
https://phet.colorado.edu/en/simulations/browse

@BRYANb8875625e5 Thank you so much, Bryan, for your kind words. I always try to transfer my knowledge and learning to other fellows. The only thing which I like about this tool is it's smooth controls. No one needs advanced information and skills to use this tool, as it is free and too easy to operate. I also appreciate that you tried this tool.

@Uroosa-memon Thank you Uroosa, I really appreciate your kind support.

@Uzaif-Talpur Thanks for mentioning other apps. Surely I will visit these.

@Uzaif-Talpur Dear Talpur,
Using a digital tool such as the PhET simulator, you can vividly illustrate how magnetic fields operate, enabling students to observe the effects of magnets in real time. This interactive approach not only enhances understanding but also engages students by bringing abstract concepts to life.

@Uzaif-Talpur In my view, the use of digital tools in education offers both tremendous opportunities and challenges for the cognitive development of students. On the positive side, digital tools have the potential to enhance cognitive capabilities by providing dynamic, interactive learning experiences. Tools like educational apps, simulations, and online platforms allow students to engage with material in ways that promote critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. The ability to visualize abstract concepts, conduct virtual experiments, and access a wealth of information instantly can deepen understanding and stimulate intellectual curiosity.

However, the impact of digital tools is not uniformly positive. There are concerns that overreliance on technology may affect students’ attention spans and memory retention. Constant access to information can lead to superficial learning, where students may prioritize speed over depth of understanding. The distraction of multiple digital tools can also impact focus, which is essential for deep cognitive engagement. Additionally, students may lose some of the critical thinking skills developed through independent research, as digital tools often provide immediate answers.

Ultimately, I believe digital tools, when used thoughtfully and with balance, can significantly enhance cognitive capabilities. The key is to integrate them in ways that promote deeper engagement with content, encourage active problem-solving, and complement traditional learning approaches, rather than replacing them entirely.

@ZOEUNd75c40329e
According to me, it is difficult to imagine the 21st century without digital education.