What is PhET Interactive Simulations?
PhET Interactive Simulations is a University of Colorado project that makes science and maths simulations for learning by exploring. Instead of reading about a circuit or a pendulum, you change the settings and watch what happens. The sims cover physics, chemistry, biology, earth and space science, and maths and statistics.
The project tests each simulation with students, including interviews and classroom observation, to check that it teaches well. Most run in the browser in HTML5, some older ones use Java or Flash, and all are open source. Many are translated into other languages, and teachers can also share activities built around them.
Main Features
- Simulations in physics, chemistry, biology, earth and space science, and maths
- Runs in the browser, with no account needed for the sims
- Tested with students through interviews and classroom observation
- Open source code
- Translated versions of the simulations
- Teacher activities and virtual workshops
- PhET Studio for customising sims, under a paid licence
How to Get Started with PhET Interactive Simulations
- Open phet.colorado.edu in your browser.
- Choose a subject under Simulations.
- Pick a simulation and press play to launch it.
- Change the controls and watch how the system responds.
- If you teach, browse the Teaching section for activities.
PhET Interactive Simulations Pricing
The simulations are free to use online or to download. PhET Studio, the tool for customising sims and presets, is a paid licence with a free trial.
Who Should Use It?
- Science and maths teachers who want classroom demonstrations
- School and university students
- Parents helping with homework
- Self-learners who understand things better by experimenting
PhET Interactive Simulations Alternatives
- GeoGebra gives you free graphing, geometry and maths tools in the browser.
- Desmos is a graphing calculator that runs in the browser.
- Khan Academy teaches maths and science through lessons and practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PhET Interactive Simulations free?
The simulations themselves are free to run and download. PhET Studio, used to customise sims, needs a paid licence and has a free trial.
Do I need an account?
No account is needed to run the simulations. Registering is for extras such as bookmarks and contributing activities.
What subjects does PhET cover?
Physics, chemistry, biology, earth and space science, and maths and statistics.
Who makes PhET?
It comes from the University of Colorado, and sponsors support the project.