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Updated: Sep 16, 2025
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Problem-Solving Before Instruction PS-I: A Protocol for Assessment and Intervention in Students with Different Abilities
Published on: September 11, 2021
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Flipping a simulation before instruction can improve students' learning, interest and perceived competence.
Marci S DeCaro1, Derek K McClellan1,2, Ryan Patrick1
1University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, USA.
The British Journal of Educational Psychology
|July 9, 2025
Summary
Exploring science simulations before lectures enhances student learning and motivation. This explore-first approach, especially with ample time, boosts conceptual understanding and engagement compared to traditional lecture-first methods.
Area of Science:
- Science Education
- Chemistry Education
Background:
- Simulations in science instruction make abstract concepts concrete.
- Effective use of simulations can enhance student understanding and engagement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the learning and motivational benefits of using simulations before lectures versus after lectures.
- To investigate the impact of simulation order on student outcomes in a first-year chemistry course.
Main Methods:
- Undergraduate students were randomly assigned to either an explore-first or instruct-first simulation condition.
- Two experiments were conducted with varying simulation activity times and prompt inclusion.
- Student learning, motivation, and engagement were assessed via surveys and posttests.
Main Results:
- Experiment 1 (limited time) showed explore-first resulted in lower conceptual knowledge and curiosity.
- Experiment 2 (extended time) revealed explore-first led to higher conceptual knowledge, transfer, curiosity, and engagement.
- Self-explanation prompts did not significantly affect outcomes in Experiment 1.
Conclusions:
- Placing simulations before lectures can significantly improve learning and motivation when designed effectively.
- Extended engagement with simulations prior to instruction deepens competence and cognitive engagement.
- The timing and design of simulation activities are critical for maximizing educational benefits.
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