The idea of using a dice game to simulate radioactive decay is not new.1 However, modern pedagogy encourages, if not requires, us to provide multiple representations and visualizations2 for our students. The advantage of interactive engagement methods also has been made clear.3 Here we describe a highly visual and interactive use of dice to develop student understanding of radioactive decay.
REFERENCES
1.
L.
Kowalski
, “Simulating radioactive decay with dice
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For example see,
A.
Van Heuvelen
and X.
Zou
, “Multiple representations of work—energy processes
,” Am. J. Phys.
69
, 184
–194
(Feb. 2001
).3.
R.
Hake
, “Interactive‐engagement versus traditional methods: A six‐thousand‐student survey of mechanics test data for introductory physics courses
,” Am. J. Phys.
66
, 64
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(Jan. 1998
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For example see U.C. Berkeley Physics Lecture Demonstrations at http://www.mip.berkeley.edu/physics/B+60+0.html.
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© 2010 American Association of Physics Teachers.
2010
American Association of Physics Teachers
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