PhET review: free science simulations that make variables visible
The University of Colorado's free interactive science and maths simulations let pupils change one variable and see a system respond. Excellent for inquiry when a teacher supplies the question; simulations are not experiments on real materials.
Pros and cons
What we liked
- Free simulations across physics, chemistry, biology, earth science and maths
- Sliders, measuring tools and multiple representations make cause and effect visible
- Teacher activities and multilingual versions extend the core simulations
- HTML5 simulations can run in a browser and many can be downloaded for offline use
What we didn’t
- A simulated result is not a substitute for measurement error and messiness in a real lab
- Teachers must design a question and a follow-up; open exploration alone is not an assessment
- The optional Studio customisation product has its own licensing, unlike the core catalogue
PhET is a collection of research-based simulations from the University of Colorado Boulder. A learner can change a variable, watch a representation respond and repeat in seconds what might take an entire period with physical equipment. The site spans physics, mathematics, chemistry, biology and earth science.
A model you can ask questions of
PhET describes a design built around inquiry: drag objects, adjust sliders, measure with on-screen tools and compare graphical or numerical representations. A fractions simulation can help a learner connect a symbolic fraction with a shape; a circuit model can show changes too fast or too small to spot unaided.
The best lesson starts with a prediction: what happens if only one variable changes? Let students move the control, record what they observe, then explain why. Without that framing, a colourful model can become a very satisfying way to click around.
The limits of a clean world
PhET's about page says simulations are tested using student interviews and classroom observations, and that many HTML5 sims can run online or be downloaded. That makes it easier to plan around poor connectivity. It does not make the simulation a substitute for a real laboratory: there is no loose wire, badly calibrated ruler or unexplained anomaly to investigate.
- Check the particular simulation for downloadable and accessibility options rather than assuming every older Java or Flash entry works identically.
- Use teacher-submitted activities selectively; a good model still needs a good question.
- Distinguish Studio from the core library when discussing costs; Studio advertises separate trial and licence terms.
What it looks like
Questions people ask
Are PhET simulations free for schools?
Can students use PhET without an account?
Can it replace a practical experiment?
About the reviewer
Reviewed by
SharperMinds Editorial TeamSource-based reviews
Reviews of public product features, terms and teaching resources. No classroom trial is implied unless a review explicitly documents one.
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