Resources for the teaching of the simple pendulum: images, measurements, simulations and teaching guides

Abstract

The analysis of the simple pendulum is included in all introductory physics courses (classical mechanics) and at all educational levels. However, one finds deficiencies in the students comprehension of the model. Basic aspects like the representation of the relative values of the forces that act upon the oscillating mass are usually treated incorrectly. Some conceptual errors that students show may be a consequence of the wrong or confusing images presented in introductory physics textbooks. On the other hand, one finds that the use of resources based on ICT (Information and Communication Technologies) like, for instance, simple experimental measurements based on electronic digital instruments, or computer simulations, as well as an active methodology in the classroom, may help in overcoming these educational deficits.