In Internet you can find a lot of different simulators for investigation of relationship between resistance, voltage and current in circuits. In this course we choose Falstad that is accessible online and freely-distributed.

Application access: http://www.falstad.com/circuit_es/ (Spanish)

Application access: http://www.falstad.com/circuit/ (English)

The aim of this activity is integration of simulation in the student activity, although the application is simple and intuitive. The student can choose circuits developed in the application, but they can also create their own ones.

Below figure shows a circuit and its simulation. In order to choose a device for circuit the right button on the mouse should be used. The left button includes and connects it to the circuit. The process is very intuitive, and requires patience from students. When the cursor is pointed on a wire of the circuit the corresponding voltage and current values are displayed.

Simulation of the circuit

Using the Falstad simulator, the student can find the solution for many exercises considered. However, they have to understand that this is simulation; real signal does not exist and therefore cannot be measured. Although Falstad is flexible, the VISIR is a tool allowing measure and observe the real circuits.

Thus the student has three tools in order to solve a circuit: mathematical models (pencil and paper), the simulator (computer) and the real experiment (remote laboratory). All these can be used either combined or separately. The fact that the same situation can be explore from different standpoints enriches the student knowledge and understanding.

Below is shown a more complex example:

Simulation of the circuit (2)