Power of simulations:

• Interaction with student
• Simplifying situations to key ideas
• Creating otherwise non-accessable situations
• phyically imposible
• dangerous
• costly
• Complex math

Examples of good use:

• Obtaining information from problem (ice skater)
• Bridging representations to motion (Truck and trailer)
• “Seeing” (and manipulating) the invisible  (charge configuration)
• Simplifications for development (currents)
• “What’s wrong” problems (waves)

Don't use for:

• Merely "telling"
• Replacing "real life" (i.e. demos, lab experiences)
• Complex & non-intuitive set-ups