PROBLEM-BASED LEARNING WITH VIDEO ANALYSIS: THE CASE OF THE VARIABLE-MASS ATWOOD MACHINE.

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Bibliographic Details
Title: PROBLEM-BASED LEARNING WITH VIDEO ANALYSIS: THE CASE OF THE VARIABLE-MASS ATWOOD MACHINE.
Alternate Title: APRENDIZAJE BASADO EN PROBLEMAS CON ANÁLISIS DE VIDEO: EL CASO DE LA MÁQUINA DE ATWOOD DE MASA VARIABLE.
Authors: J. L. SAQUINAULA-BRITO1 jsaquinaulab@unemi.edu.ect, J. J. PLAZA-SANTILLÁN1, J. D. ORTIZ-MATA1, E. A. LAMILLA-RUBIO1,2 ealamill@espol.edu.ec
Source: Revista Cubana de Física. 12/15/2025, Vol. 42 Issue 2, p87-95. 9p.
Subjects: PROBLEM-based learning, PHYSICS education, STEM education, DYNAMICAL systems, ACTIVE learning, MOTION analysis
Abstract (English): This study applies Problem-Based Learning (PBL) to teaching advanced mechanics in undergraduate physics, focusing on variable mass systems through the Atwood machine with chains. Using the Hmelo-Silver PBL model, a structured sequence guided students in problem analysis, hypothesis generation, self-directed study, experimentation, and reflection. The case study combined Newtonian and Lagrangian modeling with experimental validation via Tracker video analysis, enabling students to connect theoretical derivations with accessible empirical data. Results showed strong consistency between theoretical predictions and experimental measurements, despite minor discrepancies from chain oscillations, link impacts, and video resolution limitations. The approach demonstrated how low-cost tools can effectively support experimental inquiry in physics education. Beyond content knowledge, PBL fostered research-oriented skills such as autonomous planning, problem-solving, and collaborative inquiry. The proposed framework provides a replicable model for integrating abstract theory with experimental practice, strengthening active learning and advancing the role of inquiry-based methodologies in STEM curricula. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Abstract (Spanish): Este estudio aplica el Aprendizaje Basado en Problemas (ABP) a la enseñanza de mecánica avanzada en la física universitaria, centrándose en sistemas de masa variable a través de la máquina de Atwood con cadenas. Utilizando el modelo ABP de Hmelo-Silver, se guió a los estudiantes mediante una secuencia estructurada de análisis del problema, generación de hipótesis, estudio autodirigido, experimentación y reflexión. El estudio de caso combinó el modelado newtoniano y lagrangiano con una validación experimental mediante análisis de video con Tracker. Los resultados mostraron una consistencia entre las predicciones teóricas y las mediciones experimentales, a pesar de pequeñas discrepancias debidas a las oscilaciones de la cadena, impactos entre eslabones y limitaciones en la resolución del video. El enfoque demostró como herramientas de bajo costo pueden apoyar eficazmente la indagación experimental en la enseñanza de la física. Mas allá del conocimiento de contenido, el ABP fomentó habilidades orientadas a la investigación, como la planificación autónoma, la resolución de problemas y la indagación colaborativa. El marco propuesto ofrece un modelo replicable para integrar la teoría abstracta con la practica experimental, fortaleciendo el aprendizaje activo y promoviendo el papel de las metodologías basadas en la indagación en los programas STEM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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Database: MedicLatina
Description
Abstract:This study applies Problem-Based Learning (PBL) to teaching advanced mechanics in undergraduate physics, focusing on variable mass systems through the Atwood machine with chains. Using the Hmelo-Silver PBL model, a structured sequence guided students in problem analysis, hypothesis generation, self-directed study, experimentation, and reflection. The case study combined Newtonian and Lagrangian modeling with experimental validation via Tracker video analysis, enabling students to connect theoretical derivations with accessible empirical data. Results showed strong consistency between theoretical predictions and experimental measurements, despite minor discrepancies from chain oscillations, link impacts, and video resolution limitations. The approach demonstrated how low-cost tools can effectively support experimental inquiry in physics education. Beyond content knowledge, PBL fostered research-oriented skills such as autonomous planning, problem-solving, and collaborative inquiry. The proposed framework provides a replicable model for integrating abstract theory with experimental practice, strengthening active learning and advancing the role of inquiry-based methodologies in STEM curricula. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
ISSN:02539268