Using the Internet for plasma physics education

The current reform in K-12 science education emphasizes the creation of curricula that are student-led, hands-on, and open-ended. This trend is based on current research examining the best practice in science learning and teaching. Computers are an important part of this change and the Internet adds a unique dimension to the possible ways that computers can be used as a learning tool. The Internet Plasma Physics Educational Experience (IPPEX) was created and modeled upon these principles to teach middle and high school students plasma physics and fusion energy. Sections include a virtual tokamak, analysis of data from the TFTR experimental, and “ask a scientist”