Digital manual to enhance the educational use of PhET simulators in high school biology

Abstract

Introduction: In the current context of educational digital transformation, virtual simulators have become key tools to promote the meaningful learning of complex content in subjects such as Biology. This research was conducted at the Don Bosco de La Tola Educational Unit in Quito, Ecuador. Objectives: The main objective is to determine the impact of the use of an interactive digital manual, developed in the Canva tool, which guides the pedagogical use of PhET simulators in the teaching of Biology to third-year high school students. Methodology: Under a mixed methodological approach, applied, descriptive and quasi-experimental, quantitative techniques (pre-test and post-test, Likert-type surveys) and qualitative techniques (semi-structured interviews and observation rubrics) were integrated, with a stratified random sample composed of an experimental group and a control group, in addition to the participation of a teacher in the validation process. Results: The results showed that 71.43% of the students had already used simulators, although their frequent use was limited; 82.14% considered that these resources contributed significantly to the learning of Biology. Likewise, technical barriers were identified in the use of simulators, which reinforces the need for complementary pedagogical materials and digital training. The manual was valued for its clarity, functionality, and didactic contribution, promoting the understanding of abstract phenomena and strengthening skills such as critical thinking and problem solving. Conclusions: In conclusion, this research not only validates the effectiveness of the use of simulators in educational environments but also offers a concrete and innovative proposal to improve the didactics of the subject through the effective integration of accessible digital technologies, adapted to the Ecuadorian school context. General Area of Study: Natural Sciences. Specific area of study: Biology. Type of study: Original article.