Three Dimensional Models in Electricity and Magnetism: Electronic Ink

Science concepts that are represented by one dimensional and static pictures are a lot better than making students IMAGINE them. It is even better if three dimensional models are used because our daily life experiences involve objects that are three dimensional. For instance, the mechanism of electronic ink (an application of the principle that like charges repel and unlike charges attract) as explained by Cutnell & Johnson (2012) may come alive by affording students the opportunity to collaborate with each other in making a three dimensional model. How does one facilitate this? First, you need to discuss the model as a class. Then students are grouped to plan their model using readily available materials. Third, they give their presentation. Fourth, a debriefing is given by the professor to discuss with the class the limitations of the models. The following pictures show my students and their models.