Using a Low Cost Indentation Apparatus for the Study of Mechanical Properties of Thermoinsulating Materials and its Util
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Using a Low Cost Indentation Apparatus for the Study of Mechanical Properties of Thermoinsulating Materials and its Utilization in the Laboratory Practice of Students. Tsihouridis A. Charilaos 1, Polatoglou M. Hariton 2 1
School of Special Education, University of Thessaly, Argonafton & Filellinon, 38221, Volos, Greece. 2
Physics Department, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece.
ABSTRACT In the present work we describe an experimental apparatus of very low cost , aiming at the experimental study of the mechanical properties of solid materials, using the method of indentation. The measurements allow, through a simple analysis, the quantitative determination of the materials’ hardness and bulk modulus. A very important class of commonly used materials, namely thermoinsulating materials, is proposed for a case study. The method can furthermore be used to demonstrate the elastic and the plastic behavior of materials. The educational exploitation of the specific apparatus at a technical high school class in Larissa (Greece) and at a university physics students’ laboratory practice on the subject of mechanical properties of materials are also described. The responses of the students on the whole process, and specifically on observations related to the pedagogical-educational aspects (active participation, challenge of interest, easiness of measurements, easiness of processing experimental data), as well as related to metrological aspects (uncertainty of measurements), were very positive and are also presented and discussed. INTRODUCTION Laboratory activities are defined as learning experiences, in which students interact with models and/or materials in order to observe and understand the natural world and at the same time constitute an excellent medium for the introduction of scientific concepts. It is believed however that meaningful learning can result in only when we give students the opportunity to operate laboratory equipment or materials, thus, participating in the construction of their own knowledge of science and enhancing their conceptual scientific learning. Furthermore, researchers have pointed out that, techniques or methods of laboratory activities should be used by students to investigate phenomena, solve problems or enhance their active participation, positive attitudes and interest on scientific concepts becoming researchers themselves, in contrast to being passive learners [1-6]. In addition, laboratory training is very important, not only for the development of students’ practical skills, but also for the development of their cooperative skills which lead to a better conceptual understanding. Above all, it simulates in a way their future workplace, which is very useful, especially for students of technical professions [6-8]. The importance of High School/University students’ appropriate laboratory practice has been pointed out by all experts and is considered basic for their education. At the same time, a lot of problems, during the laboratory practice, have b
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