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Simulation selection guide

PhET Alternative: Free SciFunLab Simulations

Compare free browser simulation options and choose the right SciFunLab lab by learning goal, controls, evidence, accessibility, and model scope.

Open the SciFunLab alternative guide →

Browse the existing comparison page and jump into published simulations.

Start with the model

Concept overview

PhET is a respected interactive-simulation project, not a problem SciFunLab needs to imitate or disparage. Learners and teachers may still need different topics, lightweight browser access, guided investigations, specialised engineering or computing models, or a second representation of the same concept. SciFunLab is one free alternative collection for those situations, with its own scope and strengths.

Choose a simulation by the learning objective rather than by brand. Check whether the controls expose the variable you need, whether output can support a measurement or explanation, whether instructions and keyboard access fit the learners, and whether the page states assumptions and limitations. This guide links directly to SciFunLab's published catalogue and topic destinations; it does not claim feature-for-feature equivalence with PhET.

Concept 1

Start with the objective

Name what the learner should predict, measure, explain, or design. A simulation is suitable only when its controls and feedback support that objective.

Concept 2

Inspect the model boundary

Look for assumptions, units, parameter ranges, and excluded effects. Two simulations of the same topic can be useful precisely because they make different modelling choices.

Concept 3

Design an evidence task

Pair open exploration with a short prediction, controlled comparison, recorded observation, and explanation. The worksheet should assess reasoning rather than button-following.

Guided investigation

Evaluate one SciFunLab simulation for a lesson

  1. 1Write one measurable learning objective and choose a SciFunLab simulation that appears to support it.
  2. 2List the relevant controls, output evidence, units, and stated model limitations.
  3. 3Run one baseline and two controlled comparisons as a learner would.
  4. 4Decide whether to use, adapt, or reject the simulation for that objective and justify the decision.

Evidence to record

Use a review table with objective, required variable, available control, observable evidence, accessibility check, model limitation, and decision. Link the exact canonical simulation URL.

Equations and variables

evidence task = prediction + controlled change + observation + explanation

A practical instructional design pattern rather than a physical law.

  • • prediction: expected result with reasoning
  • • controlled change: one purposeful variable change
  • • observation: recorded simulation evidence
  • • explanation: concept-based interpretation

Worked example

Apply the model

A teacher wants students to explain how launch angle affects ideal projectile range. What minimum simulation features and task evidence are needed?

  1. Step 1: Require controls for angle with fixed speed, gravity, equal heights, and drag off, plus displayed or measurable range.
  2. Step 2: Ask for a prediction, at least five angle trials, a controlled table, and an explanation of complementary angles and assumptions.

Answer: The SciFunLab projectile lab is suitable if those controls and measurements are accessible to the class. The teacher should test keyboard, device, reading-level, and curriculum fit before assigning it.

Misconceptions to test

Common claim

“An alternative must copy every feature of the original service.”

Correction: An alternative can be useful for a particular learning objective, topic, access need, or teaching approach without being a complete replacement.

Common claim

“Putting students in front of any interactive simulation guarantees learning.”

Correction: Learning depends on the task, prior knowledge, facilitation, feedback, reflection, and how well the model fits the intended concept.

Teacher-ready worksheet

Simulation selection review sheet

  1. 1.Write one measurable learning objective.
  2. 2.List the required controls and observable evidence.
  3. 3.Test keyboard, mobile, labels, units, and model-limit information.
  4. 4.Run a baseline and two controlled comparisons.
  5. 5.Choose use, adapt, or reject and justify the decision without brand claims.

Print or save this page as PDF to use the investigation and worksheet offline.

Knowledge check

Check your understanding

Check objectives, assumptions, evidence, verification, and responsible model use.

Take the simulation-evidence knowledge check →

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