MAKING WAVE CONCEPT TANGIBLE

Mustafa Şahin BÜLBÜL ¹

This study includes efficiency of some designed materials and activities for the students with special needs (blind students) about wave concept. In 9th grade Turkish High School Physics Curriculum, all the students have to learn wave concept because physics course is compulsory and wave concept was prepared as a unit. Generally, blind students only memorize some definitions about period, frequency and amplitude in that unit. This seems the easiest way for both teacher and students. Observing a wave may be impossible for a blind student, however an appropriate activity with tangible materials like pliable wire and beads on a rope should be adapted to the curriculum. This study fills this gap (needs of special students) in physics education about wave. It was tested with a totally blind student and her three other visual impaired friends and noticed the interview about suggested materials’ usability and instructional dimensions.

Keywords
Physics Education, Special Education, Blind Students, Wave Concept, Turkey,