The physics of Gravitram: “Leisure or outdoor learning?”
Nadi Suprapto*, Husni Mubarok

Department of Physics, Universitas Negeri Surabaya
*nadisuprapto[at]unesa.ac.id

Abstract

Through a research project of exploring physics concept in Techno Park, this study was manifested. It explored the existence of the application of the physics concept as part of exhibitions in museums, technopark, and science centers. The author specified the discussion into “Gravitram”. It is a complex system in which an electric motor lifts metal balls up to the top of the gravitram system, so each ball experience the law of conservation of energy. Rationally, the author adopted the qualitative paradigm in the research methodology. Documentation study through photo-elicitation and video analysis; and content analysis of electronic resources were used in the data collection. For a clear explanation, the findings and discussion are started from the history of the gravitram system, gravitram in the world, and the physics analysis of the system itself. The discussion is also exploring further the role of this system as a part of physics leisure, outdoor learning, or both of them.

Keywords: physics; gravitram; outdoor learning

Topic: Physics Education