DOI
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compedu.2019.05.006

Summary
The analysis on the contribution of Single User Participatory Simulation (SUPS) to learning gains is provided in this article. The authors present the particle model used in the research and describe its functionalities in participatory and non-participatory modes which differ in the level of control. They also describe the research methodology, that is the composition of students’ groups and the design of the questionnaire. The understanding of conceptual connections, misconception of the ideas related to the particle model, engagement in the study process, and perceptions about learning activities and approaches were evaluated for two distinct groups with different participatory and non-participatory learning approaches. In conclusion, the research showed that SUPS contribute to achieving larger learning gains without causing additional misconceptions compared to the conventional non-participatory simulations. Moreover, the interactive learning process is reported to create more enjoyment and interest.

Relevance for Complex Systems Knowledge
The authors present a tool for simulating processes of complex particle system. The proposed particle simulation tool is dedicated to facilitate learning about phases of the matter and the phenomenon of vaporization is analyzed as an examples. Such tool helps students to identify nonlinear, emergent patters, to establish mechanistic causal relationships between the constituents (temperature and movement), to relate the insights about the conceptual model and mechanism in complex systems.
The idea is to assess students’ engagement and knowledge gain if student can experiment in the learning environment by governing various parameters and impacting constituents of the modelled complex system, such as dynamically pushing some particles. The authors state, that this learning approach enabled students to develop more conceptual particle-model connections and was more engaging compared to those students who just observed the simulation. Thus, the authors state the importance of students’ engagement and opportunity to experiment in the active learning environment.

Point of Strength
The article presents how simulation of complex particle systems and visualizing interactions between the constituents of this system can help students to engage in the study field and develop conceptual understanding of complex phenomena.