A Kinesthetic Pedagogical Approach to Teaching Fleming’s Left-Hand Rule Using the FLHR Tri-Vector Guide in The Malaysian Matriculation Physics Curriculum

Fleming’s Left-Hand Rule (FLHR) is a key concept in understanding the motor effect and magnetic force in the study of electromagnetism. Despite its importance in the Malaysian Matriculation Physics curriculum, many students struggle to visualize and apply the rule correctly due to its abstract and three-dimensional nature. This study introduces the FLHR Tri-Vector Guide, a symbolic and kinesthetic learning tool designed to simplify and concretize the understanding of vector directions in FLHR—force, magnetic field and current. Developed using a design-based research methodology, the guide mimics a 90-degree slingshot structure to represent the spatial relationship between the vectors. The model was validated by matriculation physics lecturers and tested with students through a pre-test, post-test I, and post-test II. Findings indicate a significant improvement in student comprehension and engagement, with learners reporting that the guide was intuitive and helpful in mastering this complex concept. Descriptive analysis of repeated measurements at three time points was conducted to determine the mean scores, standard deviations, minimum and maximum scores. The FLHR Tri-Vector Guide thus presents a promising pedagogical aid that aligns with 21st-century teaching practices and supports more effective physics instruction in Malaysian classrooms.