Physical Analysis of a Fishing Rod and Development of an Elasticity E-Module as a Supplement for Mechanics Learning

Abstract

Mechanics instruction at the university level, particularly for students in the Physics and Physics Education 
study programs, is often hindered by the abstract nature of the content, complex formulas, and unengaging modes of 
delivery. A preliminary study showed that 83.3% of students found mechanics difficult to understand, partly because of 
the limited variety of learning media. One interesting topic in mechanics is the dynamics of elastic bodies, including 
fishing rods. These dynamics involve numerous physical concepts and complex mathematical equations, so an 
enrichment module is needed to facilitate students’ understanding. This study aimed to develop an elasticity e-module 
as a supplement for mechanics learning, focusing on the analysis of the curvature of a fishing rod (an elastic rod) and a 
comparison of the acceleration multiplication factor between elastic and non-elastic rods subjected to a force impulse. 
This study used a Research and Development (R&D) approach with the 4D development model (Define, Design, Develop, 
Disseminate). The physical analysis was conducted theoretically and experimentally on tapered elastic rods. In the 
curvature experiment, the load was varied, whereas in the acceleration experiment, the acceleration response was 
observed using the accelerometer sensor of a smartphone. The developed e-module was validated by subject-matter 
and media experts and tested with students as users. The validation results showed that the e-module was categorized 
as “very feasible” in both content and media aspects. Meanwhile, students’ responses fell into the “very good” category 
for material presentation (90.53%), language (91.58%), visual display (88.84%), usefulness (91.89%), technical aspects 
(91.75%), and evaluation (90.53%). Therefore, the elasticity e-module is feasible for use as a supplement in Mechanics 
courses.