The inquiry based approach to laboratory investigations can often to be arduous when students have no clue what they should expect. When using simple simulation, students can learn by correlating correct behaviors with positive outcomes. Pre-inquiry based investigations give students the ability to familiarize themselves with physical phenomenon so they know what to expect when they are successful. Simulations are an ideal environment for students to examine one variable at time and interpret role that each variable contribute to a system. New authoring tools like Macromedia Flash are enabling teachers and students to create simulations quicker than ever before.