How virtual labs work
Virtual labs are a flexible way for teachers to introduce students to a variety of topics and concepts. While they can—and often do—replace a traditional lab, virtual labs can also be used to enhance instruction.
- As pre-lab exercises. Before undertaking an experiment, students can learn about the equipment, processes, and safety measures through a virtual lab—cutting down on physical lab time and potential damage or injury.
- As visual aids. Virtual labs can help students understand complex concepts and “picture” things like atoms, DNA strands, and electrical currents.
- To refresh knowledge or reinforce concepts. Virtual labs can help students reflect on and remember previous material and pave the way for new learning. Taking students through a virtual lab can show teachers what students have retained and if they are ready to continue exploring a topic.
- To check knowledge. Performance in a virtual lab experiment can show teachers if students really understand a topic.
- To prepare students for online assessments and further online learning. Digital literacy is becoming more and more important as more state assessments move online and online education becomes more and more commonplace.
- As a replacement for traditional lab work. Whether it is a lack of space, equipment, or time, virtual labs can indeed take the place of traditional labs entirely. They can also give students experience exploring topics that are impossible to recreate in physical labs—nuclear reactions or evolution, for example.
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