Assessing the Impact of Virtualizing Physical Labs

Abstract: Virtual laboratories are the new online educational trend for communicating to students practical skills of science. In this paper we report on a comparison of techniques for familiarizing distance learning students with a 3D virtual biology laboratory, in order to prepare them for their microscopy experiment in their physical wet lab. Initial training for these students was provided at a distance, via Skype. Their progress was assessed through Pre and Post-tests and compared to those of students who opted to only prepare for their wet lab using the conventional face-to-face educational method, which was provided for all students. Our results provide preliminary answers to questions such as whether the incorporation of a virtual lab in the educational process will improve the quality of distance learning education and whether a virtual lab can be a valuable educational supplement to students enrolled in laboratory courses on Biology.