Virtual+Labs

=**Virtual Labs for Science Classes on the Internet:**=


 * Glencoe/ McGraw-Hill Virtual labs** example lab []


 * The above link is an example of a virtual lab. Glencoe tries to make it a little difficult to find the labs if you do not purchase the textbook series. However, a quick Google search of the topic you are studying accompanied by the phrase "Glencoe virtual lab" will usually find an activity.

These virtual labs provide students the ability to perform laboratory experiments that could not be performed in the classroom. The experiments require that students perform the experiment virtually, collect data, and analyze the data to formulate conclusions.

Gizmos are virtual labs that are created to supplement the curriculum. Student can manipulate data and perform laboratory investigations.
 * Gizmos virtual labs** [|http://www.explorelearning.com]

The Jason Project is a product of National Geographic. The curriculum is for 6th-8th grades students. The motto of the project is “education through exploration.” The motto emphasizes the goal of the curriculum which is inquiry based lessons that focus on real-world application of concepts. The lessons focus around Earth related topics.
 * The Jason Project** [|www.jason.org]

=**Replacement Ideas**:= These virtual labs can be used to extend and enrich student learning by providing lab materials that might not be available in the classroom. Many of the virtual labs also allow students to collect data in setting that reach beyond the classroom. For example, one of the Glencoe Virtual labs allows student to collect data using a research vessel in the middle of the ocean. Gizmos offer similar experiences for students.

=**Research:**=

Virtual laboratory investigations provide students with the ability to conduct experimentation that might not be available in the classroom setting for a variety of reasons, including cost and resource availability. In a study by conducted by Tilman Wolf, it was found that students gain approximately the same amount of understanding of the content from laboratory investigations as they do from lecture. Thus laboratory investigations coupled with classroom discussion led to the most comprehensive learning environment for students. The article also discusses the cost saving that can occur when students participate in virtual labs creating another positive advantage for the use of virtual labs in the classroom.

Wolf, T. (2010). Assessing Student Learning In a Virtual Laboratory Environment. , 53(2), 216-222.Retrieved from: http://ieeexplore.ieee.org.ezp.waldenulibrary.org/stamp/stamp.jsp?tp=&arnumber=5152943