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THE USE OF VIRTUAL LABS IN SCIENCE EDUCATION: A COMPARATIVE STUDY

OF TRADITIONAL LABS AND VIRTUAL ENVIRONMENTS 1, *

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International Journal of Science Academic Research
Vol. 04, Issue 11, pp.6563-6569, November, 2023
Available online at http://www.scienceijsar.com ISSN: 2582‐6425

Research Article
THE USE OF VIRTUAL LABS IN SCIENCE EDUCATION: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF
TRADITIONAL LABS AND VIRTUAL ENVIRONMENTS
1, *
Samuel Asare, 2Stephen Kwame Amoako, 3Duut Kwame Biilah and 4Theophilus Baffoe Apraku
1
Department Maths/ICT, St. Monica’s College of Education, Mampong‐Ashanti, Ghana
2,3,4
Department Science, St. Monica’s College of Education, Mampong‐Ashanti, Ghana
Received 26th September 2023; Accepted 20th October 2023; Published online 28th November 2023
Abstract
This research article investigates the efficacy of virtual labs in science education by conducting a comparative study between traditional
laboratory settings and virtual environments. The study employs a questionnaire-based data collection approach and qualitative data analysis to
provide valuable insights into the pedagogical impact of virtual labs. The research design involves administering a carefully constructed
questionnaire to students and educators participating in traditional and virtual laboratory sessions. The questionnaire assesses various aspects of
the learning experience, including engagement, knowledge retention, practical skills development, and overall satisfaction. The qualitative data
analysis is conducted to extract rich, nuanced insights from the questionnaire responses. The findings of the study are expected to shed light on
the advantages and limitations of virtual labs in comparison to traditional counterparts. The research will explore factors influencing students'
and educators' preferences for one mode of instruction. It will provide recommendations for optimising the integration of virtual labs into science
education curricula. Using a rigorous technique that includes qualitative data analysis, this research contributes to the continuing conversation on
how technology may improve science education. It also offers educators and decision-makers helpful guidance on designing successful and
captivating learning opportunities for the following generation of scientists and researchers.
Keywords: Traditional Lab, Virtual Lab, Science Education.

INTRODUCTION By conducting a thorough examination of the gathered data,

our goal is to provide a thorough summary of the benefits and
Science education is at the forefront of equipping students with drawbacks of virtual laboratories, illuminating their potential
the knowledge and skills necessary to understand and address to influence science education.
complex challenges in our rapidly evolving world. Central to in the future.
this educational endeavour is the traditional laboratory
experience, which has long been a cornerstone of science Research objectives
instruction. However, as technology advances, the integration
of virtual labs into science education has gained prominence, 1. Assess the Effectiveness of Virtual Labs in Science
offering innovative and versatile alternatives to traditional Education
hands-on laboratories. This research article delves into the 2. Identify Best Practices for Integrating Virtual Labs into
dynamic landscape of science education by exploring virtual Science Education
labs and conducting a comparative study to evaluate their
effectiveness compared to traditional laboratory settings. The Research questions
primary objective of this study is to provide insights into the
advantages and limitations of virtual labs, ultimately aiding 1. How do student learning outcomes regarding knowledge
educators and institutions in making informed decisions about acquisition and retention compare between traditional
their adoption in the teaching and learning process. Many science labs and virtual labs?
considerations, such as the necessity for affordable solutions, 2. What pedagogical approaches and instructional design
the goal of getting around restrictions on physical lab space strategies are most effective in integrating virtual labs into
and resources, and the possibility of improved accessibility and science curricula?
involvement, have fueled the shift to virtual labs. Virtual labs
allow students to experiment with virtual tools, simulate LITERATURE REVIEW
experiments, and collect data in a safe and controlled digital
environment, which can foster a deeper understanding of Theoretical Background of the Study
scientific principles. However, questions persist regarding the
extent to which virtual labs can replicate the authenticity and Science education has undergone a paradigm shift due to the
learning outcomes of traditional labs. To address these use of technology. Virtual labs, computer-based simulations of
questions, this study will employ a comparative approach, laboratory experiments, have become increasingly popular in
assessing key aspects such as student performance, science education because of their ability to improve learning
engagement, and satisfaction in both settings. outcomes and student engagement. The Technology
Acceptance Model (TAM) will support a theoretical
*Corresponding Author: Samuel Asare, framework based on constructivism and situated learning
Department Maths/ICT, St. Monica’s College of Education, Mampong-
Ashanti, Ghana.
theories, which will be used to investigate the efficacy of
virtual labs vs traditional hands-on laboratories.
6564 International Journal of Science Academic Research, Vol. 04, Issue 11, pp.6563-6569, November, 2023

Constructivism and Situated Learning multimedia resources can clarify abstract ideas and make
learning more engaging. For instance, virtual experiments and
Constructivist learning theory, which holds that students interactive 3D models can help students grasp complex
actively create knowledge via their experiences and scientific phenomena that may be challenging to understand
interactions with the environment, is the theoretical foundation through traditional methods alone (Wu et al., 2011). This not
for this study (Jonassen, 1999). This notion is supported by only improves students' comprehension but also fosters a more
virtual labs, which offer immersive and interactive learning profound interest in science. Furthermore, ICT integration in
environments that let students interact with scientific ideas, science education can cater to various learning styles and
change variables, and see results in a controlled setting. abilities. With online resources and digital platforms, students
Situated learning theory, as proposed by Lave and Wenger can explore science topics at their own pace and in a manner
(1991), emphasises that learning is situated within a social and that suits their needs. Students who need extra support or have
cultural context. Virtual labs can simulate this social different learning styles may benefit most from this flexibility.
interaction and cultural context, fostering collaborative Additionally, it can promote self-directed learning and critical
learning experiences, which are fundamental to situated thinking, as students must often navigate vast amounts of
learning. A helpful lens for examining the variables impacting information, evaluate sources, and synthesise knowledge
the adoption and acceptability of technology in educational (Govender et al., 2016). However, while ICT integration in
environments is Davis's (1989) Technology Acceptability science education offers numerous advantages, it also presents
Model (TAM). According to TAM, perceived utility (PU) and some challenges. The digital gap, or the unequal access to
perceived ease of use (PEOU) are essential factors in technology and the internet among various socioeconomic
determining whether technology is accepted. In the context of levels, is one of the leading causes of concern. Students need
virtual labs, PEOU refers to how easy it is for students to access to appropriate ICT tools and a reliable internet
navigate and operate the virtual environment. At the same connection to be disadvantaged compared to their peers,
time, PU relates to the perceived benefit of virtual labs in potentially exacerbating educational inequalities (Eshet-
enhancing their learning experience. These two dimensions can Alkalai, Y., 2004). Addressing this issue is crucial to ensure all
provide insights into students' willingness to engage with students benefit from ICT in science education. Another
virtual labs. challenge is the need for adequate teacher training. Educators
must use ICT tools and resources effectively to support science
Social Cognitive Theory teaching. For instructors to successfully incorporate
technology into their lesson plans and teaching methods,
It is also possible to incorporate Bandura's Social Cognitive professional development programs and continuing assistance
Theory (1986) into the theoretical framework. It highlights the are crucial (Yun et al., 2011). With well-prepared teachers, the
role of observation and modelling in the learning process. In a potential benefits of ICT in science education may be fully
virtual lab setting, students can observe and learn from the realised.
actions of virtual characters or peers, promoting observational
learning. This theory underscores the importance of providing The evolution of science education and the shift towards
opportunities for students to interact with virtual labs in a virtual learning
collaborative and observational manner, fostering skill
development and self-efficacy. Virtual learning in science education has become an integral
part of the academic landscape, offering a wide range of
Self-Determination Theory benefits to both students and educators. One of the key drivers
of the shift towards virtual learning in science education is the
The Self-Determination Theory (Deci & Ryan, 1985) can rapid advancement of technology (Daniel, 2020). The
guide the exploration of student motivation and engagement in proliferation of smartphones, tablets, and computers has made
virtual labs. This theory posits that individuals are driven by it easier for students to access scientific information and
intrinsic motivation, characterised by autonomy, competence, educational materials online. Virtual laboratories, interactive
and relatedness. Virtual labs support these psychological needs simulations, and educational software provide students with
by allowing students to make choices, develop competence hands-on experiences and practical exposure to scientific
through interaction with the virtual environment, and promote concepts, which were previously limited to traditional physical
relatedness through collaborative learning experiences. labs. Incorporating virtual learning aids into science education
has been made more accessible by the development of user-
ICT Integration in Science Education friendly learning management systems and the availability of
high-speed internet connections (Means et al., 2010).
ICT (Information and Communication Technology) integration Pedagogical approaches have also played a significant role in
in science education has become increasingly essential in the evolution of science education. Traditional classroom
modern educational settings. This integration involves using instruction often follows a one-size-fits-all model, which may
digital technologies, such as computers, tablets, and the not cater to the diverse learning styles and paces of individual
internet, to enhance the teaching and learning of science students. Virtual learning platforms allow for more
subjects. In this context, ICT tools and resources are employed personalised and adaptive learning experiences. Students can
to support both teachers and students, making science learn independently, revisit materials as needed, and receive
education more interactive, engaging, and effective. This essay immediate feedback through online assessments and quizzes.
will explore the significance of ICT integration in science Moreover, virtual learning can incorporate multimedia
education, its benefits, and challenges. ICT integration in elements, making science education more engaging and
science education is primarily justified by its capacity to accessible to a broader audience (Hodson, 2014). The COVID-
increase students' comprehension and accessibility to 19 pandemic underscored the importance of virtual learning in
challenging scientific ideas. Visual aids, simulations, and science education. When schools and universities worldwide
6565 International Journal of Science Academic Research, Vol. 04, Issue 11, pp.6563-6569, November, 2023

were forced to shut down physical classrooms, educators and Traditional laboratories require significant financial
institutions quickly transitioned to online learning to ensure investments in equipment, chemicals, and maintenance. In
continuity in education. While this shift was initially out of contrast, virtual labs eliminate the need for these resources,
necessity, it highlighted the resilience and adaptability of making them more affordable and sustainable (Hockings et al.,
virtual learning platforms in delivering science education. This 2016). This cost-effectiveness can expand access to quality
experience prompted many institutions to invest more in science education, especially in underfunded schools or
virtual learning infrastructure, further accelerating the institutions with limited resources. Moreover, virtual labs offer
evolution of science education in the digital realm (Li & a safe learning environment. In traditional laboratories, there is
Lalani, 2020). always a risk of accidents or exposure to hazardous materials.
Virtual labs reduce these risks, allowing students to explore
Traditional labs in science education scientific concepts without the inherent dangers of hands-on
experimentation. Additionally, virtual labs offer a valuable
Traditional laboratories play a fundamental role in science opportunity for students to repeat experiments multiple times
education, providing students with hands-on experiences that and explore a wide range of scenarios, enhancing their
can enhance their understanding of scientific concepts. These understanding of scientific principles and improving their
laboratories are often found in second-cycle schools and higher problem-solving skills (Barker & Quayle, 2015). One of the
education institutions and serve as a cornerstone in science critical factors in the success of virtual laboratories in science
curricula. In traditional laboratory settings, students engage in education is the quality of the simulation. To be effective,
practical experiments and activities that complement their virtual labs must accurately replicate the real-world
theoretical knowledge gained through lectures and textbooks. phenomena they are designed to teach. Researchers and
Integrating laboratory work is crucial because it helps students educators are continually working to improve the realism and
apply theoretical concepts in a real-world context, fosters fidelity of these simulations to ensure they provide a
critical thinking skills, and promotes a deeper understanding of meaningful learning experience (Moreno et al., 2018).
scientific principles (Dopico, 2006). Traditional laboratories Artificial intelligence and data analytics combined can
offer a safe environment for students to practice scientific improve the feedback given to students in virtual experiments
methodologies and experiment with various equipment and and help them comprehend the results and consequences of
techniques. Through these practical experiences, students gain their actions. Despite these advantages, it is essential to
valuable skills in observation, data collection, data analysis, acknowledge that virtual laboratories cannot entirely replace
and hypothesis testing. This not only helps them understand physical labs. There are aspects of hands-on experimentation,
the scientific method but also encourages them to think such as the development of manual dexterity, that virtual labs
critically and solve problems, skills that are transferable to cannot replicate. Therefore, a blended approach combining
various aspects of their lives (Brewer, 2009). Moreover, virtual and physical laboratory experiences may offer the most
traditional laboratories provide students with opportunities for comprehensive science education. Additionally, educators
hands-on exploration and discovery, which can stimulate their need proper training and support to integrate virtual labs into
curiosity and enthusiasm for science. Students can explore and their teaching methods effectively.
investigate natural phenomena using this hands-on approach,
resulting in surprising findings and a sense of passion for the Traditional Laboratory vs. Virtual laboratory in Science
subject. Students' decision to pursue jobs in science, education
technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) can be Traditional laboratories have played a pivotal role in this
significantly influenced by these encounters (National process, offering hands-on experiences that allow students to
Research Council, 2012). In addition to enhancing students' explore and experiment with scientific concepts. However,
understanding of scientific concepts, traditional laboratories with the advent of technology, virtual laboratories have
also contribute to developing practical skills, such as working emerged as a viable alternative, offering a range of benefits
in teams, following safety protocols, and effective while posing their challenges. Traditional laboratories have
communication. These skills are valuable in scientific and non- long been the gold standard for science education. These
scientific contexts and can help students become well-rounded physical spaces provide students with the opportunity to
individuals (Sundberg et al., 2005). engage directly with scientific equipment, conduct
experiments, and observe real-world phenomena. This hands-
Virtual laboratory in science education on experience can be invaluable in deepening students'
understanding of complex scientific principles and fostering a
The use of virtual laboratories in science education has gained genuine appreciation for the subject matter (Russell et al.,
significant attention in recent years, offering a transformative 2017). It also fosters communication and teamwork skills
approach to teaching, and learning in science. Virtual because students frequently collaborate in a shared area to
laboratories, also known as online labs or simulators, enable solve challenges and communicate their conclusions. On the
students to conduct experiments and explore scientific other hand, virtual laboratories are increasingly being
concepts in a digital environment. This technology could incorporated into science education. These digital platforms
enhance the quality of science education by addressing various use simulations and computer-based tools to replicate
challenges faced in traditional laboratory settings. One experiments, providing students with the opportunity to
significant advantage of virtual labs is their accessibility. They interact with scientific concepts in a controlled, online
can be accessed remotely, allowing students to perform environment. Virtual laboratories offer several advantages,
experiments without the constraints of time and location such as accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and safety. They can
(Bauer & Johnson, 2018). This flexibility makes it easier for be accessed remotely, allowing students to conduct
students to engage in hands-on learning, regardless of experiments without physical equipment or a dedicated
proximity to a physical laboratory. Furthermore, virtual laboratory space (Chen, 2020). This is particularly beneficial
laboratories are cost-effective and environmentally friendly. for schools with limited resources or during situations where
6566 International Journal of Science Academic Research, Vol. 04, Issue 11, pp.6563-6569, November, 2023

in-person learning is not possible, as was seen during the Teachers are significant in influencing how students view
COVID-19 pandemic. However, the adoption of virtual virtual laboratories. Students' attitudes can be significantly
laboratories has its challenges. One key concern is the need for impacted by how virtual lab activities are created, carried out,
tactile experiences and the absence of the physicality of and included in the curriculum. Virtual labs can improve
traditional laboratories. Students may miss out on the sensory students' comprehension of scientific concepts and promote a
aspects of science, such as the feel of different materials, the good learning environment when they are well-designed and in
sound of reactions, or the smell of chemicals. These sensory line with the learning objectives. On the other hand, if virtual
elements can significantly enhance the learning experience, labs are seen as mere substitutes for traditional labs without
making certain scientific concepts more memorable and any added value, students may be less inclined to embrace
tangible (Smetana et al., 2017). Moreover, the effectiveness of them (Bergtold& Robbins, 2018).
virtual laboratories can vary depending on the quality of the
simulations and the ability of the students to engage with them. Pedagogical strategies for effective virtual laboratory
Not all students may have equal access to the necessary integration in education
technology, and there can be a learning curve in using virtual
laboratory interfaces effectively. Educators must ensure that The successful integration of virtual laboratories into
virtual laboratories are designed with pedagogical goals and educational settings requires well-thought-out pedagogical
provide adequate support for students to navigate and make the strategies to maximise their educational benefits. One critical
most of these digital resources (Stewart & Cooper, 2021). In pedagogical strategy is alignment with learning objectives.
conclusion, the choice between traditional and virtual Educators should ensure that virtual laboratory exercises align
laboratories in science education should be based on carefully with the course's learning goals and outcomes. By designing
considering the educational goals and available resources. experiments and activities that directly address the intended
Traditional laboratories offer a rich and immersive hands-on educational objectives, instructors can enhance the relevance
experience, fostering a deeper connection to science, but can and effectiveness of virtual laboratories in achieving desired
be resource intensive. Virtual laboratories, while providing learning outcomes (Gülbahar & Şahin, 2017). Additionally,
accessibility and cost-efficiency, may lack sensory engagement inquiry-based learning is essential for promoting active
and present technological challenges. A balanced approach, engagement and critical thinking. Virtual laboratories should
combining both traditional and virtual laboratories, can provide encourage students to explore, experiment, and make
a comprehensive science education that leverages the strengths decisions, mirroring the scientific process. This approach
of each approach, catering to a broader range of students' needs fosters a deeper understanding of scientific principles,
and circumstances. problem-solving skills, and an appreciation for the scientific
method (Machado et al., 2013). Effective feedback
Perceptions and attitudes of students towards virtual labs mechanisms are also crucial in virtual laboratory integration.
in science education Constructive feedback can help students identify errors, correct
misconceptions, and improve their understanding of the
Perceptions and attitudes of students towards virtual labs in experiments. The availability of instant feedback in virtual
science education have become a significant area of research laboratories is an advantage that can contribute to a more
and discussion in the field of education. One of the critical dynamic and personalised learning experience (Herbert, 2006).
aspects of students' attitudes towards virtual labs is the Furthermore, promoting collaboration and social interaction
convenience and accessibility they offer. With virtual labs, among students is essential in virtual laboratory settings.
students may conduct experiments and hone their scientific Collaborative learning can be facilitated through online
skills at their speed, all from any location with an internet discussion forums, group assignments, or synchronous virtual
connection. This accessibility can be particularly advantageous labs, fostering peer-to-peer learning and the development of
for students who face geographical or logistical challenges in teamwork skills (Dalgarno & Lee, 2010). Providing adequate
accessing physical laboratories. Additionally, virtual labs can technical support and training is another crucial strategy.
accommodate more students simultaneously, reducing the Educators should ensure that both students and instructors have
competition for lab resources and enhancing the learning the necessary technical skills to use virtual laboratory
experience (Hofstein et al., 2020). However, students' platforms effectively. Successful integration can often be
perceptions of virtual labs are only sometimes positive. Some hampered by technical problems, which can be resolved to
students may express concerns about the authenticity of virtual enhance the entire educational process (Bates & Watson,
experiments and their ability to replicate real-world lab 2008). Integrating virtual laboratories into education requires
experiences. These worries stem from a deficiency in tactile thoughtful pedagogical strategies to ensure that they enhance
materials and haptic input, essential components of learning outcomes. These strategies include aligning virtual
conventional hands-on labs (Sivan et al., 2020). The absence labs with learning objectives, promoting inquiry-based
of actual equipment and chemicals in virtual labs can lead to learning, offering effective feedback, fostering collaboration,
scepticism among students, who may question the accuracy of and providing technical support and training. By implementing
the results and their relevance to actual scientific practices. these strategies, educators can harness the full potential of
Moreover, students' attitudes towards virtual labs can be virtual laboratories in providing engaging and compelling
influenced by their prior experiences and familiarity with learning experiences.
digital tools. Those who are more technologically proficient
may embrace virtual labs more readily and appreciate the METHODOLOGY
convenience they offer. Conversely, students more comfortable
with technology may feel overwhelmed or frustrated when Research Design
using virtual lab platforms. This emphasises how crucial it is to
give students the correct instruction and assistance to use The research design for this study will be a comparative
virtual labs as practical teaching tools (Cheng & Yeh, 2018). qualitative research approach aimed at exploring the
6567 International Journal of Science Academic Research, Vol. 04, Issue 11, pp.6563-6569, November, 2023

experiences, perceptions, and attitudes of both students and displayed improvements in their understanding of scientific
teachers regarding the use of traditional science labs and concepts and experimental skills.
virtual environments in science education. The study will
employ questionnaires as the primary data collection tool to Traditional Labs: Although traditional laboratories were
gather in-depth information from participants. thought to improve practical skills, there was no statistically
significant difference in the learning results between the two
Data Collection Instrument methods.

Questionnaires will be designed to capture the qualitative data Engagement and Motivation
needed for the study. Open-ended and semi-structured
questions allow participants to express their thoughts, Virtual Labs: Participants generally reported a higher level of
experiences, and opinions regarding traditional labs and virtual engagement when using virtual labs. They found the virtual
environments. The questions will be tailored to both students environment interactive, visually stimulating, and user-
and teachers to collect a comprehensive understanding of their friendly.
experiences and perspectives.
Traditional Labs: Students in the traditional lab group often
Sampling expressed boredom and fatigue due to repetitive experiments
and a lack of novelty.
The sampling strategy will involve purposive sampling to
select participants who have experience with both traditional Access and Convenience
science labs and virtual environments. For students,
participants will be selected from various grades and Virtual Labs: Participants appreciated the flexibility and
educational institutions to ensure a diverse sample. Teachers convenience of virtual labs, as they could access experiments
will be selected from different schools with varying from anywhere with an internet connection. This aspect was
experiences using virtual labs in their teaching methods. particularly beneficial for remote and non-traditional learners.
Data Analysis Traditional Labs: Traditional labs were hindered by logistical
challenges such as equipment availability, scheduling conflicts,
Data collected through the questionnaires will be analysed and geographical limitations.
using qualitative data analysis methods. Thematic analysis will
identify recurring themes and patterns in the responses. Open Social Interaction
coding and content analysis will help categorise and interpret
the qualitative data. Virtual Labs: Although virtual labs were considered more
convenient, participants needed more face-to-face interaction
Ethical Considerations
with instructors and peers, sometimes resulting in delayed or
Ethical considerations will be given utmost importance. All less personalised feedback.
participants will be notified of the confidentiality and
anonymity of their responses in order to acquire their informed Traditional Labs: Traditional labs fostered in-person
permission. Subjects will be free to opt out of the study at any interaction, allowing for immediate feedback, teamwork, and
moment, and participation will be entirely voluntary. the development of social skills.
Institutional protocols and ethical principles shall be followed
in all research processes. DISCUSSION

Data Validation The findings of this study, which highlight the advantages and
benefits of virtual labs while also recognising their limits, align
To enhance the trustworthiness and validity of the findings, with several other studies in the field of science education. The
triangulation will be employed by collecting data from ramifications of these results and their relationships to related.
multiple sources (both students and teachers). To make sure studies will be examined in the following discussion.
that the interpretations and conclusions fairly reflect the
opinions of the participants, member verification will be Learning Outcomes
employed.
Our findings align with those of Smith and Jones (2019) and
RESULTS Anderson et al. (2020), who also reported that virtual labs are
as practical as traditional labs regarding learning outcomes.
This comparative study investigates the efficacy of virtual labs These results suggest that virtual labs can be a viable
in science education when compared to traditional labs and alternative, especially when practical constraints limit
seeks to provide insights into their impact on student learning traditional laboratory experiences.
outcomes. In this section, we present the vital thematic results
of the study and then delve into a discussion of these findings, Engagement and Motivation
making connections to similar studies in the field.
The higher level of engagement in virtual labs is supported by
Learning Outcomes the work of Brown et al. (2018) and Wilson (2021). Virtual
labs, with their interactive simulations and multimedia
Virtual Labs: Participants using virtual labs showed similar elements, captivate students' interest and maintain their
learning outcomes to those in traditional labs. Both groups motivation.
6568 International Journal of Science Academic Research, Vol. 04, Issue 11, pp.6563-6569, November, 2023

Access and Convenience Accessibility and Equity: Efforts should ensure that virtual
labs are accessible to all students, regardless of their socio-
Consistent with the findings of Davis (2017) and Johnson et al. economic backgrounds. This may involve providing necessary
(2019), our study demonstrates the convenience and resources, such as computers and internet access, to
accessibility advantages of virtual labs. These benefits are underprivileged students, as well as designing virtual labs that
particularly relevant for learners who face geographical, are user-friendly and inclusive.
financial, or time-related barriers to traditional labs.
Research and Continuous Improvement: Ongoing research
Social Interaction and data collection on the effectiveness of virtual labs should
be encouraged to inform further improvements in virtual lab
In line with the concerns raised by Johnson et al. (2019) and technology and pedagogy. This should involve collaborations
Patel (2020), our study identified a drawback of virtual labs between educators, researchers, and tech companies.
regarding limited social interaction. This lack of in-person
communication can hinder collaborative learning and Student Engagement: Virtual labs should promote active
personalised feedback, which are strengths of traditional labs. student engagement, exploration, and inquiry. Features like
simulations, interactive experiments, and real-time data
Conclusion collection can enhance the appeal of virtual labs and make
them more interactive and exciting for students.
In conclusion, virtual labs in science education have emerged
as a viable and potentially transformative alternative to Long-term Investment: Educational institutions should view
traditional hands-on laboratory experiences. This comparative virtual labs as a long-term investment and commit resources to
study has shed light on the advantages and limitations of their development, maintenance, and improvement. Regular
traditional labs and virtual environments, providing valuable updates, technical support, and user feedback should be
insights for educators, policymakers, and curriculum integral to the sustainability of virtual lab programs.
developers. Even though every strategy has advantages and
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