2.2 Visualisation and exploring concepts with virtual labs
Watch
Watch the video above, where Leonard Nungu will tell you more about the core benefits of virtual labs for understanding and visualising STEAM concepts.
Read
Open the following links to find more details on how the virtual labs support visualization and exploration of concepts in STEAM subjects.
Using Virtual Reality in the Classroom: Reflections of STEM Teachers on the Use of Teaching and Learning Tools
https://doi.org/10.21891/jeseh.711779
Review of virtual labs as the emerging technologies for teaching STEM subjects
https://doi.org/10.21125/inted.2017.1422
Engaging Students in STEM Education through a Virtual Learning Lab
https://doi.org/10.18260/1-2--17854
Virtual Learning Simulations in High School: Effects on Cognitive and Non-cognitive Outcomes and Implications on the Development of STEM Academic and Career Choice
https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2017.00805
Review
Review the articles below applying virtual labs in biology and mathematics. If you primarily teach in another discipline, consider how the same principles might apply in your own field.
Virtual laboratory for enhancing students’ understanding on abstract biology concepts and laboratory skills: a systematic review
https://doi.org/10.1088/1742-6596/1521/4/042025
Assessing students’ learning of abstract mathematical concepts in a blended learning environment enhanced with a web-based virtual laboratory
https://doi.org/10.20368/1971-8829/1135520
Explore · optional
Visit one (or more) of the following repositories. Select any resource or lesson plan based on the current topic you are teaching and explore whether you think it can help your students comprehend STEAM concepts easily.
LabXchange
https://www.labxchange.org
Go-Lab Project
https://www.golabz.eu
Desmos
https://www.desmos.com
Respond
Based on your explorations above, think about your own subject area and then go to Forum 2.2, where you'll be asked: What is one key concept in your own teaching that you think could be explained better through a virtual lab or simulation? Be sure to explain the challenges your students face in learning the concept and how they might be overcome.
Then read through some of the posts by others and respond to at least one.