Share Paper: Is There a Virtual Edge? An Investigation of the Use of Virtual Labs to Supplement Traditional Microbiology Labs

1. Rachel Watson, University of Wyoming, United States
2. Christine Boggs, University of Wyoming, United States
3. Ashley Driscoll, University of Wyoming, United States

Abstract: Accumulating research indicates that computer simulation, in the form of virtual labs, can provide many benefits to traditional hands-on labs. Beginning in the fall of 2005 online labs, called the Virtual Edge, were developed and used as supplemental material for the General and Medical Microbiology lab classes at the University of Wyoming. The primary purpose of this study was to compare the acquisition of practical laboratory knowledge and skills between students using the online labs and those assessed by a traditional paper-based quiz. Twenty-six labs were designed and developed consisting of text, video, audio and interactive web content mirroring the ...