Fast, Flexible and Value for money? Trialing a “Virtual Lab” Exercise in a Food Safety Microbiology Course
Abstract: A web-based virtual laboratory exercise in microbial contamination was designed for use with a cohort of third-year university food science students. They were presented with a case, and then walked through a number of diagnostic steps in order to identify the contaminant. At each step, the students were asked to select one out of a possible four tests. All tests had an associated cost. Feedback was given on selection and once the right test was selected, students were shown the results and could progress. At the end of the exercise, students had determined a number of characteristics of the contaminant. They were then required to identify the organism using a variety of sources and present a report. A student survey showed they enjoyed the exercise and felt it fulfilled the aims and objectives of the lesson. There was a positive response to its flexible nature and the inclusion of test costs. The exercise was less expensive than a traditional laboratory one, and was developed with a generic template which could be used for future lessons.