Virtual laboratories in biology, biotechnology and chemistry education: a literature review

Laboratory classes are essential in Biology, Biotechnology and Chemistry, as they help learners acquire skills and understand physical phenomena in depth. To run hands-on laboratories one needs space, equipment and staff, so virtual laboratories can help reduce the total cost and still complement physical presence. This paper reviews virtual laboratories applications in a variety of educational settings, in Biology, Biotechnology and Chemistry. The results demonstrate that virtual laboratories are used in K-12 schools, undergraduate and postgraduate courses, with overall positive effects on students' cognitive load, skills development and motivation. The reviewed works overwhelmingly indicate that virtual laboratories should not substitute physical ones and their advantages are better realized when combined with traditional hands-on sessions.

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