Bringing Inquiry into an Online Laboratory Environment

 

Tested Studies in Laboratory Teaching, 2016, Volume 37

Kristen Miller & Courtney Holt

Abstract

As online learning in lecture courses surges forward, online learning in laboratory environments drags behind. This mini-workshop will describe the creation and implementation of an online biology laboratory module on the topic of antibiotic resistance. This module was created to "mimic," as closely as possible, the face-to-face (F2F) version of the topic taught in introductory biology laboratory sections for non-science majors. Presenters will discuss challenges and successes of this effort, including perspectives from students, instructors who implemented the labs with their students, and designers of the module. Specific points of discussion will be raised regarding how to offer inquiry teaching and learning in an online laboratory environment. Data of a research study that compared the experiences of students, including summative assignments, in the online versus F2F modules will be shared. Participants will be able to view portions of the online lab during the presentation and will be asked to share experiences and challenges of online learning happening at their home institutions.

Keywords:  online, online learning

Boston University (2015)