Virtual laboratories in science education: Unveiling trajectories, themes, and emerging paradigms (2013-2023)

Ying ZHANG, Yuqin YANG, Yongkang CHU, Daner SUN, Jiazhen XU, Yuhui ZHENG

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlespeer-review

Abstract

Virtual laboratories are transformative tools in science education, yet comprehensive reviews of their prospects are limited. This study addresses this gap through a bibliometric analysis of 218 articles published between 2013 and 2023. Key findings included: (1) research has evolved from initial exploration to rapid expansion; (2) virtual labs have demonstrated adaptability across various scientific disciplines, including chemistry, physics, biology, engineering, and medicine; (3) five research trajectories focus on virtual labs, science education, and computer-based learning; and (4) eight research topics, such as comparisons with physical labs and student performance, have gained prominence. These findings had implications for educational practices, research methodologies, and policy considerations. For educational practices, virtual laboratories offer benefits by removing the need for physical resources, providing flexible delivery, enabling safe exploration, fostering engagement through hands-on experimentation, and enhancing understanding with immersive experiences. For research, virtual labs improve learning and analytical skills, generate detailed data on student behaviors and learning patterns, and lead to innovations in teaching methods and curriculum design. For policymakers, strategic planning is needed to create supportive policies for the effective adoption of virtual labs, including teacher training, infrastructure development, and curriculum integration, making science education more accessible and equitable for all students. Copyright © 2024 JBSE.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)990-1009
JournalJournal of Baltic Science Education
Volume23
Issue number5
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Oct 2024

Citation

Zhang, Y., Yang, Y., Chu, Y., Sun, D., Xu, J., & Zheng, Y. (2024). Virtual laboratories in science education: Unveiling trajectories, themes, and emerging paradigms (2013-2023). Journal of Baltic Science Education, 23(5), 990-1009. http://dx.doi.org/10.33225/jbse/24.23.990

Keywords

  • Bibliometrics analysis
  • Research trends
  • Science education
  • Virtual laboratory

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