Hands-on and online: scientific explorations through distance learning

Laboratory experiments are often considered the defining characteristic of science courses. Such activities provide students with real-world contexts for applying scientific concepts, while also allowing them to develop scientific ways of thinking and promoting an interest in science. In recent year...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Open learning 2011-06, Vol.26 (2), p.135-146
Main Authors: Mawn, Mary V., Carrico, Pauline, Charuk, Ken, Stote, Kim S., Lawrence, Betty
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
College Science
Distance Education
Distance learning
Educational Technology
Electronic Learning
Experiments
Hands on Science
Laboratories
Laboratory Experiments
New York
Online Courses
Online instruction
online learning
Science
Science education
Science Instruction
Science Laboratories
Scientific Concepts
scientific experiments
scientific inquiry
Surveys
Teaching Methods
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Summary:Laboratory experiments are often considered the defining characteristic of science courses. Such activities provide students with real-world contexts for applying scientific concepts, while also allowing them to develop scientific ways of thinking and promoting an interest in science. In recent years, an increasing number of campuses have moved their instruction to the online learning environment. Consequently, in the sciences there is a growing need to develop best practices related to the integration of laboratory-based activities with online science coursework. This research study explored how online students engaged in scientific processes as they conducted relevant and real-world experiments from their own locations. An analysis of three online science courses revealed that laboratory experiments can be performed successfully by distance learning students.
ISSN:0268-0513
1469-9958
DOI:10.1080/02680513.2011.567464