Laboratory Classes Research Articles

Advantages and disadvantages of laboratory lessons in mathematics teaching methodology under emergency remote teaching conditions

Certain features of the Ukrainian system for the methodological training of future mathematics teachers at a pedagogical university are described. The aim of this study is to identify the key advantages and disadvantages of conducting laboratory lessons in the methodological training of future mathematics teachers under emergency remote teaching conditions caused by unforeseen circumstances. The technologies developed by the authors of this article for conducting laboratory classes in the methodology of teaching mathematics in the conditions of emergency distance learning have been experimentally tested. A survey of the participants in such training was conducted. We found that conducting laboratory lessons for future mathematics teachers in a remote learning environment has not only disadvantages but also certain advantages. In particular, the advantages include: teachers more actively using access to new resources and applying new opportunities during specific classes; increased personal responsibility of students for focus and engagement in the class; an additional component of technology-techniques is added to the traditional teacher-student partnership. Based on the results of the study, we concluded that the possible need for emergency distance learning should encourage teachers to pursue professional development and to form skills for the operational and creative use of digital technologies in managing learning. In this article, we describe our own experience of conducting laboratory work in the methodology of teaching mathematics in the conditions of emergency distance learning. The forced conditions of emergency distance learning in the course on the methodology of teaching mathematics allowed us to significantly expand and diversify the usual tools for forming the methodological competencies of future mathematics teachers. Our experience may be useful to interested parties to better prepare for possible future needs in implementing emergency distance learning under unforeseen circumstances (quarantines, natural disasters, etc.).

Класифициране на трудностите при обучение на студенти по учебната дисциплина „Програмиране на Java“

Students experience multiple difficulties in learning the Java programming language. This report attempts to classify these difficulties based on the author's experience from the laboratory classes in the Java Programming course with the Computer Science and Software Engineering majors. The classification will help to suggest workable methods and means to overcome or at least minimize these difficulties. Observations show that the main difficulties are related to the transition from the already studied language (C++ or C#) to the new syntactic constructions and abstractions of Java, the different implementation of the key concepts and mechanisms, and the application of the object-oriented approach when solving specific tasks

АКТУАЛЬНІ ПИТАННЯ ПІДГОТОВКИ МАЙБУТНІХ УЧИТЕЛІВ ПРЕДМЕТІВ ПРИРОДНИЧОГО ЦИКЛУ В УМОВАХ РЕФОРМИ НУШ

The article examines the actual issues of training future teachers of science subjects in the context of the reform of the New Ukrainian School. Special attention is paid to the role of STEM education, environmental awareness, inclusive teaching methods, and teacher training to work in a multilingual environment. The purpose of the article is to study the peculiarities of the training of future teachers of science subjects in the conditions of the reform of the National Academy of Sciences. Research methods. A complex of the following methods was used during the research: theoretical - analysis, synthesis, generalization, systematization, specification, comparison, theoretical modeling; empirical - questionnaires, interviews, analysis of the results of students' activities. Research results. The training of future teachers of natural sciences takes place in the context of the modernization of the educational system. Strengthening practical skills also becomes a priority, in particular through laboratory classes and work in the field. In addition, the role of digital technologies in the educational process is growing. Teachers must be able to use a variety of online resources and virtual labs to improve teaching effectiveness. In particular, this concerns the use of platforms for distance learning, which is becoming relevant in the conditions of modern challenges. Particular attention should be paid to the formation of competencies in the field of STEM, which are becoming more and more in demand. Taking into account modern environmental challenges, teachers should be ready to educate schoolchildren in environmental awareness. Also, during the reform, the value of inclusive education increases, which requires teachers to be able to adapt teaching methods for children with different educational needs.

EFFECTIVENESS OF ORGANIZING PHYSICS LABORATORY LESSONS AND DEMONSTRATION OF EXPERIMENTS

Scientific information has always been verified and based on practice and experience. Physics, on the other hand, expresses information about phenomena in the material world through experience. Therefore, the most effective way to check theoretical information is conducting experiments and laboratory training. In the article, special attention is paid to the main methodological approaches to the effective organization of laboratory classes, the fact that experimental demonstrations are based on scientific innovations, as well as the role of laboratory work in the formation of scientific research and practical skills in students.

Investigative and collaborative experimental activities using simple purification of curcuminoids by column chromatography

This work describes the use of turmeric in the teaching concepts and laboratory techniques of organic chemistry to students in introductory classes of licentiate, bachelor’s and industrial chemistry courses, as well as to pharmacy and chemical engineering students at Universidade Federal Fluminense, in Niterói/RJ/Brazil. Considering investigative and collaborative activities and Vygotsky theory, the discussed concepts were everyday natural products, green chemistry, purification and separation of organic substances, molecular interactions, organic compound extraction techniques, and thin-layer and column chromatography. The activities were applied for four 3-hour classes for 31 students in 7 introductory organic chemistry laboratory classes for Chemistry and for 43 students in 4 experimental organic chemistry classes for Pharmacy and Chemical Engineering courses, in the years 2022–23. The teaching-learning process methodology involved 4 moments/classes: a) discussions about organic chemistry; b) discontinuous extraction of turmeric and thin-layer chromatography; c) column chromatography; and d) discussions about results and the learning process. After the sequence of classes, it was possible to observe the students’ motivation with the ease of separating curcuminoids and the understanding of the relationship between theoretical concepts and practice, as well as the understanding of the importance of low waste production.

A Case Study of an Antibiotic Discovery Laboratory Autonomous Learning Assignment—An Evaluation of Undergraduate Students’ Disciplinary Bias

Current higher education trends are moving towards interdisciplinary curricula to provide new tools for solving complex issues. However, course design and learning tracks still create divisions between scientific disciplines. This study aimed to evaluate the disciplinary bias of second-year undergraduate students of biotechnology engineering in the organic chemistry laboratory class through a laboratory setting involving blended disciplines. An experiment on antibiotic discovery that integrates parallel and combinatorial organic chemistry syntheses with microbiology techniques was chosen. As a part of an activity, students had free choice in designing the arrangement of the organic compounds and the two bacterial species by setting up the layout for a 96-well plate. The study visually analyzed students’ plate layouts (n = 74) according to discipline classification and the spatial arrangements of organic compounds (e.g., products and libraries). The results identified four themes that are suggested to reflect students’ vertical, lateral, and interdisciplinary thinking, as most were found to be in the procedural knowledge range and between Bloom’s application and analysis dimensions. Using this study’s thematic analysis methodology in chemistry and related educational fields can provide a pedagogical reflective tool and advance personalized teaching and interdisciplinarity.

The use of active forms of interaction in the educational process Of the military institute

The article considers the possibility of using active teaching methods, such as business games and a round table, in the educational process of the military institute, discusses the stages of preparation and scenarios, provides examples of the use of these technologies in laboratory classes in the discipline «Chemistry», at a scientific and technical event of the Faculty of Artillery Armament.

Exploring feasibility of vision-based automated evaluation during laboratory courses in manufacturing

Manual assessment of laboratory exercises and assignments by human instructors is subjective and time-consuming, introducing errors, inconsistencies, and biases. A preliminary study developing an automated evaluation system utilizing computer vision has been proposed in this article to address these challenges. It utilizes computer vision to assess the accuracy and quality of components machined by students enrolled during the manufacturing laboratory course. The system includes image acquisition hardware, algorithms for objective decisions, and an interface for evaluating student performance. The system is implemented during one of the laboratory classes, and a comparative assessment is carried out with manual evaluations followed by student feedback. It has been shown that the system can address subjectivity concerns, reducing the workload on course instructors and teaching assistants. The research also broadens the utility of computer vision in manufacturing education and creates interest among enrolled students to appreciate the role of newer technologies in a core discipline.

Enhancing language learning: EFL teachers’ insights on online autonomous learning activities

Students can improve their skills, broaden their knowledge, and practice their language using online language learning resources. These resources include several activities designed to meet students’ requirements, promote self-learning, and fit their learning preferences. This study investigates EFL teachers’ perceptions of students’ performance in online self-learning activities during laboratory classes. They reflect on how these activities can excite students’ interest, motivate them, and involve them. The research addresses two questions: (a) what teachers think about the importance of e-learning laboratory activities in language learning, and (b) how these activities can promote personalized and active learning. The researchers employed a survey, interviews, field notes, reflections, and class recordings to describe, examine, and interpret the data through narrative analysis. The results show encouraging trends in engagement, motivation, interest, time, independence, and future use. Most students had strong critical thinking skills and enjoyed the self-completion of the assignments. Few learners became demotivated and lost interest owing to the absence of grading, seriousness, or effective surroundings. Additionally, the research shows that compared to traditional face-to-face learning, online learning gives teachers more time and opportunities to update their methods and help students in new ways.

Exploring Filipino Students’ Critical Thinking Skills: Basis for Enhancement of Science Laboratory Class Delivery

In today’s knowledge-based and rapidly changing society, developing students’ critical thinking skills in instruction is a vital concern in almost all science curricula. To acquire meaningful learning, learners need to develop skills in choosing suitable information, gauging the integrity of information, and crafting sound decisions. With this, creating learning spaces that stimulate critical thinking has become a challenge among educators. This study aims to explore the critical thinking profile of Filipino students in science laboratory classes as a means of generating insight for possible curricular enhancement. Utilizing a quantitative descriptive research design, a survey was administered to 300 junior high school students under K to 12 curricula. Results revealed that openness to different ideas is the most practiced aspect of critical thinking among Filipino students, while the planning and organization of information disclosed as the least. Furthermore, the importance of gathering information to support position is the most agreed factor, while the strategies in thinking of a problem in an experiment are the least. Hence, findings suggest that the necessary facets of critical thinking strategies should be explicitly articulated in the science curriculum framework, especially encapsulating it in the content and performance standards.

Increasing Students' Interest in Physics through Laboratory Experiments

This work is about how to make the study of physics fascinating for schoolchildren. We will focus on how to use laboratory classes to make the learning process more fun. We want to understand how to get students interested in physics. We think laboratory experiments are a good way. They allow students to experiment and see how scientific ideas work. This work is devoted to the study and implementation of effective methods to increase students' interest in physics. Special attention in this process is paid to the use of laboratory experiments as the main tool. Laboratory experiments are seen as a powerful attraction tool that allows students to interact directly with scientific concepts and laws. In the course of the work, modern approaches to teaching physics were analyzed, and the advantages of using laboratory experiments in the framework of increasing the interest of students were revealed. An important aspect of the study is also the identification of potential obstacles and difficulties in the implementation of laboratory experiments in the educational process. In the curricula of mathematics and physics in elementary school, the question of the consistency of the study of approximate calculations is discussed. As part of the seventh grade of physics, specific methodological recommendations are given for performing laboratory work and solving problems.

Studying robotics through distance learning methods in crisis conditions

The rapid development of information technologies and their application in production necessitates the continuous increase in the theoretical and practical training requirements for specialists in the field of automation of technological processes. Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive approach to organizing education, which includes the development of new teaching methods and techniques, as well as the constant updating of educational materials. Analyzing practical teaching experience under such conditions highlights a special direction in education that combines methods of scientific research, technology, engineering skills, and mathematical knowledge, known as STEM education. The full integration of the STEM approach is most effectively realized through the study of robotics. The development of robotic systems combines elements of mechanics, electronics, machine theory, measurement, programming, automated control, and information and communication technologies. Teaching robotics in engineering specialties enhances overall training levels, fosters creative abilities, and improves communication skills. Traditionally, a significant portion of time in robotics studies is devoted to working with equipment. However, initially due to quarantine restrictions and now due to limitations associated with ongoing hostilities, such access is restricted. A logical solution to this situation is the organization of the educational process in a remote format. This paper substantiates the need to supplement and coordinate remote education methods considering the cultural, psychological, and sociological factors influenced by the hostilities. It is proposed to expand the robotics basics course with topics covering the theory and practical application of conceptual modeling in the design of robotic systems and complexes. The possibility of conducting practical and laboratory classes based on online platforms such as Tinkercad Circuits and WokWi is analyzed and justified. A series of examples demonstrating the potential and capabilities of using this software in conjunction with conceptual modeling methods is proposed.

A Laboratory Class: Constructing DNA Molecular Circuits for Cancer Diagnosis

A Laboratory Class: Constructing DNA Molecular Circuits for Cancer Diagnosis

FORMATION OF RESEARCH AND COGNITIVE ACTIVITY OF STUDENTS

The article examines the issues of developing research and cognitive activity among students at the Dagestan State Pedagogical University (DSPU). In the context of rapid changes in information technologies and education, the focus is placed on the problems and methods of activating these aspects. The authors analyze the external and internal factors influencing students' cognitive activity and the motivations underlying the pursuit of knowledge and professional growth. An empirical study is presented, identifying the main obstacles to the formation of students' activity and suggesting solutions, including through the use of interactive teaching methods, case methods, project work, laboratory and practical classes, as well as brainstorming and technological tools. Purpose. The study aims to stimulate and enhance the research and cognitive activity of students at the Dagestan State Pedagogical University to improve the quality of higher education and form professionals capable of independent professional activity. Method and methodology. Application of a comprehensive approach, including the analysis of theoretical foundations of educational psychology, investigation of current interactive learning methods, and assessment of the practical application of the acquired knowledge in the educational process Results. Development and integration of interactive teaching methods, such as role-playing games, simulations, case methods, and project work, that demonstrate improved student motivation, activity, and quality of education. Scope of the results: higher education, particularly pedagogical universities and colleges, where the innovation can be integrated into teaching programs to develop critical thinking and independent research skills among future professionals.

Effectiveness of the pH Master Application on Acid-Base Concepts as a Digital Alternative to Conventional Laboratory Practices for Enhancing Student Learning Outcomes"

Traditional Chemistry Laboratories, such as acid-base reactions, are hard to demonstrate for present-day students in their lab classes when they need to have the knowledge exchange we had, graduating (and teaching) with mortar boards lined up and ready for weddings. The Evaluation Of The Digital Platform “pH Master” For Enhancing Chemistry Student Performance Through A Virtual Imitation of Traditional Lab Practices The study used Akker's research and development model, including initial studies, product design, testing products, and trials. Validation was done using the Aiken formula by two expert validators and three practitioners for all items with a V value greater than 0.87. Surveys for needs analysis involved 45 students, and the learning effects were assessed with 90 students across three schools. Results Students responded favourably to the pH Master app and perceived ineffable pedagogical value. Most students agreed on the necessity of doing practical activities about what was being learned, and almost all also had trouble understanding study materials specifically related to acids and bases. The results showed a statistically higher mean n-gain value in the experimental group than in control one (0.6622 versus 0.5691) by independent t-test across three schools at p < 0,001 significance level between the two groups. This then confirms that the media created did support student learning. This study highlights the potential of the pH Master app to enhance student learning experience and active involvement in chemical education, which suggests a promising approach towards digitalising conventional practical work.

Pathology students' perceptions of virtual learning: A case study of students in Saudi Arabia.

Pathology laboratory classes are traditionally conducted using a conventional light microscope. The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and recent technological advances necessitated remote learning through online classes using virtual slides (VS) instead of glass slides (GS). The purpose of this study was to gauge the perception of learning pathology using virtual slides (VS) as opposed to glass slides (GS) for medical students in Saudi Arabia. This study would help modify teaching methods with the advancement of the application of newer methods in online teaching. This two-phased study evaluated learning outcomes and perceptions in pathology online education for medical students. Using a questionnaire, Phase one analyzed second and third-year students' perceptions of the teaching methods after an online pathology course. Phase Two assessed the learning outcomes of third-year students during online practical sessions using a pretest and post-test design. Statistical data were collected using a simple additive approach. Statistical tools were used to determine the factors affecting students' perceptions. The accessibility of VS at any possible time, location, or device was the most advantageous trait of virtual learning (mean = 2.94±0.9). Students agreed the least with virtual slides as the only optimal method of learning pathology (mean = 2.25±0.9). Most enjoyed the virtual lab experience (51.7%) but still prefer both laboratory-GS and virtual-VS classes (83.5%). VS had the benefit of accessibility and efficiency. The acceptance of VS was significantly affected by the orientation prior to the online class. Findings showed that VS cannot completely replace GS and more aspects such as technical difficulties and prior VS experience should be explored.

From the classroom to the Living Lab for developing competencies in tourism higher education

Acknowledging the limitations of traditional pedagogy on conventional competencies, this study aims to explore the effectiveness of the Living Lab approach in enhancing students' competencies and propose a Living Lab model in tourism higher education. For this purpose, the data were collected from university students of tourism and hotel management who took a tourism Living Lab class in South Korea in 2019, 2021, 2022, and 2023. Adapting Sker and Floričić’s three stages of the Living Lab procedure, this study analyzed the data using feedback from observations, field notes, open-ended questionnaires, and reflective journals that enabled qualitative content analysis. The results of this research manifest four themes: competency in professional development, collaboration and networking, learning agility and adaptability, and emotional connections. Based on these, this study proposes a Living Lab model of tourism higher education and suggests practical implications for higher education institutions.

In Vivo Visualization of Calcium Transients during Fertilization and Early Development in C. elegans.

Calcium is an important signaling molecule during the oocyte-to-embryo transition (OET) and early embryogenesis. The hermaphroditic nematode Caenorhabditis elegans provides several unique advantages for the study of the OET as it is transparent and has an ordered gonad that produces one mature oocyte every ~23 min at 20 °C. We have modified the genetically encoded calcium indicator jGCaMP7s to fluorescently indicate the moment of fertilization within a living organism. We have termed this reporter "CaFE" for Calcium during Fertilization in C. elegans. The CaFE reporter wasengineered into a safe harbor locus in single copy, has no significant impact on physiology or fecundity, and produces a robust signal upon fertilization. Here, a series of protocols is presented for utilizing the CaFE reporter as an in vivo tool for dissecting the OET and embryogenesis. We include methods to synchronize worms, examine the effects of RNAi knockdown, mount worms for imaging, and to visualize calcium in oocytes and embryos. Additionally, we present the generation of additional worm strains to aid in this type of analysis. Demonstrating the utility of the CaFE reporter to visualize the timing of fertilization, we report that double ovulation occurs when ipp-5 is targeted by RNAi and that only the first oocyte undergoes immediate fertilization. Furthermore, the discovery of single-cell calcium transients during early embryogenesis is reported here, demonstrating that the CaFE reporter persists into early development. Importantly, the CaFE reporter in worms is simple enough to use for incorporation into course-based undergraduate research (CURE) laboratory classes. The CaFE reporter, coupled with the ordered gonad and ease of RNAi in worms, facilitates inquiry into the cell-cell dynamics required to regulate internal fertilization and early embryogenesis.

Visualization of the High Surface-to-Volume Ratio of Nanomaterials and Its Consequences.

When bulk materials are reduced in size to the nanometer scale, in particular, their surface-to-volume ratio increases drastically. We introduce some simple experiments on how to visualize this concept to students in the framework of a laboratory class. In the same context, experiments to demonstrate the consequences of this on the properties of the materials are introduced. This will involve solubility and chemical surface reactivity of the materials and properties originated from the surface. In the framework of their chemical reactivity, potential benefits and threads of nanomaterials due to their high surface-to-volume ratio will be discussed, such as applications as catalysts and their impact on nanotoxicology.

From Plastic Models to Virtual Reality Headsets: Enhancing Molecular Structure Education for Undergraduate Students

The comprehension of molecular structure is pivotal in chemistry education. Over the past decade, Mahidol University International College has employed various teaching tools for the introductory chemistry laboratory class. This paper outlines our evolutionary shift from traditional tools, such as plastic and plasticine models, to the integration of computer software, and ultimately to augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) tools—specifically, MoleculARweb and MolecularWebXR developed by École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne researchers. In this paper, we detail the implementation of these tools in our classes and present the outcomes of student surveys. Our instructional focus encompasses VSEPR, Atomic Orbitals, Molecular Orbitals, Skeletal Formula, and Enantiomers. This paper not only serves as a model for educators in general chemistry at secondary school or university levels to incorporate technology into their classrooms but also showcases a collaborative endeavor between Swiss and Thai researchers.