Educational Laboratory Research Articles

Virtual laboratories for engineering and science education in open and distance learning

Higher education (HE) consists of both conventional and non-conventional methods of learning. Open and Distance Learning (ODL) is a non-conventional system where teachers (often referred to as facilitators) are physically not present. The conduct of practical in engineering and science education using ODL remains a challenge due to inadequate technology and the dispersion of the students, which results in a graduate skills gap in ODL programs. There is a possibility of using a cloud computing set-up, as well as platforms for the creation of simulated virtual practical settings (virtual laboratories-VLs), which could be accessible by ODL engineering and science and education-based students notwithstanding their locations. This paper adds to existing knowledge on VLs and discusses these inadequacies in engineering and science education with emphasis on the enhancement of online and collaborative learning, as well as the possible laboratory (lab) requirements. In addition, the paper highlights contemporary trends and some issues in VLs and remote labs.

Development of a Method to Enhance the Efficiency of Establishing VR Educational Laboratories

This study investigates the development of an efficient method for establishing virtual reality (VR) educational laboratories, focusing on enhancing teaching outcomes in technical fields exemplified through English classes. The integration of VR in technical education has been proven to improve learning efficiency, with studies showing a learning rate increase of 75-90% and a knowledge acquisition speed of up to four times faster. Despite these benefits, prolonged VR exposure can result in discomforts such as dizziness, eye strain, and cognitive fatigue. This study proposes a Fibonacci-based approach to structure VR learning sessions to address these challenges. By organizing session intervals according to the Fibonacci sequence and incorporating structured breaks, this method supports optimal cognitive processing, minimizes physical discomfort, and allows for smoother transitions between the virtual and real environments. A practical experiment involving 24 students was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of this approach. The results revealed statistically significant improvements in learning outcomes and adaptation compared to traditional continuous VR sessions, with a p-value of less than 0.05. These findings suggest that the Fibonacci-based method offers a promising solution to the challenges associated with extended VR exposure in educational settings, enabling more effective and comfortable learning experiences. This approach holds potential for broader application in various technical fields, where VR serves as a tool for enhancing educational outcomes.

Digital media and socialization in primary school: a sociological analysis of the Edumat+ experience for environmental sustainability and social inclusion

The paper initiates a theoretical, scientific and methodological reflection on the design and experimentation of communicative and digital artefacts, such as infographic mats, within formal educational contexts, like primary schools, to educate on environmental sustainability and social inclusion by working on the implementation of soft skills in children. Since 2022, the Digital Education Lab of the Department of Planning, Design and Technology of Architecture at Sapienza University of Rome has embarked on an interdisciplinary path of designing and experimenting with educational paths through STEAM, titled Edumat+. The objectives are two: 1. to reflect on the educational effectiveness of the communicative artefacts, proposed in terms of enhancing learning and teaching processes in children's situated contexts, with particular attention to the linguistic and narrative strategies adopted, in relation to educational objectives and the cognitive domain; 2. to reflect on a procedural methodological framework underlying the design of media and educational artefacts in formal educational contexts, to analyse the socialization processes related to the use of technology in classroom, with particular reference to coding. This contribution will present the experience of designing and experimenting with the Edumat+ case study, reflecting on the complexity of effective interdisciplinary educational media design attentive to stimulating socialization dynamics in the school.

Optimizing the Development of Ecotourism Potential of Lemor Botanical Garden as a Tourist Attraction

Indonesia natural diversity supports a thriving tourism industry, including in Lombok Timur Regency, which is known for its natural attractions. Among these is the Lemor Botanical Garden, a conservation and tourism site covering 82.9 hectares with 282 plant species. Despite offering various facilities, the absence of adequate informational graphics hinders visitors from locating essential amenities such as toilets, prayer rooms, and specific areas, reducing their overall comfort and satisfaction. This descriptive qualitative study was conducted at Lemor Botanical Garden, Lombok Timur. Primary data were obtained through observation and interviews, while secondary data were collected from books and journals. The analysis used Milles and Huberman's interactive model, with triangulation and member checking ensuring the validity of findings. The research also examined the garden’s potential as a natural laboratory for geography education, using three main indicators. The findings highlight the need for improving signage and transportation facilities to enhance accessibility and visitor experience. Active participation of POKDARWIS in management is crucial, particularly in providing tour guides and security personnel. Further recommendations include the introduction of environmental education, conservation programs, and cultural activities. Improved visitor facilities, such as prayer rooms, toilets, dining areas, and better accessibility, are also essential to support sustainable tourism. Lemor Botanical Garden holds substantial potential for ecotourism development due to its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty. However, challenges such as limited promotion and competition from other destinations must be addressed. Strengthening infrastructure, enhancing visitor engagement, and prioritizing conservation can ensure its long-term sustainability while benefiting the local community.

LIVE FOLK-COLLOQUIAL SPEECH IN THE WORKS OF WRITERS ASSOCIATED WITH THE KOSTROMA REGION

In 2024, seven books were published in the series «Kostroma Dialects: Materials and Research», developed by N.S. Gantsovskaya, G.D. Neganova and T.V. Osipenko within the framework of the educational and scientific research laboratory «Lexicology and Lexicography» of Kostroma State University: three monographs, two dialect dictionaries, an ethnodialect dictionary-textbook and a study guide. This scientific and publishing project can be attributed to one of the largest in modern Russian philology. Its multidimensional nature is truly impressive, and its relevance, scientific value and social significance are beyond doubt. The published review is a review of one of the publications of the project – the collective monograph «The Folk Speech of the Kostroma Region in the Works of Writers».

Dentaltrack web-based application in managing dental health laboratory tools and materials

Practice consumables are materials or goods that can only be used once or several times. Dental Health Education Laboratories in Indonesia still do not have a good system in managing the practice tools and materials used in their operations and are carried out manually, resulting in frequent stockouts. A web-based dental health laboratory practice tool and material management application is an information system designed to overcome problems and improve the quality of practice tool and material management in dental health education laboratories. Objective: The study aims to develop a web-based dental health laboratory practice tool and material management application and implement a web-based dental health laboratory practice tool and material management application in the Dental Health Department. This research method uses the RAD (Rapid Application Development) method for the reason of shortening the system processing time and with UML (Unified Modeling Language) as its development tool. While the application itself is made using the PHP & MySQL programming languages ​​and Ajax to help the automatic data retrieval process. This study produces a web-based Dentaltrack application that is able to integrate all parts of the dental health education laboratory service so that it can increase the effectiveness of services to dental health students. Keywords: Dentaltrack, application, managing, dental health, laboratory

Digitalization of information systems and educational laboratory management in higher education institutions

This study aims to develop an Information and Educational Laboratory Management System application based on SIONLAP. SIONLAP is designed and developed following educational institution elements' duties, needs, and functions. The system is developed to convert manual procedures, forms, and workflows into digital formats. Workflow processes can be optimized and automated through the implementation of SIONLAP. Documents and records generated by SIONLAP will be in digital data form, which can facilitate data processing and strategic analysis for planning, organizing, implementing, documenting, monitoring, reporting, evaluating, and developing educational laboratories, thereby improving management and continuous services in support of the implementation of the Tri Dharma of Higher Education. The research method refers to the waterfall method, with testing using the black box method. The results of the SIONLAP 2.0 application research show that it 1) provides more user-friendly user access management capabilities to facilitate users in higher education institutions with multi-role functions; 2) simplifies the data management and information workflow of equipment inventory; and 3) offers a laboratory asset rental feature as a means for higher education institutions to generate revenue from their laboratory assets

Stocked: An Educational Lab Safety Card Game

Stocked: An Educational Lab Safety Card Game

Strategies used in blended and learning and virtual laboratories for STEAM education

This paper explores the development of online learning practices in engineering education at “Gh. Asachi” Technical University in Iaşi (TUIaşi) from 1994 to present, including the Covid-19 pandemic period. It highlights ways in which blended teaching and learning (BTL), including virtual laboratories, gradually replaced the traditional face-to face teaching style. By 2020 advances in Internet technology and the latter’s widespread use had already enabled the emergence of hybrid classes. The author present his contribution to the development of online learning practices at the above public higher education institution, which boasts being the oldest in engineering education in Romania. At present, this university uses Moodle to manage its online learning programme. The paper looks into the following topics: use of the Internet and of educational platforms at the Departments of Teacher Training at Al. I. Cuza University (UAIC, Iaşi) and TUIaşi; implementation of innovative teaching practices, such as e-pedagogy; transition to blended learning as the dominant student-centred teaching style; contribution of digital technology to greater learner engagement and satisfaction; collaboration with universities from Romania, the Republic of Moldova, Egypt, and other European countries.

Estimation of Radon activity in the nuclear security laboratory at the basement level of a building

Abstract Among all radiation exposure, the second leading cause of lung cancer is Radon while smoking is the primary contributor. The identification of the source and extent of Radon contamination is paramount for the formulation and implementation of measures aimed at reducing Radon levels in indoor spaces. Given the serious health implications, numerous countries and regions have implemented stringent Radon exposure limits and regulations to safeguard public health. The present work is to study the activity of 222Rn within a nuclear education laboratory. For the detection of gamma rays, a High-purity Germanium detector, with 34% relative efficiency and 0.6 mm carbon window was used. However, for the adsorption of Radon activity, 70 g charcoal in metal tin was employed. The spectrum was obtained using PROSPECT software and was calibrated using a 152Eu standard source. The analysis of the spectrum was done using CANDLE. The radionuclides 214Pb, 214Bi, and 40K which have gamma rays of 351keV, 609 keV, and 1460 keV, respectively are investigated. The measured activity of 222Rn radionuclide was found to be ranging between 9.77±0.73 Bq/Kg to14.00±1.00 Bq/Kg.

A Critical Analysis of the Impact of Virtual Laboratories on Educational Advancement

This article presents the findings of a comprehensive literature review that investigates the use of virtual laboratories in educational settings. Virtual laboratories offer numerous advantages for students, teachers, and the advancement of a nation, particularly in the realm of education and learning. Some advantages of this platform include the promotion of students' critical thinking abilities, cost-effectiveness due to its modest resource requirements, adaptability, flexibility, and enhancement of students' scientific literacy. Nevertheless, despite the advantages offered by virtual laboratories, it is crucial to continuously evaluate this platform. For example, the proficiency of instructors who teach students via virtual laboratories, as well as the instructional materials used in this platform, need to be constantly updated. A systematic literature analysis was conducted on 10 publications retrieved from multiple databases. The findings of the review indicate that virtual laboratories in education have a positive impact across various domains such as enhancing students' cognitive capacities, enhancing the efficiency of e-learning, being cost-effective and adaptable, and enhancing students' scientific literacy skills.

Performance of The Occupational Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) Culture in Educational Laboratories

Performance of The Occupational Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) Culture in Educational Laboratories

Immersive learning of the young generation using a mobile learning lab

In order to counter modern threats, knowledge and ablity to act in the face of emerging dangers are necessary. It is not possible to solve these problems without proper training of the population, including the younger generation, in the field of life safety. The development of the modern education system involves the introduction of modern technologies and innovative educational projects into the educational process, including immersive teaching methods. Immersive learning is the most effective and safe way to develop sustainable skills for safe behavior in various emergency and dangerous situations. The aim of this study is to increase the level of training of the younger generation in the field of life safety. To achieve the aim set, the authors: analyzed the main normative legal acts regulating the issues of training the population in the field of life safety; studied previously completed scientific papers and publications in this field of research; the problematic issues of training the younger generation in the field of life safety are considered; identified the most effective ways of training the younger generation based on the use of modern technologies. To solve the identified problems and achieve the research aim, the authors propose using the latest achievements and trends in the educational environment to develop a unique educational product – the mobile educational laboratory «Country of Safety». The paper substantiates the relevance and effectiveness of the creation and use of a mobile training laboratory in the education system, analyzes the experience of using similar complexes on the topic of road safety in Moscow and the Moscow region. The main emphasis is put on the organization of practical training of the younger generation on the basis of a mobile educational laboratory using game forms of learning, virtual reality technologies and environment modeling using 3D visualization. As conclusions, the planned results of the development and implementation of the mobile training laboratory «Country of Safety» in the activities of both the Ministry of Emergency Situations of Russia and educational organizations are proposed.

Educative Web-Based Virtual as a Learning Media For Training Scientific Attitude In High School Student

Media is important in learning, especially with the development of science and technology. This study aims to design and develop a virtual laboratory based on web education as a learning media and to train the scientific attitudes of high school students. The type of research used in Research and Development (RD) refers to the nine stages of Borg and Gall. The feasibility test of web education uses a validation questionnaire of material experts, language experts, media experts, and educator response questionnaires. The study results showed that material experts comprised 87.5%, language experts comprised 94%, media experts comprised 91.5%, and educator response questionnaires comprised 85.33%. So, web-educative biology is a very feasible category. The effectiveness of the media in training scientific attitudes is known to have an average n-gain value of 0.59 (moderate) for the experimental class and 0.39 (moderate) for the control class. Based on the results of the t-independent test, a sig of 0.00 α value (0.05) was obtained, which means that H1 is accepted and H0 is rejected. It is concluded that the web-based educational Virtual Laboratory is effective in training the scientific attitudes of high school students and is suitable for use as a biology learning medium.

TECHNOLOGIES FOR EDUCATIONAL INNOVATION: A BIBLIOMETRIC ANALYSIS OF SCIENTIFIC PRODUCTION FROM 2013 TO 2023

This article aims to demonstrate relevant researchers, journals, and articles that deal with technologies for educational innovation, published between 2013 and 2023, in order to compose the core of a bibliographic reference on the topic in question and its bibliometric analysis. Using the ProKnow-C method with representative articles in the academic field. From this research, 25 articles were selected, including the article “Virtual laboratories for education in science, technology, and engineering: A review” by Potkonjak et al. (2016), the journals British Journal of Educational Technology and Computers and Education, and the researchers Anderson, T et al. Bozkurt, A & Zawacki-Richter, O and Potkonjak, V et al. The results allow researchers and professionals to optimize their research, supported by a relevant bibliography on technologies for educational innovation.

МОЖЛИВОСТІ ВИКОРИСТАННЯ МОБІЛЬНИХ ТЕХНОЛОГІЙ ПІД ЧАС ПРОВЕДЕННЯ НАВЧАЛЬНОГО ФІЗИЧНОГО ЕКСПЕРИМЕНТУ

The article discusses modern approaches to the integration of mobile technologies into the educational process, in particular during physical experiments. The potential of mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets, to perform experimental tasks in physics has been analyzed, which significantly expands the capabilities of educational laboratories and increases the efficiency of the educational process. The purpose of the article is to clarify the expediency of using mobile technologies during the organization and conduct of an educational physical experiment. The research was based on a comprehensive approach, which included the analysis of scientific and methodical sources, periodicals, Internet resources regarding the possibilities of using mobile technologies in the educational process, in particular in the study of physics. Modern mobile applications, tools and platforms that can be used in educational physical experiments were also analyzed. The main attention is paid to mobile applications that make it possible to measure physical quantities, model and visualize physical processes in real time. The use of such technologies greatly simplifies conducting experiments both in the classroom and in distance learning conditions. It is emphasized that mobile technologies make it possible to reduce the need for expensive laboratory equipment. This makes education more accessible to a wide range of students. The advantages of using mobile technologies during physical experiments are highlighted, including convenience, accessibility, the possibility of instant data analysis and their visualization. In addition, the issue of individualization of training is taken into account, when each student can work independently at his own pace, using various applications and technologies. Mobile devices allow you to conduct physical experiments even at home, which significantly expands the opportunities for independent work of students.

A comparative microbiological study of the essential oils from the genus Rosa L.

The medicinal plant raw material containing essential oils always attract the attention of scientists from various countries worldwide. The search for new sources of the plant raw material rich in biologically active substances, particularly volatile compounds, remains a relevant task in modern pharmaceutical science. Our focus has been drawn to Rosa damascena Mill. of the “Veselka” (“Rainbow”) variety grown in the natural environment of Zaporizhzhia; its essential oil exhibits anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiseptic effects. To obtain a valuable medicinal plant raw material from Rosa damascena with a high content of essential oil, it was introduced into in vitro culture to produce aseptic regenerants, followed by their reintroduction into the natural environment. Aim. To conduct a comparative microbiological study of essential oils from Rosa damascena of the “Veselka” variety grown via clonal micropropagation in in vitro culture and in the natural environment of Zaporizhzhia. Materials and methods. The study objects were essential oils obtained by water distillation from rose petals cultivated using the method of clonal micropropagation in in vitro culture (at the premises of the Educational and Scientific Medical Laboratory Center with a vivarium) and the natural environment of Zaporizhzhia. The study of the antimicrobial activity was conducted in the microbiological laboratory of the Department of Microbiology, Virology, and Immunology at Zaporizhzhia State Medical and Pharmaceutical University. Results and discussion. The essential oils from Rosa damascena grown via clonal micropropagation in in vitro culture and under natural conditions in Zaporizhzhia effectively inhibited the growth of E. coli (21.3 mm and 12.0 mm, respectively) and S. aureus (11.3 mm and 10.2 mm, respectively). The results of the study on C. albicans indicate a high antifungal activity in both essential oils; the mean inhibition zone diameter in the experiments using the oil from Rosa damascena cultivated in in vitro culture is less: 33.3 mm compared to 40 mm in the experiments with the oil from roses grown in the natural environment of Zaporizhzhia. Conclusions. The method of clonal micropropagation of Rosa damascena of the “Veselka” variety is effective for obtaining a large amount of planting material in a short time with the subsequent reintroduction into the natural environment to expand the raw material base of valuable medicinal plants with a high content of essential oils. The results of the study of the antimicrobial activity of the essential oil of Rosa damascena of the “Veselka” variety cultivated through clonal micropropagation in in vitro culture have exhibited a high antimicrobial activity and moderate antifungal activity compared to the essential oil from Rosa damascena grown in the natural environment of Zaporizhzhia. Therefore, Rosa damascena Mill. of the “Veselka” variety cultivated under in vitro conditions is a promising source of essential oil with a high antibacterial effect in order to create new herbal formulations.

The modern aspects of network form of implementation of educational programs in health care.

The network form of implementation of educational programs in health care or network form of education, is an innovative approach to educational process that is actively applied in medical and adjacent universities to improve quality of future specialists training. This approach implies cooperation of various educational and scientific institutions, such as universities, research institutes, medical organizations, as well as application of electronic resources and remote technologies. The article considers legislative regulation of implementation of online form of educational programs and application of online form of education in the field of health care in the Russian Federation. The results of study carried out in scientific and educational laboratory of Educational Development of the Siberian State Medical University that allows to evaluate implementation of individual educational programs in medical schools in Russia are considered. The Russian projects of online forms of interaction in health care that significantly contribute into development of health care are considered in terms of training professional personnel.

Ethical mediarhetoric in videogame cybertexts: procedural explication of moral topics in an educational context

Introduction. Education in the field of ethics and practical philosophy is important both within the framework of educational and disciplinary discourse and in terms of personal and social formation of a person, his/her value-behavioral system of coordinates. Video game cybertexts containing moral themes in their narrative and procedural structure can increase interest in the study of theoretical issues of ethics and create a special virtual-simulative space of moral experimentation. Materials and Methods. The theoretical part of the paper is based on the conceptual framework of understanding video games as a procedural cybertext formulated by E. Aarseth and I. Bogost. The operation of the multimodal-semiotic structure of video games is based on the ideas of J. Havreljak and W. Toch. The experimental cluster of work is realized on the principles of Digital Game-Based Learning developed by M. Prensky and a set of pedagogical practices on the use of ICT-based learning. Results. Based on the interpretation of the features of multimodal semiotics of ethically engaged video games, two modes of their distinction are revealed – narrative and gameplay. Narrative represents moral themes through narrative storytelling, and gameplay through gameplay. It has two forms of manifestation and certainty - external-iconic (based on visual reading and ethically binary interpretation of videogame cybertext) and procedural, where at the level of program architectonics the possibilities of choice and realization of simulations of ethical activities are created. The experiment allowed a radical change for the better (from 20% to 73%) in most students' expectations about the educational possibilities of video games in this disciplinary area. The DGBL methodology helped the learners (80%) to experience (80%) the practical dimension of important ethical issues and to conduct a series of moral experiments within the virtual simulations. Most of the students (75%) were able to correctly relate theoretical knowledge from philosophy and ethics to specific video game situations and successfully interpreted them. Conclusion. Given the time-consuming nature of these cybertexts, it is recommended that they be used only as supplementary media to the main course texts. It seems most appropriate to study them as part of an elective to a basic course in ethics or philosophy. This material could also be the basis for the creation of an educational laboratory on practical ethics in a social and humanitarian quantorium.

Research Trends of Virtual Laboratory in Science Learning to Improve Affective Domain: a Systematic Literature Review

A virtual laboratory is a simulated environment that enables users to conduct various experiments anytime and anywhere without the need for a physical laboratory. Its main goal is to identify trends (such as publication year, education level, publication journal, keywords used, and academic disciplines) and map the platforms and affective domains related to virtual laboratories in science education. This systematic review utilizes 41 articles found in the scopus database from 2013 to 2023 using pre-determined criteria. The method applied is a systematic literature review following PRISMA guidelines. The results show that publication trends have fluctuated over time, with a significant increase in the last four years. Most studies were conducted at the higher education level, with the journal of chemical education being the most dominant publication outlet. Chemistry emerged as the most frequently explored discipline, and "virtual laboratory" appeared as a commonly used keyword. Various virtual laboratory platforms were employed in these studies, and most of the reported affective domains related to positive attitudes towards the learning process