What is Labster?
Labster is a simulation library that provides over 150 virtual science labs. Instructors can choose specific simulations to download and install within their D2L course free of charge. Simulations consist of an interactive lab activity in which students learn and apply their understanding of important STEM topics within the context of a virtual lab. Quiz questions are interspersed throughout many of the simulations to help students link their understanding of theory to the lab activity they are performing.
Who might consider using Labster?
If you are a STEM instructor, Labster could be a useful tool to enhance teaching and learning within your science course. These virtual labs can be used as standalone units, or they can be used as supplemental activities to reinforce important concepts or lab techniques. The Labster simulation catalog includes lab experiences for 21 course packages such as Chemistry, Physics, Food Science and nutrition, Engineering, Biology, Safety, Biotechnology, and others. If you would like to try out Labster, please contact the MSU IT Service Desk at ithelp@msu.edu to get access to the Labster simulations.
Why use Labster?
Well-designed lab experiences are a key part of student learning within STEM fields. While virtual labs can never replicate real-world lab experiences, simulation-based labs can enhance student learning because they provide students important opportunities for them to put their knowledge to use and engage in important scientific practices (e.g. developing models, constructing explanations, and arguing using data and evidence). For example, simulation-based learning environments have been shown to improve student learning, motivation and, self-efficacy within medical education (Makransky et. al., 2016).
How to use Labster?
Simulations are uploaded onto D2L and students can access virtual labs directly through the simulation link within D2L. Instructors can impersonate the Demo Student within their D2L course and complete the simulation to get the same experience that their students would have when engaging in the virtual lab. To promote student exploration and engagement with the simulation (as opposed to students focusing their attention on the correctness of their answers to quiz questions), we recommend using the simulation quizzes as a low-stakes formative assessment.
Where to find out more information on Labster?
If you would like to find out more information about Labster, please see the links below:
- General information about Labster
- List of available Labster simulations
- Labster resources page
- Labster help page
Stories/Feedback
We would love to hear from you about your experiences with Labster. How was the installation process? How are you using the Labster quizzes in your class? What are your students’ perceptions of Labster and their experiences with the simulations? If you would like to share some of your Labster stories (frustrations, joys, surprises) or need more information about Labster, contact the MSU IT Service Desk at ithelp@msu.edu.
References
Makransky, G., Bonde, M.T., Wulff, J.S. et al. Simulation based virtual learning environment in medical genetics counseling: an example of bridging the gap between theory and practice in medical education. BMC Med Educ 16, 98 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-016-0620-6
