Using Simulation Software to Create Laboratory Experiences in Lecture Courses

 

Ruth E. Beattie

Tested Studies in Laboratory Teaching, 2000, Volume 21

Abstract

One of the frustrations of teaching in a lecture-only biology course is that the instructor describes scientific experiments and methodologies related to the course content, but the students never have an opportunity to put this knowledge into practice. This paper discusses the use of simulation software in creating laboratory experiences for students in lecture courses. Two simulation programs, which the presenter has successfully used in the classroom, will be discussed: (a) Identibacter interactus – a simulation program for bacterial identification, and (b) Focus on Environment – an environmental program.

Keywords:  simulation, software

University of Nebraska, Lincoln (1999)