In this session, Sujatha Kadaba, Assistant Professor of Science, Mathematics, and Technology at SUNY Empire State University, in Saratoga Springs, NY, will share her experience building and offering online labs in partnership with Carolina Distance Learning. The investigations have been designed for distance learning using in house laboratory components and state of the art technology tools.In this session, Sujatha Kadaba, Assistant Professor of Science, Mathematics, and Technology at SUNY Empire State University, in Saratoga Springs, NY, will share her experience building and offering online labs in partnership with Carolina Distance Learning. The investigations have been designed for distance learning using in house laboratory components and state of the art technology tools.
The best way to learn science is by doing science, but how can distance learning students do science in their homes? A lack of quality, safe, and affordable lab materials can prevent students from doing the kinds of rigorous, hands-on lab investigations they would on campus.
There are alternatives to traditional lab materials, such as videos and simulations. However, such alternatives do not fully capture the essence of a physical experimental setup. Videos are experienced passively, which makes them poor substitutes for interactive involvement. Most simulations are very low-stakes endeavors. Students can’t run out of materials, mistakes are easily reversed, and the number of possible outcomes is very limited. No preparation or cleanup is necessary; events typically do not unfold in real time.
Lab kits can provide quality instructional materials to support active, engaged learning. Ideally, a kit is comprised of multiple investigations, each with its own set of measurable student learning outcomes. With such a lab kit, the student is responsible for carrying out every aspect of the experimental procedure. Mistakes can happen, results may not be as anticipated (which does not necessarily mean they are incorrect), and troubleshooting is sometimes necessary. Using lab kits can provide raw material for rich discussions with the instructor and classmates. The lab experience lends itself to varied and robust assessment. Session participants will have the opportunity to discuss planning and implementation of lab kits and try a sample investigation.