Laboratory Work

Laboratory Work

Laboratory work is a core active learning method in HE, offering students hands-on experience with scientific concepts, tools, and techniques. Modern approaches enhance traditional labs with open-ended inquiry, digital video guides, e-learning modules, and collaborative problem-solving.  

Alternative/linked methods: Lab-in-a-Box, Hardware-in-Homework (HiH), Open-Ended Labs, Blended Laboratory Learning, Prediction-Based Learning, Digital Video-Guided Labs, Student-Led Inquiry Labs 

Why?

• Promotes deep learning through hypothesis testing and critical thinking. 
• Improves preparation and confidence with pre-lab tasks and video guides. 
• Fosters autonomy and ownership of learning. 
• Enhances collaboration and teamwork. 

How?

• Integrate e-learning tasks and video guides for pre-lab preparation. 
• Design open-ended lab tasks with multiple solution paths. 
• Encourage group work and peer discussions. 
• Use digital tools for data collection and analysis. 
• Provide feedback through automated systems or peer evaluations. 

When?

• In STEM and health sciences courses requiring practical application. 
• In online, hybrid, or in-person formats. 
• For introductory to advanced levels, including capstone projects.
•  When aiming to bridge theory and practice or develop scientific reasoning. 

Get Started

• Start with e-learning modules to build foundational knowledge. 
• Use video guides to demonstrate lab procedures. 
• Design open-ended tasks that encourage exploration and inquiry. 
• Facilitate group discussions and peer feedback sessions. 

Digital Enhancement

• Use Moodle for pre/post-lab tasks and feedback. 
• Digital video guides for procedural instruction and revision. 
• Simulations and virtual labs for risk-free experimentation. 
• Collaborative tools (e.g., Padlet or Miro) for team interaction. 
• Discussion forums (Moodle/Teams) to build learning communities. 

Resources

• Byers, W. (2002) ‘Promoting active learning through small group laboratory classes’, University Chemistry Education, 6, pp. 28–34. Available at: https://rsc.li/3CfxP6b
• Croker, K., Andersson, H., Lush, D., Prince, R. and Gomez, S. (2010) ‘Enhancing the student experience of laboratory practicals through digital video guides’, Bioscience Education, 16(2). doi: 10.3108/beej.16.2. 
• Dantas, A.M. and Kemm, R.E. (2008) ‘A blended approach to active learning in a physiology laboratory-based subject facilitated by an e-learning component’, Advances in Physiology Education, 32(1), pp. 65–75. doi: 10.1152/advan.00006.2007. 
• Yoo, J.H. and Sayil, S. (2023) ‘Achieving active learning through collaborative online lab experiences’, Proceedings of the American Society for Engineering Education Annual Conference, Paper ID #38743.