Virtual Labs for GE Biology

We redesigned a GE biology course by using existing web-based software to replace traditional wet labs. Two new modes of lab instruction were compared to the traditional offering: (1) all labs online with a "drop-by" help center and (2) a hybrid "flipped lab" model with two tracks of online and in-person labs alternating every week. Both modes included a face-to-face lecture. Engaging inquiry-based exercises were developed around each online activity where students are provided background information, guided though a series of basic experiments, encouraged to design their own experiments, and required to produce a simple scientific report that is delivered electronically. A rubric was designed so that graduate assistants can grade reports. The course offerings with online labs were piloted during the 2013/14 academic year. Formative assessment involved the tracking of students’ attitudes and performance. Summative assessment compared student performance for the online, hybrid and traditional modes.