What are the benefits of a virtual laboratory for student learning?

The Internet is becoming popular as it is not limited by political, geographic boundaries or cultural barriers. As the superhighway is becoming a reality, multimedia learning is becoming practical in the Internet environment. Using the Web as a teaching medium is an exciting prospect that makes remote learning easier, allows students to learn at their own pace, and encourages interactive learning. Learners can then schedule their time and progress of learning according to their own styles. Web-based teaching plus a management program can automatically monitor and mark the work of each learner. The lecturer’s time can be saved and redirected to identifying and helping learners who are having problems. In this study, a virtual laboratory was set up and tested by students. Updated laboratory sheets were distributed to students through the Internet and displayed on a Web browser. Students were able to undertake work using a virtual environment to test their designs. The response of students to this virtual laboratory was positive. Interview results and comments from students provided further opportunities for improvement of this Web-based laboratory approach. Use of the Internet in educatio