2006): Does a virtual networking laboratory result in similar student achievement and satisfaction

Delivery of content in networking and system administration curricula involves significant hands-on laboratory experience supplementing traditional classroom instruction at the Rochester Institute of Technology. Providing the resources necessary in the traditional physical laboratory setting is challenged by increasing budgetary and space constraints. Delivery of laboratory instruction in a distance virtual format is a potential cost-effective solution to the problem, at the same time it presents technical challenges [3, 5]. The blend of face-to-face and online instruction offers the opportunity not only to solve the resource issue, but also to sustain contact beyond the borders of the classroom and extend the learning environment. This paper presents the results of an action research study conducted to investigate the impact on student achievement and student satisfaction of delivering laboratory instruction in a distance delivered virtual laboratory, and discusses some of the challenges encountered in offering this virtual experience