A Critical Analysis of the Impact of Virtual Laboratories on Educational Advancement

Abstract

This article presents the findings of a comprehensive literature review that investigates the use of virtual laboratories in educational settings. Virtual laboratories offer numerous advantages for students, teachers, and the advancement of a nation, particularly in the realm of education and learning. Some advantages of this platform include the promotion of students' critical thinking abilities, cost-effectiveness due to its modest resource requirements, adaptability, flexibility, and enhancement of students' scientific literacy. Nevertheless, despite the advantages offered by virtual laboratories, it is crucial to continuously evaluate this platform. For example, the proficiency of instructors who teach students via virtual laboratories, as well as the instructional materials used in this platform, need to be constantly updated. A systematic literature analysis was conducted on 10 publications retrieved from multiple databases. The findings of the review indicate that virtual laboratories in education have a positive impact across various domains such as enhancing students' cognitive capacities, enhancing the efficiency of e-learning, being cost-effective and adaptable, and enhancing students' scientific literacy skills.