Development of interactive virtual laboratories for distance learning in natural sciences

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.46502/issn.1856-7576/2025.19.03.10

Keywords:

digital tools for education, distance learning, interactive virtual laboratories, natural sciences, simulation

Abstract

The research investigates the existing interactive virtual laboratories used in distance learning in natural sciences, focusing on their functions, potentials, and limitations. To achieve this, a descriptive research design was employed, involving a comprehensive review of recent scientific publications, methodological resources, and institutional documentation related to the use of virtual laboratories within the educational process. The selected platforms were analyzed for their effectiveness in facilitating remote science education through interactive experiments, simulation of scientific phenomena, and visualization of complex concepts in biology, chemistry, and physics disciplines. Key features identified across all platforms include high interactivity, gamification elements, accuracy, and adaptability to users’ needs. The study also established criteria to assess the educational efficiency of these tools. A comparative analysis revealed the advantages (engagement, flexibility, and conceptual clarity) and the challenges, including technical limitations and the need for pedagogical assistance in distance learning in natural sciences. As a result, the research proposes specific organizational and instructional recommendations to support the effective implementation of virtual laboratories. The outcomes are particularly relevant for higher education institutions aiming to enhance the professional preparation of future specialists in natural sciences, particularly during crises when distance learning is more applicable.

Author Biographies

Valentyna Kolodii, Kamianets-Podilskyi Ivan Ohiienko National University, Kamianets-Podilskyi, Ukraine.

Candidate of Biological Sciences (Ph.D.), Senior Instructor, Department of Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Economics, Kamianets-Podilskyi Ivan Ohiienko National University, Kamianets-Podilskyi, Ukraine.

Inna Koreneva, Oleksandr Dovzhenko Hlukhiv National Pedagogical University, Hlukhiv, Ukraine.

Doctor of Pedagogical Sciences, Professor, Professor of the Department of Theory and Methods of Teaching Natural Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Physical-Mathematical Education, Oleksandr Dovzhenko Hlukhiv National Pedagogical University, Hlukhiv, Ukraine.

Nataliia Prokopenko, Kharkiv National Automobile and Highway University, Kharkiv, Ukraine.

PhD in Biology, Associate Professor of the Department of Ecology, Road-Building Faculty, Kharkiv National Automobile and Highway University, Kharkiv, Ukraine.

Oksana Huda, Lutsk National Technical University, Lutsk, Ukraine.

Candidate of Technical Sciences, Associate Professor of Higher Mathematics, Department of Physics and Higher Mathematics, Faculty of Transport and Mechanical Engineering, Lutsk National Technical University, Lutsk, Ukraine.

Yuliia Shaforost, Bohdan Khmelnytsky Cherkasy National University, Cherkasy, Ukraine.

PhD in Chemical Sciences, Associate Professor, Head of the Department of Chemistry and Nanomaterials, Educational and Scientific Institute of Natural and Agrarian Sciences, Bohdan Khmelnytsky Cherkasy National University, Cherkasy, Ukraine.

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Published

2025-09-30

How to Cite

Kolodii, V., Koreneva, I., Prokopenko, N., Huda, O., & Shaforost, Y. (2025). Development of interactive virtual laboratories for distance learning in natural sciences. Eduweb, 19(3), 153–168. https://doi.org/10.46502/issn.1856-7576/2025.19.03.10

Issue

Vol. 19 No. 3 (2025)

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Articles

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Copyright (c) 2025 Valentyna Kolodii, Inna Koreneva, Nataliia Prokopenko, Oksana Huda, Yuliia Shaforost

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