The Physics department, Virtual University of Pakistan (VUP) organized an insightful workshop on Teaching Experimental Labs Online, hosted by Prof. Dr. Samya Zain of Susquehanna University, USA on June 18, 2025. The event, which took place at VUP's Computer Lab G-10, Islamabad, and aimed to explore innovative methods for conducting experimental labs remotely.
The workshop kicked off with a welcome address from Dr. Tanveer, Director of ORIC, and was followed by remarks from the focal person, Dr. Jamila Bashir Butt, Professor & incharge of Physics at VUP. Prof. Dr. Samya Zain introduced a variety of strategies for effectively conducting remote labs. She shared her experiences from Susquehanna University, where she has utilized tools such as online simulations, customized lab kits, and Vernier software to bridge the gap in hands-on lab experiences for students.
Dr. Samya emphasized the importance of adapting teaching methods to cater to different student learning styles, ensuring that both in-person and online students are supported. She outlined four key components for remote labs: pre-lab theory, pre-lab quizzes, lab reports, and post-lab quizzes. These elements are essential to maintain the integrity and educational value of online experimental work.
The workshop’s second session included hands-on activities where participants, both in-person and online, were encouraged to create virtual lab setups using platforms like PHET and Javalab Science Simulations. Faculty members from VUP’s Biology department also demonstrated online resources such as LabXchange for biology experiments.
Dr. Fakhar Inam, Director of the Quality Enhancement Cell, highlighted the need for further advancements in online resources to replicate the physical lab experience fully, while Dr. Arshad Saleem Bhatti (former rector), spoke about the significance of minimal resource utilization for maximum educational impact in distance learning.
The workshop concluded with a group photo of participants and a reflection on the potential for innovation in the future of online science education.