Share Paper: Exploring STEM Faculty's Concerns in Adopting Virtual Laboratories

  1. Shalaunda Reeves, University of Florida, United States
  2. Zhen Xu, University of Florida, United States
  3. Kent Crippen, University of Florida, United States
Tuesday, October 16 11:30-11:50 AM Las Vegas Ballroom 2

Abstract: Virtual laboratories could potentially provide anywhere, anytime laboratory experience to STEM undergraduate students. However, little research has been done to explore the instructor's use and perception of virtual laboratories. This study used Stages of Concerns Questionnaire to explore to which degree do the undergraduate STEM instructors' understand and use virtual laboratories, and their concerns about this technology. The data shows that instructors are not using virtual laboratories, even in online courses, and they are not concerned about adopting this technology in teaching. Significance of this study and direction to instructors' professional development and future research are provided.