WebLab: Exploring Science through Virtual Experiments
WebLab was a research project at The Open University’s Knowledge Media Institute (KMi) that explored how web-based simulations and remotely accessible experiments could support science education. It aimed to complement classroom learning by allowing students to investigate scientific ideas and access resources beyond their own school laboratories. Project overview
The project investigated how students and teachers in different schools could work together to plan, conduct and document experiments through a browser. Its work connected virtual models with practical experimentation, exploring how networked technologies could extend opportunities for learning science. Project approach
Achievements and outputs
The WebLab website brought together three examples of virtual science learning:
- FirstFlight: Learning materials exploring how aeroplanes fly, combining explanations, diagrams and interactive activities on airflow, lift, drag and wing design. These connected scientific principles with the experiments of the Wright brothers. FirstFlight resources
- Steam: A controlled animation of the Newcomen steam engine, enabling learners to explore its operating cycle and the relationship between the engine’s movement and pressure inside its cylinder. Steam engine demonstration
- Fuel Cells: Linked explanations and visual materials examining how fuel cells generate electricity, with sections covering their components and processes, including the anode, membrane, cathode and proton transfer. Fuel cell resources
The wider project also explored remote experimentation through activities such as Heronsgate School’s Mars Buggy environment. This demonstrated how a control programme developed for a classroom activity could also operate equipment at a remote location. WebLab research record
In 2000, WebLab provided a live link between a wind tunnel at The Open University and the Tomorrow’s World exhibition at Earls Court, demonstrating remote access to a physical experiment for a public audience. KMi historical archive
Project team
KMi’s project record identifies:
- Trevor Collins — The Open University’s Knowledge Media Institute: Listed as the project champion.
- Peter Whalley — The Open University’s Knowledge Media Institute: Researcher involved in developing WebLab and FirstFlight.
- Kevin Quick — The Open University’s Knowledge Media Institute: Researcher involved in developing the WebLab environment.
- Ben Hawkridge — The Open University: Listed as a project participant.
