University System of Maryland Rolls Out Virtual Science Labs Across All Campuses

The University System of Maryland has partnered with Labster to provide its virtual laboratory simulations across all USM institutions. The university is working to integrate virtual science labs into its course offerings as the COVID-19 pandemic has limited students' and instructors' access to classrooms.

"While it is difficult to replace the 'hands-on' experience of a real lab environment, we were very pleased to find a solution for our campuses that can help us de-densify the classroom by helping students prepare for labs in advance using simulations," said MJ Bishop, director of USM's Kirwan Center for Academic Innovation, in a statement. "Labster is both providing the tools as well as the support faculty need to learn how best to integrate the simulations into their course."

Students and faculty will have access to more than 150 virtual lab simulations, including biology, chemistry, physics and general sciences. Through the interactive simulations, students can perform realistic experiments, learn key science concepts, and practice their skills in a risk-free learning environment," according to a news announcement.

The rollout is part of USM's OnTrack initiative, a collaborative effort between the fully online University of Maryland Global Campus and the Kirwan Center to help USM institutions prepare for remote instruction. In addition to funding the Labster deal, USM OnTrack will provide professional development for faculty to help them incorporate the technology in their teaching.

About the Author

Rhea Kelly is editor in chief for Campus Technology, THE Journal, and Spaces4Learning. She can be reached at [email protected].

Featured

  • glowing blue nodes connected by thin lines in an abstract network on a dark gray to black gradient background

    Report: Generative AI Taking Over SD-WAN Management

    In a few years, nearly three quarters of network operators will use generative AI for SD-WAN management, according to a new report from research firm Gartner.

  • abstract pattern with interconnected blue nodes and lines forming neural network shapes, overlaid with semi-transparent bars and circular data points

    Data, AI Lead Educause Top 10 List for 2025

    Educause recently released its annual Top 10 list of the most important technology issues facing colleges and universities in the coming year, with a familiar trio leading the bunch: data, analytics, and AI. But the report presents these critical technologies through a new lens: restoring trust in higher education.

  • abstract image representing AI tools for reading and writing

    McGraw Hill Introduces 2 Gen AI Learning Tools

    Global education company McGraw Hill has added two new generative AI tools to help personalize learning experiences for both K–12 and higher ed students, according to a news release.

  • abstract image of fragmented, floating geometric shapes with holographic lock icons and encrypted code, set against a dark, glitchy background with intersecting circuits and swirling light trails

    Education Sector a Top Target for Mobile Malware Attacks

    Mobile and IoT/OT cyber threats continue to grow in number and complexity, becoming more targeted and sophisticated, according to a new report from Zscaler.