Virtual labs versus hands-on labs for teaching and learning computer networking: a comparison study
Loading...
Date
2017-01-16
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
International Journal of Research Studies in Educational Technology
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of simulation approach (virtual labs)
versus hands on labs approach for teaching and learning computer networking skills in Higher
Learning Institutions in Tanzania. The study was conducted at Sokoine University of Agriculture. The
theoretical framework which guided this study is Experiential Learning Theory. Experiments were
conducted involving configuring Virtual LAN using simulation and hands on Lab approach for
teaching and learning. The experiment involved control group and experimental group. In a control
group students were taught using Hands on Lab approach while in experiment group students were
taught using Simulation approach. In a control group, students were able to configure VLAN and
verify or troubleshoot the connection while in the experimental group students configured VLAN with
difficulty and failed to verify the connection. From the analysis of data obtained from instructors, it
was found that simulation approach is used to a greater extent compared to hands on labs. The reason
for this is because of the shortage of tools and hence, instructors rely mostly on the use of simulation
approach. Furthermore, students considered both simulation and hands on lab approaches as useful
teaching methods to enhance teaching and learning of computer networking skills. Students preferred
hands on lab approach to be used over simulation approach due to different reasons including: hands
on lab approach enables students to acquire practical or concrete skills and problem solving skills
compared to simulation approach. Therefore from the results of this study, hands on lab approach is
more effective for imparting practical and problem solving skills, knowledge and competency to
students compared to simulation approach.
Description
Journal article
Keywords
Virtual labs, Hands-on labs, Learning, Teaching, Computer networking, Comparison