Cyberlab is a fully automated, Internet accessible laboratory for use in research and teaching, developed at Stanford University since 1996. Cyberlab is a completely self-contained system including a web-based scheduler, analysis tools, a data acquisition system, a digital notebook, extensive collaboration tools including simultaneous access to the equipment by multiple students, extensive security features, including firewall compliance without the need for IT intervention. The system is easily scalable and can be integrated with other distance learning programs.

Abstract:We discuss the design considerations of Internet Assisted Laboratories (Ilabs), their educational use for teachers and students in the classroom and for homework, and the results of several pedagogical evaluations at Stanford University of remote optics Ilabs we have used since 1998. ©2003 Optical Society of AmericaOCIS codes: (180.2520) Fluorescence microscopy; (170.2520) Fluorescence microscopy Internet-based learning extends beyond the confines of the classroom. Internet Assisted Laboratories (Ilabs) allow students and teachers access to experimental facilities from anywhere where there is an Internet connection. By controlling an actual experiment students can gain an understanding of and experience with physical phenomenon beyond that which the classroom offers. On-line experiments allow direct control of physical processes, observation of non-ideal phenomena such as noise and provide students with insight into practical limitations. By observing real physical processes under non-ideal conditions, students gain deeper physical intuition than textbooks and classroom lectures alone can offer. The Stanford Ilabs StudyAt Stanford University a pilot study was begun in 1997 with the following objectives: a) to develop a framework for integration of web-based classroom instruction and remote control of laboratory experiments; b) to implement a pilot program; c) to professionally and independently evaluate the performance and usefulness of the pilot program within the context of University learning; d) to explore new possibilities for improving classical classroom education. Since that early work, we have continued to innovate and develop new Ilabs technology and pedagogical tools. Although we have chosen optical experiments in this program, the concept of CyberLab lends itself for experimentation in almost any field, including but not limited to mechanical engineering, aeronautics, electrical engineering, physics, biology, chemistry, medicine, material science and earth sciences. Ilabs Designs and ImplementationsA functional web-based laboratory environment was created using novel Java-based technology specifically designed and implemented for Ilabs. The lab interface is designed with organization in mind that will teach good habits and etiquette. In addition to the remote control of physical experiments, the Ilabs interface also provides a lab scheduler, a reference library, course material, computer based analysis and simulation tools, testing facilities, and an electronic lab notebook. The Ilabs control software encrypts all transmissions, and allows control of equipment, even if it is located behind a firewall. New collaboration methods were developed allowing multiple users complete real-time access to data and experiments. Five optics laboratories have been implemented as well as a gas dynamics experiment, and a biology experiment using optical tweezers on nano-dimensions. A Stanford Ilabs showing optical diffraction is currently accessible at the OSA website www.optics4kids.org. Evaluation of Cyber...

Cyberlab is a fully automated, Internet accessible laboratory for use in research and teaching, developed at Stanford University since 1996. Cyberlab is a completely self-contained system including a web-based scheduler, analysis tools, a data acquisition system, a digital notebook, extensive collaboration tools including simultaneous access to the equipment by multiple students, extensive security features, including firewall compliance without the need for IT intervention. The system is easily scalable and can be integrated with other distance learning programs.

We discuss the design considerations of Internet Assisted Laboratories (Ilabs), their educational use for teachers and students in the classroom and for homework, and the results of several pedagogical evaluations at Stanford University of remote optics Ilabs we have used since 1998.

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