Can technology replace live preparations in student laboratories?

We have seen a trend in recent years toward reduction or elimination of student laboratories in many physiology curricula. Some departments have sought "alternatives" to live preparations in an attempt to retain an active learning experience for students. However, it seems as if few departments have seriously examined the specific educational objectives of their student laboratories to determine whether alternatives exist that will allow these objectives to be met. Technology certainly offers a variety of ways to provide active learning experiences. In some instances, technological approaches can be used to address the same educational objectives as traditional laboratories, while in others these objectives may be partially met by use of technology. However, it is important to recognize that some educational objectives can only be achieved through first-hand experience with live preparations.