Physiology labs during a pandemic: What did we learn?

Area of Science:

• Physiology education
• Remote laboratory instruction
• Scientific teaching

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a rapid transition to online physiology laboratories across multiple institutions.
• Instructors redesigned remote-accessible experiments to maintain educational continuity during the shift from traditional classroom settings.

Discussion:

• The article examines the history, features, benefits, and challenges of online physiology laboratory teaching.
• A scientific teaching approach was applied to facilitate the redesign of laboratory courses for remote delivery.
• Themes emerged regarding the successes and difficulties encountered in online physiology lab instruction.

Key Insights:

• Collaborative online networks can foster information sharing and innovation among physiology instructors.
• Redesigning meaningful online physiology labs required significant effort and adaptation.
• The experience highlighted both the limitations and potential of remote laboratory education.

Outlook:

• Insights gained from this collaborative effort will shape future approaches to physiology laboratory teaching.
• The future of physiology labs may incorporate elements of both online and in-person instruction.
• Continued support and innovation through online communities are crucial for advancing physiology education.