Development of a remote laboratory system for external university students

Abstract

[Abstract]: This research project develops Remote Laboratory Software to allow students to perform laboratory experiments from off campus. The software allows students to externally use a Remote Laboratory, which is an experiment laboratory that is specially setup so students can operate it as if they were in the laboratory itself. Three times a year external students travel to the University of Southern Queensland for their practical experiments at residential school. As external students often live, and hence have families and work commitments, in different cities or other states, it is difficult for them to travel to the university campus at the required time. It was therefore both practical and useful to develop a Remote Laboratory System that students use to do selected experiments from home, reducing the time they are required to be on campus. Currently there are several Remote Laboratories in Australia, as a number of these systems were experiencing difficulties, a new system designed specifically for the University of Southern Queensland’s needs was a viable alternative. The project enables students to complete selected remote laboratory experiments set up at the University of Southern Queensland. They do this by using any computer with Internet access throughout the world to perform the experiments, discuss outcomes with other students, and be evaluated by practical course examiners.