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We’re glad you are here to learn more about simulated laboratories! Follow the videos below to learn about simulated labs, how they are created, and why they are important.

Developing Analogy-Based Science Laboratory Experiences

Below are some examples of Simulated Labs:

What is an “Analogy” ?

  1. A comparison between two things, typically for the purpose of explanation or clarification.
  2. A correspondence or partial similarity.
  3. A thing that is comparable to something else in significant respects.

Analogies- A Few Examples

  • He was as tall as a six foot three inch tree.
  • McBride fell 12 stories, hitting the pavement like a hefty bag filled with vegetable soup.
  • She walked into my office like a centipede with 98 missing legs.
  • Even in his last years, grand pappy had a mind like a steel trap, only one that had been left out so long, it had rusted shut.

DC Circuit Water Analogy:

The following is a DC circuit water analogy.

Slinky Analogy for P- and S- Waves

Here is an example of P and S waves using a slinky. Please click on the video to watch.

Here is an example of an extended analogy-

Procedure for Teaching with Analogies

1.Introduce the target concept

2.Remind students what they already know about the analog/base concept

3.Identify relevant similar features of the target and analog/base analogy

4.Connect (map) the similar features of the target to the analog/base

5.Indicate where the analogy breaks down!

6.Draw conclusions about the target

Glynn (2007)

Lab Activities through Analogies:

  • Analogy Labs may be used when:
    • Actual lab equipment is too expensive or not available
    • Cost of supplies is prohibitive
    • The actual lab presents specific safety hazards
    • The actual lab may be “out-of-season” or require too long
    • The analogy lab better illustrates the underlying concept/desired learning than does the actual lab
    • The actual lab involves ethical concerns
Click here to view our Simulated Labs!