Online Inquiry-Based Learning in Biology

Abstract

A number of experimental studies have been conducted to explore the relationship between inquiry-based learning and the use of online experiments carried out remotely or virtually. Researchers have studied the effect of these techniques in STEM-centered modules (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) in recent years, as a way to better integrate educational technology to the school context, as well as providing the students with high-quality education. Within this scenario, a biology lecture on nervous impulses was presented following (1) the construction of an inquiry-based online course, as well as inquiry cycle, from which students had at their disposal a series of steps to research the subject, including testing practices through virtual laboratories; (2) application of the educational tool in biology classes; (3) identification the students' progression regarding the understanding of the content explored in the research phases and their perception regarding their learning and usefulness of the educational tool.