Labster Logo - A white open book "L" and the word Labster on a blue background

For this post, I will be exploring the VR platform of Labster. I signed up for a free 30 day trial for educators. This resource is located at Labster.com. Labster is a virtual laboratory. This simulation gives students the opportunity to try and experiment with various lab equipment, some of which is harder for smaller schools to acquire and become familiar with the equipment. This is a great addition to virtual classrooms though it can be just as great for in person learning. Some of the key features listed on the Labster website include interactive experiences, real-life scenarios, teacher dashboard, embedded quizzes, and supplemental resources. There are over 250 simulations developed for high school and university students. The cost of this service starts at around $79.00 per student.  

Video link for a promotion video about Labster

The Labster corporation has a number of resources for teachers including podcasts, webinars, and some very helpful guides. This VR laboratory has many applications. Students can interact in a lab setting and perform experiments that would otherwise be too dangerous for students to try. Students can interact with equipment and material that would otherwise be cost prohibitive. Students can explore various careers in science and begin to explore other career opportunities. Students can also explore lab situations outside normal school hours and during virtual learning.

 

Dash by Wonder Workshop

 

Image of a blue robot. The robot is shaped with a trianglar base of three circle with an 

additional circle on top contain the eye of the robot.

    Dash is a coding robot that can teach coding. Dash is a robot made by Wonder Workshop. The robot responds to voice commands or to downloadable apps. Sequences, loops, conditions, and events are all items' children can explore as they affect Dash in real life. Dash utilizes block programming with sensors that allow it to interact with the users. There are additional accessories that extend the usefulness of Dash as well as the learning possibilities. There are a number of lesson plans available that are also cross curricular.

    Incorporating Dash into any makerspace will benefit all users. Makerspaces can foster learning through play, increase peer to peer interactions, create opportunities for community involvement, and develop students who create rather than consume. An article in the Digital Shift stated something that stuck with me. “Incorporating Maker spaces into library service can have a life-altering impact” (Briton, para. 7) Maker spaces are not necessary, but they are great additions to any library.  Tim Slaven has a pretty good blog wih many tips and ideas for using Dash with your own children or classtoom. Teach Mama is another good blog that had some good posts about Dash including some of her own personal experiences with her own children.

Christine Donaldson

References

Britton, L. (2012, October 1). The makings of makerspaces, Part 1: Space for creation, not just consumption. School Library Journal. http://www.thedigitalshift.com/2012/10/public-services/the-makings-of-maker-spaces-part-1-space-for-creation-not-just-consumption/