A Web-Based Experimental Biochemistry Virtual Laboratory for Science and Engineering Education

In today’s education system, interactive web-based learning plays a vital role in delivering both basic and advanced course content. This approach enhances the learning system in science and engineering education, enabling it to deliver educational materials efficiently, and cost-effectively. Laboratories play an essential role in education by bridging theoretical knowledge with practical learning. A significant challenge in bioscience and biotechnology disciplines, is the limited access to modern laboratory instruments and resources, which restricts hands-on learning opportunities. This paper presents Experimental Biochemistry Virtual Laboratory (EBVL), a web-based virtual laboratory developed using open-source technologies such as HTML5, CSS3, and JavaScript, which addresses these issues. EBVL is designed to support educators and students in bioscience and biotechnology disciplines, offering simulation-based experiments that enhance biochemistry education. This paper presents four experiments: polymerase chain reaction, gel electrophoresis, isothermal titration, and surface plasmon resonance. Each experiment includes theoretical content, step-by-step procedures, an interactive web-based simulation for conducting the experiments, and self-assessment evaluations. Additionally, several other experiments are also available and can be accessed through EBVL. The goal of this virtual laboratory is to support educational institutions that lack sufficient teaching resources and laboratory equipment thereby providing more equitable access to high-quality education and practical learning opportunities.