Remote experiment

A remote experiment is a real experiment with real laboratory instruments and equipment that can be controlled by a computer through the internet.^[1][2] One or more remote experiments are accessible in remote laboratory.^{[3] [4]}

Remotely controlled experiments have become a widespread tool for teaching physics at the university level of education. When executing remote experiments the remote users can change system parameters, observe results in graphical form and/or by video transmission from webcam, and download the experimental results. Sometimes a booking system is available for remote experiments that allows the users to book time for access of remote experiment in advance.^[5] User operates remote experiment via graphical user interface. Remote experiments are positively evaluated by the learners.^[6]

Advantages of remote experiments

When compared to simulations in virtual laboratories and to experiments in the traditional laboratories, remotely controlled experiments have following advantages:

• remote experiments can be carried out from anywhere in the world;
• no time restriction since experiments are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week;
• overcoming problems with limited laboratory capacity for numerous students;^[7]
• safe and secure operation of equipment without danger of user's injury;
• remote experiments can be shared between education institutions as for example in labshare initiative.

Users of remote experiments

Remote experiments are a powerful technology which can be implemented in distance education to provide the learner hands-on experience. Remote experiments can be especially valuable for some groups of users:

• learners with physical disabilities, who cannot intend traditional laboratory exercises;
• part-time students, who cannot intend traditional laboratory exercises;
• learners who are undergoing continued education (Lifelong learning) and have to integrate learning activities into their everyday schedule.