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About This Simulation
Work as a pharmaceutical detective to identify the link between a new drug and a recent epidemic. Use the scientific method to define the different variables and perform a fluorescent cell assay to test the effect of the drug on the cells.
Learning Objectives
- Design an experiment and test a hypothesis
- Find abnormalities in cells
- Prepare samples and treat cell cultures
- Select the correct experimental controls to verify your hypothesis
- Understand the difference between experimental controls
About This Simulation
Lab Techniques
- Apoptosis assay
- Cell staining
- Microscope
- Pipetting
- Cell cultures
Related Standards
- No direct alignment
- Generic cell culture support
- Generic cell culture support
Learn More About This Simulation
This short, targeted simulation is adapted from the full-length “Experimental Design” simulation.
Are you ready to uncover the truth about a recent epidemic? In this simulation, as a pharmaceutical detective, you have the chance to perform experiments with human cell cultures. Make sure that you choose the correct experimental method to design a scientifically sound experiment for testing the effect of the suspicious drug.
The scientific method
Humans have always strived to explain natural phenomena. In the first mission of the experimental design simulation, you will learn how to use the scientific method to investigate phenomena, acquire new knowledge through background research. Strive to correct and integrate existing knowledge to execute an experiment that proves or disproves the hypothesis. Every tool you need to use is available in this virtual lab.
View cells under a microscope
In your next mission you have the freedom to examine slides containing cells of a healthy human and another containing the cells of a human consuming the drug under a microscope. Through this, you will be able to define your scientific question and formulate plans for the experiment and how you can provide conclusive evidence for this investigation. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes - in this virtual simulation you can repeat the experiment as many times as you want.
Experimental controls
You will notice that there are many experimental variables in your experiment. Learn how to adjust them and understand why it’s so important to use experimental controls to verify your results. These controls will let you conclude whether a suspicious compound is the reason behind the reported epidemic. You’ll get to investigate the effect of different compounds and various concentrations of the same compound.
Will you be able to set up an experiment that can prove your suspicions?
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For Science Programs Providing a Learning Advantage
North Dakota State College of Science
“They did the simulation at home, then completed the in-person lab within 30 minutes, no questions asked, and passed the quiz with flying colors.”
Lecturer in Human Physiology
University of Westminster
"I saw some of the students who clearly didn’t necessarily like sitting there reading a book discover they could turn on Labster and keep up with the rest of the class because it spoke to them.
Modesto City Schools
"Having something that's engaging for the students gives teachers that opportunity to breathe and get excited again. Because they're seeing the kids light up, they're seeing the kids engage with content."
Wenatchee Valley College
"The question always is, ‘Can we demonstrate that the students are meeting course outcomes?’ Check! We can do that.”
San José State University
"We surveyed over 400 students. More than 90% thought Labster was easy to navigate, and that it was fun, but more importantly, most of them felt confident that they could execute the labs in person. And that confidence is a big deal."
FAQs
Find answers to frequently asked questions.
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A Labster virtual lab is an interactive, multimedia assignment that students access right from their computers. Many Labster virtual labs prepare students for success in college by introducing foundational knowledge using multimedia visualizations that make it easier to understand complex concepts. Other Labster virtual labs prepare learners for careers in STEM labs by giving them realistic practice on lab techniques and procedures.
Labster’s virtual lab simulations are created by scientists and designed to maximize engagement and interactivity. Unlike watching a video or reading a textbook, Labster virtual labs are interactive. To make progress, students must think critically and solve a real-world problem. We believe that learning by doing makes STEM stick.
Yes, Labster is compatible with all major LMS (Learning Management Systems) including Blackboard, Canvas, D2L, Moodle, and many others. Students can access Labster like any other assignment. If your institution does not choose an LMS integration, students will log into Labster’s Course Manager once they have an account created. Your institution will decide which is the best access method.
Labster is available for purchase by instructors, faculty, and administrators at education institutions. Purchasing our starter package, Labster Explorer, can be done using a credit card if you are located in the USA, Canada, or Mexico. If you are outside of North America or are choosing a higher plan, please speak with a Labster sales representative. Compare plans.
Labster supports a wide range of STEM courses at the high school, college, and university level across fields in biology, chemistry, physics, and health sciences. You can identify topics for your courses by searching our Content Catalog.