New Scenarios and Trends in Nontraditional Laboratories From 2000 to 2020

2025-01-24

IEEE Transactions on Learning Technologies

AI Summary

This study investigates the evolutionary mechanisms and pedagogical transformations of non-traditional experimental platforms in STEM education from 2000 to 2020. Employing a mixed-methods approach integrating bibliometric analysis and topic modeling, it systematically maps the development trajectory across 3,726 publications from 20 countries, contextualized with ICT historical milestones and national educational technology policy documents. The study introduces, for the first time, a scenario-based classification framework that rigorously delineates conceptual boundaries and synergistic relationships among virtual, remote, DIY, and hybrid laboratory platforms, identifying five dominant instructional scenarios. Beyond offering a comprehensive, longitudinal synthesis of two decades of innovation, the research yields a transferable platform selection guideline and an integrative implementation roadmap. These contributions advance theoretical understanding of platform evolution and provide actionable, adaptable frameworks for diversifying and enhancing STEM laboratory instruction.

Technology Category

• Intelligent Robots: Other Foundations and Applications
• Application Domains: Natural Sciences
• Machine Learning: Life-Long and Continual Learning

Application Category

• Systems and Infrastructure for Web, Mobile and WoT: Experiences and lessons learnt from Web-based algorithms and system deployments
• Web Mining and Content Analysis: Models for Web evolution
• Economics, Online Markets and Human Computation: Economics and fairness of platforms and recommendation systems

Abstract

For educational institutions in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) areas, the provision of practical learning scenarios is, traditionally, a major concern. In the 21st century, the explosion of information and communication technology (ICTs), as well as the universalization of low-cost hardware, has allowed the proliferation of technical solutions for any field, in the case of experimentation, encouraging the emergence and proliferation of nontraditional experimentation platforms. This movement has resulted in enriched practical environments, with wider adaptability for both students and teachers. In this article, the evolution of scholar production has been analyzed at the global level from 2000 to 2020. Current and emerging experimentation scenarios have been identified, specifying the scope and boundaries between them.

Problem

• STEM education
• Experimental teaching methods
• Technological influence

Innovation

• STEM education
• experimental platforms
• technological advancements