Indonesian Journal of Applied Science and Technology
Vol. 7 No. 1 (2026): Edisi Januari-Juni 2026

The Effectiveness of Virtual Laboratories in Enhancing Students' Science Process Skills: A Literature Review

Fadillah Deswita Sari (University of Mataram)
Hayatun Novi Aulia (University of Mataram)
Lindawati Lindawati (University of Mataram)
Gunawan Gunawan (University of Mataram)
Nina Nisrina (University of Mataram)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Jun 2026

Abstract

Virtual laboratories have emerged as a prominent technological intervention in science education. However, a comprehensive synthesis that systematically analyzes their effectiveness across diverse science process skills (SPS) indicators and educational levels remains limited. This study addresses this gap by evaluating the effectiveness of virtual laboratories in enhancing students' SPS through a systematic literature review. Data were compiled from 16 national and international peer-reviewed articles published between 2015 and 2025. The articles were selected based on rigorous inclusion criteria regarding relevance to virtual laboratory interventions and SPS measurements. A qualitative descriptive approach utilizing thematic synthesis was employed to analyze patterns and key findings across the selected literature. The findings demonstrate that virtual laboratories consistently improve various SPS indicators, particularly observing, classifying, predicting, data interpreting, and concluding. Moreover, their efficacy is significantly maximized when integrated with inquiry-based instructional designs, such as guided inquiry and discovery learning. Beyond serving as a practical alternative, virtual laboratories offer critical flexibility, efficiency, and accessibility, functioning as an essential complement to conventional hands-on laboratories in modern science education.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

ijast

Publisher

Subject

Agriculture, Biological Sciences & Forestry Computer Science & IT Engineering Public Health Other

Description

Indonesian Journal of Applied Science and Technology (IJAST) adalah wadah publikasi ilmiah yang berfokus pada penyebarluasan hasil penelitian dan pemikiran inovatif di bidang sains terapan, teknologi, dan informasi. Jurnal ini ditujukan bagi mahasiswa, guru, dosen, praktisi, maupun peneliti untuk ...