Virtual Laboratories and Simulators — A Step into the Future of Technical Education

On May 27, 2025, as part of the School of Pedagogical Excellence, a seminar was held on the topic: “Virtual Laboratories and Simulators as Modern Educational Technologies for Students of Technical Specialties.” The presentation was delivered by PhD, Associate Professor of the Department of Chemistry at L.N. Gumilyov ENU, L.B. Tolymbekova, who highlighted modern approaches to the digitalization of the educational process, including the use of virtual laboratories, simulators, and digital twins in the teaching of chemistry-related disciplines.

During the seminar, it was emphasized that the use of virtual laboratories and simulators has become an important element of modern education. A virtual lab enables the execution of complex experiments and reduces the time needed for various operations. Students can deviate from the predetermined course of a laboratory task, choose their own path to solve an experimental problem, and observe the outcome of their decisions. Virtual labs allow for repeated experimentation without the use of chemical reagents, saving time and effort in preparation. There's no need for a specially equipped physical lab; with advances in technology, experiments can be conducted from anywhere, including remotely. A balanced integration of digital and traditional teaching methods enhances the quality of student training, ensures safe and accessible hands-on learning, and allows educational programs to adapt to the realities of digital transformation.

The event also featured a representative from Big Dream Lab, a company specializing in the development of virtual laboratories, simulators, and VR solutions for education and industry. In her presentation, she showcased the company’s activities, highlighted key projects—including the creation of a virtual chemistry lab adapted to the curricula of Kazakhstani universities—and discussed opportunities for collaboration with educators to develop customized solutions.

During the discussion, participants expressed both the pros and cons of using such resources. However, they agreed that a blended learning approach involving digital laboratories and simulators not only increases student motivation and accessibility of practical knowledge but also significantly reduces equipment costs, ensures safety, and supports inclusive learning—especially in situations with limited access to physical lab infrastructure.