Supervised Learning

Abstract

Synonyms Experiment; Experiential education; Hands-on learn-ing; Practical learning Definition Laboratory learning is learning that takes place in a space where students can observe, practice, and experiment with objects, materials, phenomena, and ideas either individually or in groups. This learning is not confined within a physical laboratory space, but can also occur in various forms of space such as the e-learning management system and computer-simulated virtual laboratories. Within the laboratory, learning may occur in many ways, often through observing a case or phenomena, performing hands-on practical trainings, or conducting experiments. The primary aim of arranging laboratory learning for students is to develop the prac-tical competence often within their area of specializa-tion. Laboratory learning provides opportunities for students to relate and reinforce the theoretical concepts taught in class. It also targets a range of learning out-comes including experiential learning process that cannot be developed explicitly through lectures and tutorials. Students learn by doing, and then drawing meaning and understanding from these experiences. Contrary to lectures where students are often only passive participants, laboratory learning allows students to be actively engaged in their learning. The importance of direct experience with objects, materials, and phenomena is that this allows students to build true understanding that is functional and develop the ability to inquire actively. Effective laboratory sessions can achieve many desirable outcomes, including increasing students' interests in their academic discipline, discouraging rote learning, and motivating students to participate in the process of investigation and inquiry, thereby leading to the development of higher-level cognitive skills. Most laboratory learning is assessed as formative assessment. For the usual settings such as conducting experiments, students are normally given the experi-mental objective, design and procedures, and are asked to carry out the experiment by following the given instructions carefully. Depending on the task, they may be asked to work individually or in groups. During the laboratory session, teachers and demonstrators N. Seel (ed.), Encyclopedia of the Sciences of Learning, DOI 10.1007/978-1-4419-1428-6, # Springer Science+Business Media, LLC 2012 would offer assistance and support to the students, providing feedback and suggestions. The objectives of the e…