Assessing Prior Knowledge and Needs Assessment for Virtual Laboratorium Development

Abstract

The University of Jember as a centre for biotechnology research in Indonesia also has the responsibility of developing biotechnology research results for the public. The urgency in fostering public understanding of biotechnology needs attention. Based on the results of a survey conducted, it shows that 75% of Jember University students do not understand biotechnology and the superior biotechnology products of the University of Jember. One way of developing this biotechnology information to the public is through the use of learning media. The research objective was to analyze the virtual needs of biotechnology laboratories for agriculture and health. The results show that students in higher education ranks have standard knowledge of virtual laboratories. Students also need skills in developing virtual laboratories and providing laboratories in learning and practicum. This shows that the development of a virtual laboratory is required to develop effectiveness and improvement of students' skills in higher education.