Advances in Physiology Education, Vol 273, Issue 6 24-S40, Copyright © 1997 by American Physiological Society
Laboratory exercise using "virtual rats" to teach endocrine physiology
C. M. Odenweller, C. T. Hsu, E. Sipe, J. P. Layshock, S. Varyani, R. L. Rosian and S. E. DiCarlo
Department of Physiology, Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine, Rootstown 44272, USA.
Animal experimentation is limited in many curricula due to the expense,
lack of adequate animal facilities and equipment, and limited experience of
the teachers. There are also ethical concerns dealing with the comfort and
safety of the animals. To overcome these obstacles, we developed a "dry
laboratory" using "virtual rats." The "virtual rat" eliminates the
obstacles inherent in animal experimentation, such as inadequate budgets,
as well as avoiding important animal rights issues. Furthermore, no special
materials are required for the completion of this exercise. Our goal in
developing this dry laboratory was to create an experience that would
provide students with an appreciation for the value of laboratory data
collection and analysis. Students are exposed to the challenge of animal
experimentation, experimental design, data collection, and analysis and
interpretation without the issues surrounding the use of live animals.
