lifelab - learning in the digital laboratory

The internet agency xmachina (www.xmachina.de) together with well-known partners of the Biotec-region Heidelberg ('Deutsches Krebsforschungs-Zentrum Heidelberg' [DKFZ], 'Bibliographisches Institut F.A. Brockhaus' and 'IAS Interactive Media') undertook the production of the educational software for a virtual research lab.

Zope/ZMS is the CD-ROM publishing system for lifelab

The CD series "lifelab – Molekularbiologische Experimente" has just been published by the 'Bibliographisches Institut & F. A. Brockhaus AG'. "lifelab" is a realistically equipped virtual laboratory where the user may simulate each step of a process. With "lifelab" biomolecular experiments can be conducted virtually – either instead of real experiments or for preparation and postprocessing purposes. Beside a three-dimensional laboratory the software contains a well-assorted specialised library and a personal area for gathering own observations and experimental data, other sources and more. The product offers the learners a special tool for preparing lessons: individual presentations or work sheets can be generated.

The Zope/ZMS application runs as stand-alone variant on CD-ROM and beyond it also can work as a network-capable multi-place version. Additionally, a »Cafeteria« is provided where users can communicate and collaborate with features like shared data files and discussion forums. Furthermore learning contents may be defined here and more users can be added.