Using the Virtual Lab
The lab interface is divided into two areas: the interactive lab window on the left and the lab notebook on the right. When you start a new section of the lab, read the text in the notebook first to get some background, then follow the prompts in the lab window to go through the activities.
In the lab window, you will be prompted by text in the tip window (the gray rectangle at the bottom of the lab window). The tip window will tell you what to do. As you progress, the lab notebook window will automatically update with information about the current step.
If you make a mistake scoring the fish, you can press "Prev" in the lab window. That will take you back to the previous specimen. Note: Clicking on the Back option in your browser will not reset the score.
At the end of each section of the virtual lab you will be prompted to go to the next section by a blue text box in the lab window. The easiest way to navigate the lab is to follow those prompts in the blue text boxes. However, you can also navigate the lab by clicking on the links under the lab window (e.g., Tutorial 1 or Experiment 2).
The Reference tab has definitions for the bolded terms you will find throughout the lab, as well as references and links to other resources. The Progress tab summarizes everything you have done in the lab, including all the data you collected and quiz questions and answers. You can click on these tabs anytime; clicking on the Notebook tab will take you back to the instructions for the tutorial or experiment.
Supported Desktop Web Browsers
The Stickleback Evolution Lab has been developed using HTML5. The following browsers are supported and recommended. For the virtual lab to work properly, be sure that JavaScript and cookies are enabled and your pop-up blocker is disabled. Browser plug-ins are not required to use this virtual lab.
Mobile Devices
The Stickleback Evolution Lab is best viewed on tablet-sized mobile devices (such as the iPad) and in landscape mode (horizontal). While the lab works on smaller mobile devices such as the iPhone and iPod touch, it is not recommended due to their small screens. Also, screen zooming is not fully supported on these devices.
To create a shortcut to the virtual lab on your Apple device, tap the Send button at the top of your browser and select "Add to Home Screen." This will create an icon on your home screen so you can quickly access the virtual lab.
Printing and PDF Files
Printing and printing to PDF are supported in this virtual lab. The Progress tab includes a print button so that you can document your lab progress and quiz results. To print other parts of the lab, including your data tables and graphs, be sure to turn on your browser's "Print background colors and images" option (wording may vary) from the print dialog box or print settings.
Some browsers support printing to PDF files. Select the "Save as PDF" option (wording may vary) from your browser's print dialog box and select a location to save it to your computer. You may then email and/or print the saved PDF file.
Saving Your Progress Manually
For instructions on how to manually save your progress in the lab, please refer to the information under the "Save/Resume" tab.
Technical Support
For technical support, please complete this form.
To reset the virtual lab and all saved user data, click here.
Version 1.3
Updated on 01/31/22