Implementation of Biotechnology Applied to Medicine Course Using Virtual Laboratories: Perceptions and Attitudes of Students

The rapid evolution of biotechnology across various sectors, including agriculture, industry, and medicine, has profoundly transformed our comprehension of the world. Virtual laboratories (VLs) provide an immersive learning experience that can enhance future generations' understanding of biotechnology's medical applications. This study investigated the impact of incorporating VLs into a short course on biotechnology applied to medicine on the attitudes and perceptions of third-year medical students (n = 210). A validated questionnaire was employed to assess their perspectives, attitudes, and experience with virtual laboratory platforms before and after the course. The findings revealed a significant positive change in 7/38 questionnaire items (p < 0.05), indicating that the VL experience modified perceptions about biotechnology. This study emphasizes the importance of exploring innovative teaching methods for biotechnology and highlights the advantages of VL in educating future physicians. The primary concerns of the students were the misuse of personal genetic information and biotechnological applications involving animal modification. Overall, the students had a favorable experience using the virtual laboratory platforms. These findings collectively suggest that VL can positively influence perceptions and attitudes toward biotechnology among healthcare professionals.