Development and Evaluation of a Free-to-Use 3D Mobile Application for a Virtual Chemistry Laboratory

In most chemistry curriculum, students attend practical trainings in physical laboratories to reinforce their theoretical knowledge. However, the availability of these facilities can be limited or nonexistent. In such instances, digital tools become much more useful as a substitute and auxiliary practice avenue. The authors organically developed Virtua Chem Sim, a free-to-use 3D mobile game application (app) that enables students to continue learning practical concepts outside the classroom. Here, we report on the design, development, and receptibility of Virtua Chem Sim, a mobile app that offers two basic chemistry experiments: acid-base titration and litmus paper test. This app utilizes audio and visual instructions, game-based techniques, an introductory experiment explanation, and a quiz section to engage students. Virtua Chem Sim was implemented for 61 high school students in grades 9 and 10 who were enrolled in chemistry. Pre- and post-tests were administered before and after using Virtua Chem Sim to assess their understanding of the two experimental concepts. Analysis of the data reveals a statistically significant improvement (p-value < 0.01) in their performance after using Virtua Chem Sim. A student’s perception survey was also administered after using Virtua Chem Sim, and the majority of the students found Virtua Chem Sim to be an engaging and helpful tool for building their confidence in performing chemistry experiments in real laboratory settings.