Design, Implementation and Evaluation of Deusto XRL, a Reference Architecture for Extended Remote Laboratories (XRLs)

Extended Remote Laboratories (XRLs) have emerged as a potential solution to address the lack of science laboratories in educational institutions, a deficit that hinders the attainment of a Quality Education outlined in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. By integrating physical assets with Extended Reality (XR) technologies, XRLs provide an immersive remote laboratory experience. This study presents the development of Deusto XRL, a reference architecture for XRLs, and investigates User eXperience (UX) via a survey involving 150 high-school students. The participants were divided into groups and exposed to different online laboratory experiences: traditional Remote Laboratories (RLs) and XRLs. Feedback scores from the UX survey indicated that the XRLs received the highest ratings, reflecting a positive UX. The results highlight the potential of XRLs to enhance the accessibility and quality of science education, enabling students to engage in immersive learning experiences despite physical laboratory limitations. Future research endeavors will focus on exploring the educational implications and learning outcomes associated with XRL technology. By further investigating the pedagogical aspects of XRLs, this study aims to uncover their potential benefits and educational value. Implementing XRLs in educational settings can revolutionize science education, providing students with interactive and engaging opportunities to deepen their understanding of scientific concepts.