The development of a remote laboratory for distance learning and its impact on student learning

Currently, there is an increase drive in the development of remote laboratories to compliment and sometimes replace physical and virtual laboratories. This drive is fuelled by the impact on the pedagogy of distance learning caused by the rapid advancements in information and communication technologies, especially the internet. In this paper we outline the systematic approach used in the development of the Photovoltaic Remote Laboratory at Loughborough University, highlighting challenges and successes. We also evaluate the impact the remote lab has on student learning to contribute to the growing debate