The online Virtual Biology Laboratory (VBL) enables students to "do" science by acquiring data, performing experiments, and using that data to explain biological concepts or phenomena. Designed within a simulation format, guided activities provide step-by-step instructions, self-graded quizzes, and self-designed activities in which students can plan their procedures around an experimental question and write up their results in the form of a lab report that can be submitted for evaluation. Working online, students do not have to hassle with setting up expensive equipment and waiting for results. The 14 VBL modules are available as a set or individually on their own, and can be packaged with any Brooks/Cole Cengage Learning text.