A remote lab without manipulation is effectively just a video conferencing suite. Many businesses have video conferencing equipment and there is the possibility of people in business using the equipment to deliver a guest lecture or demonstration. Remote laboratory with manipulation Remote manipulation of laboratory equipment is a potentially large area for close collaboration between higher education and industry. If the same equipment is used for higher education and business training then a remote laboratory could be developed to serve the two, with the development and running costs being shared. Another area for potential collaboration is renting equipment time from industry.
Some industries have expensive test equipment that is under-utilised.
A remote interface could be developed for the equipment to create a remote laboratory. Universities can then rent time on the equipment. Single laboratories are only able to meet rather limited and specific learning goals. There is a great deal of scope for making complete modules available to business via the shared virtual learning environment. For example, a management department might offer modules on business information technology and accounting, a business studies department might offer business law.