Molecular Workbench is a free tool for designing and conducting computational experiments across science. Its interactive learning environment supports science inquiry, and its authoring system lets instructional designers create and publish curriculum materials built around models and simulations. Users can customize existing simulations or make their own, with topics such as gas laws, fluid mechanics, chemical reactions, genetics, and quantum phenomena. Activities can include assessments, collect student data, monitor learning, and provide teacher feedback. Simulations can also be embedded in blogs, wikis, or web pages. The browser edition uses HTML5, while an offline version is available but cannot access the latest simulations or collect student data. Downloads are listed for Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux and require Java Runtime Environment 1.5 or later. The maker notes that the software needs considerable computing power and may take time to launch while the Java virtual machine starts. Molecular Workbench is developed and maintained by the Concord Consortium.
Who it is for
Molecular Workbench suits science educators and instructional designers who want to create or adapt simulation-based learning activities. Its assessment and student-data features may suit teachers monitoring learning.
What is good
- Free and open-source.
- Users can customize or create simulations.
- Activities can include embedded assessments.
- Simulations can be embedded in web pages.
- Browser edition uses HTML5.
What to know first
- Offline version cannot access the latest simulations.
- Offline version cannot collect student data.
- Downloads require Java Runtime Environment 1.5 or later.
- Maker says it needs considerable computing power.
Verdict
Molecular Workbench combines science simulations with tools for curriculum authoring and learning activities. Users should note the offline version’s limits and the stated computing and Java requirements for downloads.
Molecular Workbench plans and pricing
All plansCompared on chemistry simulation software
- Free plan
- Yes
