What Is a Lab Section?
A lab section is a scheduled class period in which students carry out experiments, practical exercises or hands-on projects, usually in a laboratory or studio. Lab sections are most common in science, engineering and health courses, and they pair with a lecture that covers the theory. Computer science, language and art courses may also have labs, using computers, language software or studio space.
How a lab works
At the start, the instructor or teaching assistant explains the objectives and safety rules. You work individually or in small groups to follow a procedure, collect data and record observations. After the lab you analyze results and usually write a report, or complete questions, which are graded.
Labs may be one to three hours long and meet weekly. Some are separate courses with their own credit, such as a one-credit chemistry lab, and some are bundled into a four-credit lecture and lab course. Corequisite rules often require you to enroll in both lecture and lab together.
Preparing for lab
- Read the procedure in advance, and understand the aim.
- Complete pre-lab questions or quizzes.
- Review the relevant theory.
- Bring a lab notebook, pen, calculator and required safety equipment such as goggles.
- Wear suitable clothing, typically closed shoes and long pants, and tie back long hair.
Doing well
Record data carefully and honestly. Keep your notebook neat, include units and note unexpected observations. Work well with your partners, and ask the instructor if you are unsure about a step. When writing reports, follow the required format, explain your results and discuss sources of error.
Safety and integrity
Follow all safety instructions, since labs may involve chemicals, equipment or biological materials. Do not alter or invent data, because falsifying results is academic misconduct, even when an experiment fails.
Related terms
See corequisite, lecture, recitation section, practicum and teaching assistant.
Frequently asked questions
Do I get a separate grade for the lab?
Sometimes. In some courses the lab is a separate course with its own grade and credit, and in others it is part of the lecture grade. The catalog and syllabus explain which.
What should I do before a lab?
Read the procedure, review related lecture material, complete any pre-lab questions and bring required items such as a notebook and safety gear.
What if I miss a lab?
Many labs cannot be repeated easily because of equipment and scheduling. Contact the instructor immediately to ask about a make-up, and keep documentation if you were ill.