About VUMIE

A better online microbiology simulation

VUMIE is a “flight simulator” for the Microbiology lab, a simulation that requires the same heads-on, hands-on effort students must master in the wetlab.  It provides meaningful practice for microbiology students, tests student proficiencies in micro lab skills and knowledge, and is a basic component of many online and hybrid microbiology labs taught worldwide.

Screenshot from VUMIE microbiology lab simulation

VUMIE Online is our latest version of the software. It features many improvements over VUMIE 2012, including:

  • No installation of software required
  • Works with any web-enabled device… computer, Chromebook®, or tablet
  • Integrated lessons, worksheets and quizzes
A screenshot of a worksheet in VUMIE Online lab simulation

Product features

  • Over 120 possible bacteria identified using more than 50 common biochemical tests found in microbiology labs.
  • No need for a lab manual. All resources for delivering the VUMIE Online lab experience are included in the online package.
  • Coverage of important topics of basic aseptic technique and microbiology, identification of unknown bacteria, medical/clinical microbiology, and other topics from wet lab microbiology courses. It even includes activities like “Save the Patient“, “Creating Scientific Posters“, “Rapid ID Systems for Bacterial ID”.  There’s even instructions on how to set up a Fantasy Microbiology League. See our list of Activities.
  • Activities include web-based excursions away from VUMIE. Scavenger Hunts take you on a deep dive with some important concepts in microbiology and health.
  • Many activity assignments are auto-graded and added to the gradebook.
  • Content will be added as new activities are completed, and become instantly available to all users.
  • Extensive video-based tutorials for basic lab skills. You can take a peek here.
  • Extensive Reference Library covering topics central to the course and simulation. See what we’ve got for you.
  • Integrated “Admin Console” feature allows instructors to customize student assignments, check on their work, review their lab reports, and keep track of grades.
  • Simulation, activities, extensive Help files, and instructor controls – all for about half the cost of a microbiology lab manual.
  • A video preview of the software is available here.
  • A video with information about the simulation is available here.

Frequently Asked Questions

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