The Global Online Laboratory Consortium (GOLC) Awards 2026 were presented during the International Conference on Smart Technologies & Education (STE 2026) in Brașov, Romania, celebrating innovative approaches to online laboratories and experimental learning.
The GOLC Awards, organized under the umbrella of the International Association of Online Engineering (IAOE), recognize outstanding contributions to the design, implementation, and pedagogical impact of remote, simulated, and immersive laboratory environments. The 2026 awardees once again demonstrated the breadth and innovation of the global community working at the intersection of engineering education and digital technologies.
Category: Remotely Controlled Experiments
The award for Remotely Controlled Experiments was presented to “Automatic Modular Flexible Production Line Training System” by Jakhlaqur Rahman, Indumathi V., Harisinh Parmar, and Imtiaz Madni (Engineering Institute of Technology, Australia). The system provides students with real-time access to a fully integrated industrial automation setup, combining PLC control, SCADA/HMI visualization, and remote experimentation. By enabling learners to interact with authentic industrial processes from a distance, the project bridges theoretical understanding and hands-on skill development in a highly scalable way.
The runner-up, “LabsLand Hive: Electronics Remote Laboratory”, represents a globally distributed infrastructure for remote experimentation in analog electronics. Developed through an international collaboration, the platform allows students to build and test real circuits online using physical components, moving beyond simulation toward authentic signal analysis. Its modular and extensible architecture supports shared laboratory resources across institutions worldwide, offering a sustainable model for collaborative engineering education.
Category: Simulated and Digitally Visualized Experiments
In the category Simulated and Digitally Visualized Experiments, the award was given to “Quantum Playground” by Ranjan Bala Jain, Aditya Upasani, Abhishek Vishwakarma, Yash Mahajan, and Ryan D’Souza (Vivekanand Education Society’s Institute of Technology, India). This virtual laboratory provides an interactive and structured learning environment for quantum computing, combining theoretical explanations with hands-on simulation and assessment. By making complex quantum phenomena visible and manipulable, the platform lowers barriers to entry and supports a deeper conceptual understanding of emerging technologies.
Category: Virtual and Augmented Reality Experiments
The award for Virtual and Augmented Reality Experiments was presented to “easyARguide”, a collaborative project involving Technische Hochschule Köln, HAW Hamburg, Technische Universität Darmstadt, and industry partners. The solution enables the intuitive creation of AR-based training content through a no-code interface, making immersive learning accessible for vocational education and small and medium-sized enterprises. By combining technical innovation with strong pedagogical design, the project supports knowledge transfer, reduces training barriers, and enhances the attractiveness of technical education.
Runner-up honors in this category went to “AR-Flow” by researchers from TU Dortmund University. This AR-supported learning environment for fluid mechanics allows students to explore complex flow phenomena through interactive visualization. By making otherwise invisible processes observable and manipulable, AR-Flow fosters deeper conceptual understanding and supports self-directed, inquiry-based learning.
The GOLC Awards 2026 highlight the continued advancement of online laboratories as a key component of modern engineering education. From remote access to real industrial systems, to immersive and AI-supported learning environments, the awarded projects reflect a shared commitment to innovation, accessibility, and pedagogical excellence. Congratulations to all awardees and thank you to all submitters.
More information about the GOLC initiative and future activities can be found on the IAOE website here . A call for submissions for the GOLC Awards 2027 will be announced soon, and we warmly encourage members of the community to participate and showcase their work.