SimBio vs Virtual Genetics Lab II
SimBio
simbio.comVirtual Genetics Lab II
vgl.umb.eduSide by side
| Figure | SimBio | Virtual Genetics Lab II |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | — | Free |
| Free plan | — | Yes |
| Free trial | Yes | — |
| Open source | — | — |
| Web | Yes | Yes |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | Yes |
| Linux | — | Yes |
| Plans published | 4 | 1 |
| Spec score · Biology Learning Software | 7.7 (#12) | 7.3 (#18) |
| Support | SimBio says technical support specialists are available seven days a week for the SimUText system. | The download page directs installation questions, troubleshooting requests, and bug reports to Brian White by email. |
Plans
SimBio
- Virtual Labs (workbook and tutorial-style)$7.50, paid once
- Interactive Chapters$11.50, paid once
- Unlimited Labs$49, paid once
- SimBio Unlimited (chapters and/or labs)$89, paid once
In their own words
Virtual Genetics Lab II
Virtual Genetics Lab II (VGLII) is a free simulation for students exploring how traits are inherited. Students cross hypothetical creatures and examine offspring, using problems that cover one to three genes. Traits can be autosomal or sex-linked, with simple dominance, co-dominance, or incomplete dominance; instructors can restrict which models are available. Model Builder lets students enter and save genetic models, and instructors can compare responses with correct answers for grading. Version 3 includes chi-squared calculations in the Summary Chart, epistasis and complementation models, and Super Crosses of up to 2,000 offspring. Desktop downloads are listed for Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux/UNIX, and the download page says VGLII requires Java 7 or higher. The maker also describes jsVGL, a browser-based version that does not use Java and can load and save work. The maker says VGLII will no longer be supported, while support will continue for jsVGL. Some macOS versions may show an error about loading the Java Runtime Environment; a workaround uses the app's VGLII.jar file.