Distance education general biology lecture courses are well established, but a laboratory component is typically offered only as a virtual format or as a regular section on-campus. We have developed a new laboratory general biology course for non-science majors that accompanies the distance lecture and is completed in an off-campus, home setting. Lab units are based on units completed in on-campus labs, but include some activities that can be difficult to do on-campus. The new course is hands-on and has few internet-based activities. Exercises emphasize biological principles but are safe in a household setting. Students are mailed kits that contain basic materials and a manual to complete the activities, although some supplies must be obtained by the student. Lab units include Science as a Process, Ecology, Nutrition, DNA, Circulation/ Transport, Photosynthesis/ Respiration, Enzymes, and Genetics. Students are graded based on lab reports, on-line quizzes, and photographs that they submit of their results. This lab provides non-traditional students with an opportunity to complete University requirements in a setting that does not require them to travel to campus.

Key words: distance education, general biology, laboratory