Lab Simulations: Can They Replace Real Labs?

[Thrice]

I'm not a chem guy so I thought I'd ask here. To what extent can the labs be replaced with simulations? Computers have come a long way & nothing's changed so I figure I must be missing something.

 

[chemisttree]

Swallow the red pill and find out...

 

[symbolipoint]

The simulations are a cheap way to convey information or knowledge;
the laboratory exercises are needed for meaningful instruction. You cannot develop through simulations - you NEED the practical instructional experiences.

 

[gravenewworld]

You can't exchange lab experience for a simulation . I doubt a computer would have ever figured out that if you scratch the side of your glass vessel with a spatula it will help crystalize your product out much faster than just letting it sit there.

A lot of lab work in chemistry is more than just science, it actually is an art.

 

[Thrice]

The simulations are a cheap way to convey information or knowledge;
the laboratory exercises are needed for meaningful instruction. You cannot develop through simulations - you NEED the practical instructional experiences.

I don't really doubt it; I'm just trying to understand why. Would more sophisticated simulations satisfy Gravenewworld? Do I have to get into chemistry to understand it?