With the rapid IT development, would virtual lab be a good substitute for real ones in engineering?

Question

Elaborate the merit and demerit of the issues

Answer 1

Based on a niece of mine who is graduating in civil engineering and who has already been involved in research and is likely to continue for an Masters degree after a period of practical experience, I'd think that this is not only possible, but is already being done. She's been working on bridge design projects and buiilding research (design and materials to withstand high winds) and I understand that a lot of her work is done using simulations and other IT lab techniques.