Impact of team‐based virtual microscopy on student learning in Histology
Pushpa Potaliya, Shilpi Gupta Dixit, Surajit Ghatak · The FASEB Journal · 2017
Introduction Histology teaching is based on theoretical didactic stratagem followed by practical training. Conventionally used optical microscopy to accomplish practical competence is getting replaced by newer communication technologies. As little pragmatic substantiation is there regarding the impact of virtual microscopy against optical microscopy on the acquisition of histology comprehension, this study was set up at AIIMS, Jodhpur, India. Objective Provide students with a core content resource that transcends the classroom. Student feedback and the impact of a set of measures deliberated to improve an experimental group's understanding of histology. To evaluate and compare overall Histology lab averages and individual test scores to determine the effects of using virtual microscopy. Material and Method A pretest‐post test and cross‐over design was adopted. The students' reactions to the instructional measures were assessed by course evaluation data. Analysis of covariance was done to study the differential gain in knowledge at T1 and T2. Quantitative assessment of students was based on laboratory quizzes. Result Both short and long term outcome of implementing such module shall be discussed at time of conference. Data from assessment scores and evaluation surveys indicated the significance of virtual microscope in improving student performance and learning efficiency. Conclusion Access to high‐quality digitized materials and boosting prerequisite skills are insufficient to boost final competence. Instead, the solution may lie in making students externally accountable for their learning throughout their training. Support or Funding Information nil