Theme
4BB Teaching tools
Title
Introducing Virtual Microscopy for Undergraduate Students in Slovenia
Background
In histology curriculum we currently have traditional microscopy (TM) with glass slides (GS) available for teaching purposes. We decided to perform a pilot survey on potential implementation of virtual microscopy (VM) with virtual slides (VS). Peer tutors (PT) were asked to participate in evaluation of VM versus TM. Our research questions were: Is there statistically significant difference in times needed to locate a structure on GS versus VS? What is PT perception of VM?
Summary of Work
We digitalized ten GS with Aperio ScanScope CS slide scanner to use them as VS. 25 PT were asked to locate the same three structures on each of the GS and their respective VS. Time needed to locate these structures was measured and a short questionnaire was given at the end.
Summary of Results
One sample t-test shows a statistically significant difference (p<0.01) in mean time to locate a structure on GS (23.0s; SD=5.65) versus VS (12.5s; SD=2.04). In written commentaries (n=23) PT reported they would prefer a combination of TM with VM in practical sessions.
Conclusion
PT considered VM as easy to use despite having no prior exposure to VM. Time they needed to locate a structure on VS was significantly shorter.
Take-home Messages
We foresee successful implementation of VM in combination with TM in the Histology curriculum.
