INTERACTIVE HISTOPATHOLOGY TUTORIALS USING WEBSLIDES

Judith F. Aronson and Annette Ayala*, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, 77555, U.S.A.

PURPOSE: We developed virtual microscopy-based self-study tutorials to complement small group pathology laboratory teaching of general pathology topics in a core course of our Integrated Medical Curriculum (Pathobiology and Host Defenses).

METHODS: Topics covered in three web-based tutorials included cell injury, inflammation, neoplasia, and hemodynamics. Development of tutorials was achieved by combining several technologies: Dreamweaver for web development, WebSlide Browser for slide annotation, ActiveX and Java to embed slides into web pages. The web-based format allowed explanatory text and the virtual slide to be viewed concurrently. Multiple choice style self-assessment questions probed students’ ability to identify structures, and to correlate morphologic information with concepts in disease mechanisms. Data were collected from server logs to indicate frequency of WebSlide access during the course. Brief surveys were completed by students on a voluntary basis.

RESULTS: WebSlide tutorials were rated very good or excellent by nearly 70% of students. Students particularly liked the fact that the tutorials were self-paced, easily accessible from off campus sites, and offered opportunities for self-assessment. Students frequently commented on the ease of navigation and the “realistic” microscope-like action of the WebSlides. Students valued these exercises as supplements to, but not replacements of, small group laboratory sessions. Students suggested that tutorials could be improved by incorporating more clinical vignettes/correlations.

CONCLUSION/FUTURE DIRECTIONS: Virtual microscopy offer powerful opportunities to create self-study tutorials that engage students in the study of histopathology and provide opportunities for integrating morphology concepts with other information such as pathophysiology, pathogenesis, and clinical diagnosis.