Application and evaluation of teaching practical histology with the use of virtual microscopy

Abstract

Emerging digital microscopy technology and newly devel- oped scanning light microscopy systems enable histologists to transfer analog image data of entire slides into digital ones, and to provide them to students in the class with identical contents and quality [1,2]. We have recently started a major innovation of our system of practical teaching using e-learning methods of delivery of high qual- ity histology virtual slides and supporting documents [3]. We have created our own teaching environment in a computer-equipped and networked classroom dedicated to histology practical sessions. This method of teaching has been complemented with electronic in-course and final assessments of student’s theoretical and practical knowledge and skills.