Annotated virtual microscope laboratory units for teaching general and oral histology to dental students

Abstract

An integrated approach to learning laboratory concepts and skills in general medical histology has been reported previously (Heidger, et al, 2002; Harris, et al, 2001) which employs both traditional and virtual imaging of microscope slides. This methodology has been extended recently to teaching both general and oral histology to dental students. The annotated images comprising the University of Iowa's Virtual Slidebox of Histology, together with newly prepared virtual slides from our oral histology slide collection, constitute the core of required material for individual virtual laboratory study. Elective opportunities for small‐group interaction with faculty over traditional glass slides are scheduled, as well. In contrast to previous years of laboratory study that relied heavily upon labeled 35 mm slides, the expanded Virtual Slidebox (see www.path.uiowa.edu/virtualslidebox) now offers our dental students a means for individual, comprehensive laboratory study of both general and oral histology preparations. Student reception of this option has been overwhelmingly positive, scores in practical exams have risen, and the quality of the learning experience in dental histology enhanced in the view of faculty and student evaluators, alike. Our histology offerings for dental and medical students at Iowa are now closely linked with common lectures, but with distinct laboratory experiences. This has facilitated desirable cross‐collegiate interactions among students, and better appreciation for the goals and emphases of the respective professional school curricula. Supported by a grant from the National Library of Medicine to FD, and Dental and Medical Educational Development funds to MF and PH.