Evaluation of innovative digital microscopy and interactive team-based learning approaches in histology teaching

Abstract

Histology teaching in veterinary science and other higher education clinical programmes has traditionally relied on light microscopy in a laboratory setting. However, increasing student numbers, limited flexibility of these tools for learning outside the lab, and, most recently, the COVID-19 pandemic, are driving the search for alternative approaches to delivery and sustaining of learning resources. Improved digital technologies, increasingly available through technology-enhanced learning facilities, can help address these issues. Thus, we created a digitized, interactive library of slide-mounted tissue specimens accessible through our institutional virtual learning environment, piloted its uptake by first-year BVSc students, tested it in combination with a team-based learning/flipped classroom strategy, and compared old and new approaches by evaluating student preferences and histology examination results. Students reported greater engagement with the new resource which appeared to influence exam results positively. We identify future areas of investigation and suggest developments to these approaches to encourage adoption across curricula.