The Assessment of an Online Microscopic Anatomy Laboratory Course

Abstract

We have developed a senior level histology course with a laboratory component which is offered fully online. This course utilizes virtual microscopy and synchronous videoconferencing software technologies to allow a synchronous lecture and laboratory course. This online course is being compared to a face to face (F2F) course covering the same content. Initial data suggest that there is no significant difference between these methods for overall student outcomes. Closer examination of the components will determine if there is any difference in outcomes for the lab portion of the course. In addition, attendance levels and patterns will be examined for differences between the online and F2F groups. Demographic data collected will include incoming science and math GPA which will be correlated to the overall course grade. Finally, levels of student satisfaction will be compared for the courses. Many studies have compared online to F2F courses however, few were laboratory courses and none were synchronous courses where both the lectures and the laboratories were interactive. Results from this study will help to clarify any strengths or weaknesses of online laboratories. Grant Funding Source: Ontario Graduate Scholarship