Transition to Virtual Microscopy in Medical Undergraduate Pathology Education: First Experience of Turkey in Dokuz Eylül University Hospital.

Kutsal Yorukoglu,Cagnur Ulukus,Ozgul Sagol,Burcin Tuna,Tulay Canda,Merih Guray Durak,Erdener Ozer,Berna Musal,Banu Lebe

doi:10.5146/tjpath.2015.01329

Abstract

Pathology education includes an important visual part supporting a wide range of theoretical knowledge. However, the use of traditional microscopes in pathology education has declined over the last decade and there is a lack of interest for microscopy. Virtual microscopy, which was first described in 1985 and has experienced a revolution since 2000, is an alternative technique to conventional microscopy, in which microscopic slides are scanned to form digital images and stored in the web. The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of virtual microscopy in practical pathology sessions and its effects on our students and undergraduate education at our faculty. Second and third year medical students who were used to conventional microscopes were included in the study. The practical sessions were carried out via virtual slides and the effect of the new technique was investigated by a scale at the end of each session. Academic staff from the pathology department joined sessions to promote discussion and respond to questions. Student ratings were analysed statistically. The evaluation of the ratings showed that the students were easily adapted to the use of virtual microscopy. They found it user-friendly and thought that the opportunity of viewing slides at home was advantageous. Collaboration between students and interactive discussions was also improved with this technique. It was concluded that the use of virtual microscopy could contribute to the pathology education of our students.

Highlights

Pathology education, which is a highly visual subject, is partly based on histological examination of diseased tissues
The evaluation of the ratings showed that the students were adapted to the use of virtual microscopy
It was concluded that the use of virtual microscopy could contribute to the pathology education of our students

Summary

Introduction

Pathology education, which is a highly visual subject, is partly based on histological examination of diseased tissues. This practical part is important because it helps students understand the basic concepts as well as the mechanisms of diseases. Some recent studies have demonstrated a decrease in the use of traditional microscopes in medical schools, mainly as a result of current developments in the curriculum as well as some disadvantages of the technique itself [4]. Adapting the laboratory to evolving technology and increasing the number of medical school students is costly. The use of the microscopes is often limited to the working hours of the faculty, requiring the students to be physically at school for self study [5]

Results

Discussion

Conclusion