Integrating histology and histopathology teaching in practical classes using virtual slides.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Histopathology
• Anatomy

Background:

• Curriculum reform in medical programs necessitates innovative teaching methods.
• Traditional microscopy teaching can be time-consuming and resource-intensive.

Purpose of the Study:

• To revise and implement a new approach for teaching microscopic anatomy and pathology.
• To integrate histology and histopathology using virtual slide technology.
• To evaluate student reception and learning outcomes of the new teaching method.

Main Methods:

• Implemented scenario-based learning with vertically and horizontally integrated classes.
• Utilized virtual slides for practical classes, simulating conventional microscopy.
• Integrated normal (histology) and abnormal (histopathology) tissue examination.
• Incorporated worksheets with learning objectives and clinical cases.
• Facilitated discussions with anatomy and pathology academic staff.

Main Results:

• Students strongly supported the integrated teaching approach.
• The virtual slide method allowed efficient coverage of 5-8 slides per 2-hour class.
• Students demonstrated initiative in exploring histological features and relating them to clinical manifestations.

Conclusions:

• The developed approach effectively teaches morphology, minimizing negative impacts of curriculum reform.
• Virtual slides enhance the learning of microscopic anatomy and pathology, making it meaningful and engaging.
• This integrated method supports student understanding of disease processes and their clinical relevance.