A review of web-based application of online learning in pathology and laboratory medicine

Web-based learning applications can support health sciences education, including knowledge acquisition in pathology and laboratory medicine. Websites can be developed to provide learning content, assessments, and products supporting pathology education. In this paper, we review informatics principles, practices, and procedures involved with educational website development in the context of existing websites and published studies of educational website usage outcomes, including that of the authors. We provide an overview with analysis of potential results of usage to inform how such websites may be used, and to guide further development. We discuss the value of educational websites for individual users, educational institutions, and professional organizations. Educational websites may offer assessments that are formative, for learning itself, as practice, preparation, and self-assessment. Open access websites have the advantage of worldwide availability 24/7, particularly aiding persons in low resource settings. Commercial offerings for educational support in formal curricula are beyond the scope of this review. This review is intended to guide those interested in website development to support non-commercial educational purposes for users seeking to improve their knowledge and diagnostic skills supporting careers in pathology.