Remote Learning Facilitated by MyScope Explore.

Area of Science:

• Microscopy and Imaging
• Zoology and Entomology
• Educational Technology

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated adaptations in higher education, particularly for practical laboratory courses.
• Traditional undergraduate microscopy workshops require in-person access to specialized facilities like scanning electron microscopes (SEM).
• The University of Newcastle's annual microscopy workshop faced disruption due to facility closures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and implement a remote learning undergraduate workshop for microscopy education.
• To adapt the annual Maratus (Peacock) spider SEM imaging workshop for virtual delivery.
• To provide a successful and replicable model for remote microscopy teaching.

Main Methods:

• Developed a remote learning module integrating virtual SEM imaging of Maratus spiders using the MyScope Explore environment.
• Included two core components: virtual imaging of spider scales and a live, remote SEM session via Zoom.
• Adapted the workshop for 44 undergraduate students at the University of Newcastle.

Main Results:

• The virtual undergraduate microscopy workshop was successfully delivered, maintaining educational continuity.
• Students engaged with both virtual and live remote SEM imaging components.
• The program demonstrated high success rates and positive reception.

Conclusions:

• Remote learning strategies, including virtual SEM, can effectively replace in-person practical sessions.
• The developed virtual workshop platform is a viable and scalable solution for future remote microscopy education.
• This approach ensures continued learning opportunities despite physical facility limitations.