The positive impact of virtual microscopy on histopathology education: a comparative, student-centered study

Because of the recent pandemic, new teaching methods have been trialed, even in traditional disciplines such as histopathology that typically involve extensive hands-on laboratory work. In this study, we investigated the effects of three different learning modalities in histopathology teaching: optical microscopy, in-class virtual microscopy (VM), and online VM lectures. We examined relational aspects, didactic effectiveness, and satisfaction in these learning settings, both during class time and in private study, outside the dedicated spaces and hours of the university. The comparative design of the study, based on a set of surveys taken during the course and at its end, resulted in valuable methodological insights and a clear picture of the students' needs. These were characterized both by high technological expectations and by a desire for a stimulating social environment. Our results show that the implementation of new learning tools has a positive impact on teaching, and not only at the didactic level. It also positively affects the way the university is experienced by the students, it facilitates their desired socializing lifestyles, and it exposes them, as a new generation of professionals, to the latest technologies used by specialty physicians.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Our study examines the didactical impact and perceived value of distance learning and virtual microscopy (VM) teaching among students in histopathology laboratories and at home. To our knowledge, this is the first study investigating such issues in the postpandemic setting. These novel teaching methods complement the innovative technologies currently used in diagnostic medicine.