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Whole-Kidney Three-Dimensional Staining with CUBIC
Published on: July 18, 2022
Exploring a Kidney Pathology WhatsApp® Learning Curriculum through a Community of Inquiry Framework
Douglas R Farrell1, Layla Fattah2, Samira S Farouk1
1Barbara T. Murphy Division of Nephrology, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York NY, USA.
Kidney360
|August 13, 2026
Summary
A WhatsApp®-based renal pathology curriculum effectively supplemented nephrology training, showing high satisfaction and increased fellow confidence. This mobile learning approach offers a feasible, learner-centered educational supplement.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Nephrology Pathology
- Digital Learning
Background:
- Nephrology fellows require enhanced pathology education.
- WhatsApp® offers a potential tool for accessible medical training.
- A WhatsApp®-based curriculum was developed to supplement existing training.
Purpose of the Study:
- Assess the feasibility of a WhatsApp®-based renal pathology curriculum.
- Evaluate participant satisfaction with the novel educational approach.
- Determine the effectiveness of the mobile learning intervention on fellow confidence and knowledge.
Main Methods:
- A mixed-methods study involving 17 nephrology fellows.
- Weekly pathology image sharing with multiple-choice questions via WhatsApp®.
- Pre- and post-intervention surveys and a voluntary focus group for qualitative analysis.
Main Results:
- High engagement with weekly content observed (13/14 fellows).
- All participants reported increased confidence and satisfaction.
- Qualitative themes aligned with the Community of Inquiry framework, highlighting cognitive, social, and teaching presence.
Conclusions:
- WhatsApp®-based pathology curriculum is feasible and well-received in nephrology training.
- Mobile learning platforms can support flexible, learner-centered education.
- The intervention led to increased confidence and high participant satisfaction.
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