Demonstration with Equipment

HistoWeb: An Interactive Digital Lab Guide for Histology

Barry G. Timms, Ph.D.
University of South Dakota, School of Medicine

Abstract:

HistoWeb provides interactive learning material for first year medical students studying microscopic anatomy (histology). This redesigned section of a School of Medicine Anatomy course has been used for a preliminary evaluation of approximately one third of the laboratory section. The material was used to guide the students through selected tissues of the human body, as seen through a microscope. The new format has facilitated assisted instruction and provided a unique opportunity for independent study. HistoWeb has been designed to allow for continued upgrade, for use in lectures and for compatibility with sections of this and other Anatomy courses, especially those with a laboratory section and institutional specimens.

During the preparation of this instructional material, hundreds of tissue images were collected using a high-resolution digital camera attached to a microscope. The images were incorporated into an interactive digital laboratory guide, using Web-based authoring software. The main components of the course material consist of a database of images from the students' slide sets, with accompanying descriptions of identified components. A novel feature of this material was the use of image mapping techniques that allowed labeling and identification of cell and tissue components. Interactive options also included self-testing section quizzes, and the ability to search the entire material.

The course material was made available to students in the laboratory setting via Internet connection, as well as for self-paced study in either a computer lab or dial-up connection from the university server.

Future plans include completion of all the laboratory sections, inclusion of electron micrographs and links to additional quiz material so that students and faculty can monitor learning progress and proficiency. Where appropriate, links to other medical-based resources will complement the course material.

Benefit in Attending Session:

The development of this teaching material has resulted from input and collaboration with students who have taken this course during the past two years. While tailored to suit the requirements of our particular program of study, its design is flexible enough to be modified for alternative text and graphic material. I believe that my experiences and frustrations associated with the development of HistoWeb may assist others who are attempting to implement this new teaching technology. More importantly, this meeting would provide an opportunity for peer review of my demonstration and allow me to take advantage of suggestions to improve the teaching efficiency of the course design.

Barry G. Timms
Division of Basic Biomedical Sciences,
Uiversity of South Dakota, School of Medicine,
414 East Clark St.,
Vermillion, SD 57059
 
605-677-5144
Fax Number:
605-677-6381
btimms@usd.edu
http://www.usd.edu/~btimms/web521/labguide.htm