Learning and teaching histology: traditional and computational methods

Abstract

The traditional methodology used in histology laboratory instruction of histology is based primarily on the use of photonic microscopes and histological slides, which did not allow the simultaneous observation by several people, prevents an interactive discussion, making the laboratory teaching-learning process less motivating and advantageous. The use of various computer-based technologies (including virtual microscopy and virtual slides), as well as video projection, using digital cameras attached to the microscope in histology laboratory instruction is an interesting alternative method to offset the disadvantages inherent to the conventional methodology. Advances in computer sciences allow us to play a considerable amount of images and transfer them to monitor students' computers, resulting in its comfortable and objective viewing, thus facilitating the recognition of tissues and structures and their histomorphometric study through computer programs. In addition), the use of platforms for distance learning (e.g. Moodle), also allows the study of histology to be undertaken outside the classroom. The objective of this paper is to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of traditional methods of histological sections visualization in photonic microscope, and the use of computer resources in teaching animal histology.