The Australian Microscopy and Microanalysis Research Facility (AMMRF) has developed a suite of online learning tools, involving sophisticated microscope simulators in modules suited to training of microscopy users and STEM outreach to school students.The AMMRF a national grid of equipment, instrumentation and expertise in microscopy and microanalysis. It is a collaborative distributed network of core facilities that provides nanostructural characterisation capability and services to more than 3,000 researchers annually. Once a researcher has identified the centre they need to work with, they are supported through a common research experience. This comprises stages to define and formulate the scientific question, identify the most appropriate techniques, register the project and meet to discuss the techniques, plan training and arrange access to instrumentation. Users then go on to data acquisition and analysis, data management and ultimately an outcome such as a research publication, grant application or invention registration or patent. With more than 3,000 users annually, training can take up a significant portion of an instrument's bookable time, making it unavailable for experienced researchers. There was therefore a strong need to efficiently train users while minimising time taken up with on-instrument training. Online training tools that incorporate instrument simulators were developed in response to this need. They have proven highly beneficial in reducing on-instrument training time while turning out more competent and knowledgeable users. The free, online site, MyScope™, covers six microscopy and microanalytical techniques and has reduced the on-instrument training time by around 25% [1].The modules provide a novel advancement in online training with an ecosystem composed of a supported learning environment for flexible learning; a tailoring capability for academics and trainers; self guided tutorials with videos, animations and glossary to prepare students with knowledge and specialist language; instrument simulators where they can practice use of instrumentation; and online competency testing to demonstrate readiness for hands-on experience [1]. The instrument simulators were specifically designed to provide a realistic interface that users can master at their own pace before presenting for one-on-one training. This builds confidence and competency.MyScope™ is supported by TechFi™, a web application that enables prospective facility users to identify the most suitable techniques for their research, based on a researcher-centric approach and terminology. It offers one area for biological scientists and another for researchers in the physical sciences, which allow them to identify techniques based on research dimensions in corresponding fields. Locations and contact details to each of the AMMRF facilities invite users to get started immediately. As well as training AMMRF microscope users, MyScope™ has been taken up by other core facilities and 2300
Abstract:In response to the requirements imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, we developed a remote learning undergraduate workshop for 44 students at the University of Newcastle by embedding scanning electron microscope (SEM) images of Maratus (Peacock) spiders into the MyScope Explore environment. The workshop session had two main components: 1) to use the online MyScope Explore tool to virtually image scales with structural color and pigmented color on Maratus spiders; 2) to join a live SEM session via Zoom to image an actual Maratus spider. In previous years, the undergraduate university students attending this annual workshop would enter the Microscopy Facility at the University of Newcastle to image specimens with SEM; however, in 2020 the Microscopy Facility was closed to student visitors, and this virtual activity was developed in order to proceed with the educational event. The program was highly successful and constitutes a platform that can be used in the future by universities for teaching microscopy remotely.
Extended abstract of a paper presented at Microscopy and Microanalysis 2013 in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA, August 4 – August 8, 2013.
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