Integrative online/onsite system enhances histology learning in medical education

Abstract

Here we describe the development of a modular program of histology e‐classes and evaluate the effectiveness of an integrative system that articulates e‐learning with traditional onsite education. We produced a set of short e‐classes designed to first‐year medical students. Each e‐class included an online multiple‐choice test, with due date set for the day before the onsite lecture. Scores and statistics guided the onsite approach as they identified the essential information to be reviewed, emphasized and/or detailed in a particular topic. We compared student's grades in the main exams considering the equivalent group of students from the previous year as controls. Students were also required to answer a questionnaire on their learning experience with the program. We observed a general improvement and a positive overall acceptance. To translate the contents of traditional classes into short online videos has technically challenging pitfalls, requiring flexibility and improvement in our communication skills. The integrative learning system allowed for time optimization, since lectures could focus students’ needs and/or interests. Although interactivity and technology support are issues to be improved, the program brought good results, standing as another example e‐technology as a learning enhancer, when used as a facilitating feature, integrated to the traditional paradigm in medical education.