Virtual microscopy slide collection
ALTC has funded the development of a repository of virtual microscopy slide collections for Anatomy, Pathology, Botany/Ecology and Zoology.
This is now on line at http://virtualslides.unsw.edu.au
The public website explains the use of virtual microscopy in teaching and includes some sample slides. If you are interested in this approach to teaching, you can register to obtain access to the complete collections.
Virtual slides are very high resolution scans of stained tissue sections on glass slides, which are acquired using a ×40 microscope objective lens. They are stored in a special multi-layered file format so that with appropriate server software, it is possible to display only the relevant portion (appropriate field and magnification) of a very large file (typically 0.25-1.5 GB) rapidly within a web browser window (viewing in a local client application is also possible).
The software permits the user to "click and drag" and to "zoom in" on the image, as well as to adjust apparent illumination, thus simulating the use of a real microscope but eliminating the skill barrier that disadvantages many students. While virtual slides can be used in "hybrid" practical classes (together with glass slides and real microscopes) they are entirely suitable for use as the primary learning resource for undergraduate classes, as well as being very convenient for self-study.
Students readily adapt to the use of virtual microscopy and student feedback strongly indicates that virtual slides solve a number of problems in their learning, while providing good to excellent image quality. The use of shared workstations and appropriate structured worksheets in practical classes can promote collaboration and help to maintain interest in the study of microscopic features. With suitable software to ensure security, virtual slides can also be used for invigilated assessments.
The repository is not intended to be used by students, but allows course co-ordinators to browse available slides so that they can choose collections they might wish to utilise at their institution. It also provides sample practical class worksheets, illustrating the use of virtual slides in undergraduate teaching.
All of the collections and worksheets are available to Australian Higher Education institutions without charge. Implementation of teaching using virtual microscopy (either local availability or web-enabled access) is the responsibility of the recipient institution, although members of the project team are able to provide demonstrations/ workshops to assist with planning.
The primary contact is Prof Rakesh Kumar (Department of Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, UNSW; r.kumar@unsw.edu.au)
