Virtual Microscope: Using Simulated Equipment to Teach Experimental Techniques and Processes

Abstract

In large undergraduate courses, microscopy learning requires a large number of microscopes and samples, long observation times and qualified staff supervision for students to acquire expertise and criteria. Therefore, virtual microscopes are an ideal simulation tool to be incorporated into e-learning approaches. However, most of the virtual microscopes available fail to reproduce the experience of using a real microscope for experimentation. In this context, we designed a virtual microscope (VM) considering not only slice recognition and identification, but also adjustment of functional parts to optimize specimen observation. We present an experience with our VM to teach research abilities informed by the ACE-Bio Competencies framework and to improve basic competence in Cell Biology, and we provide guidelines for the use of a good simulator. The design of two different exercises in the VM platform illustrates how to develop different levels of technical and research skills. The analysis of the experience led us to conclude that VM may help to overcome microscopy training difficulties and provide a strategy for distance education focusing on student-centered learning.