What is HistoLab?

HistoLab is a portal designed for students studying Histology at the University of Technology, Sydney. It gives students an opportunity to access digital images of microscope slides before they come to laboratory class. Students view digital images of histology sections and answer a series of multiple choice questions aimed at reinforcing the threshold concepts necessary to understand this subject. They will receive feedback showing their answer, the correct answer, and the class answer. Importantly, I can also see how the entire class has responded, which allows me to identify gaps in the knowledge and concentrate on specific areas during class time.

Each module covers aspects of one topic in the curriculum. A module takes about 10 minutes to complete. HistoLab modules are not compulsory, nor are they assessed, but it will benefit students to complete these modules, to refer to their textbook and lecture notes, their practical manuals and do some independent research as they go. Then, when they attend practical class and have hands on access to the slides and microscopes, they will know what to look for and where. They will be able to use their time more efficiently in class investigating the more detailed morphology and specializations of individual cells and tissues.

Histology images available in textbooks tend to be “gold standard”. Histology slides in real life can be far from perfect. Our teaching slides are unique. HistoLab gives students the opportunity to have a sneak peek before they come to class. HistoLab can be used a pre-lab tutorial, a quiz or as a revision tool. Students can complete modules in their own space and in their own time and they can come back and try again later.