Light Microscopy for Teaching-Learning in Histology Practical in Undergraduate Medical Education of Bangladesh-a Teachers’ Perspective

Objectives: This study was aimed at looking into the perceptions of Bangladeshi teachers of Anatomy regarding the advantages and disadvantages of using glass slide and microscope in the teaching-learning of Histology in the practical classes at the undergraduate level of medical education in Bangladesh.

Methods: Interviews were carried out with 21 teachers of Anatomy from ten medical colleges of Bangladesh from January to December, 2014.

Results: The interviewee teachers identified five basic advantages of traditional light microscopy in the teaching-learning of practical Histology. They were: positive psychological impact on students, contributions in long-time memorization of topics, development of practical skills and development of diagnostic capability, and direct one-to-one contact. The five basic disadvantages identified were: difficulty in understanding by the students, difficulty in guidance and feedback, inadequacy of good slides, difficulty in arranging revision classes and discomfort in handling microscopes. Use of computer-based supporting aids has been suggested for improving the teaching and learning.

Conclusions: Study findings revealed several advantages and disadvantages of traditional light microscopy based practical Histology teaching-learning as perceived by the teachers. Suggestions regarding improvement through blending computer based supporting aids to the traditional light microscopy were also noted.