Pathology e-Manual: A blended-learning online resource that supports face-to-face Pathology workshops

Abstract/Snapshot:

New, innovative and sustainable teaching strategies are required to enhance student engagement and to maximise learning outcomes. This pattern addresses the conversion of our traditional face-to-face pathology tutorials into a flexible, blended-learning experience. The development of a Google site that is an interactive digital learning space, provides access to an electronic pathology manual which incorporates short videos and digital activities. Students visit this site prior to the face-to-face workshop sessions. This pattern promotes both technology-integrated and active learning strategies.

Learning Context

The learning activities in Pathology e-Manual are designed for multi-cohort students at Bundoora campus (e.g. Laboratory Medicine, Biomedical Science, Chiropractic, Osteopathy, Chinese Medicine) in third and fourth year students depending on the program. The activities focus on the blended classroom approach, involving six online modules and six face-to-face workshop sessions throughout the semester. Each online module involves 30 minutes of learning time, and is followed by a 2 hour face-to-face workshop. Students are introduced to active learning methods in their face-to-face classes and in their private study. The learning activities such as mind-mapping, concept mapping, case study analysis, and decision trees can be adapted for use in any discipline.

Rationale

The development of the Pathology e-Manual will increase student engagement, encourage active learning, maximise learning outcomes and improve the quality of the overall student experience, leading to a deeper learning of pathology.

Learning Design

Instructions/process:

Relevant staff to attend Google Site Training.
Set up a Google Site using the e-book template and and appropraite banner. The Pathology e-Manual site will house 6 workshop modules and will be accessed by students and instructors via Blackboard or via a web link using the RMIT email account.
Each Google Site Workshop module will contain four items:
- An introduction (text & snapshot 1-2 minute video) informing students about the face-to-face session, what to expect and what they should prepare for in advance.
- Examples of the types of activities they will encounter in the face-to-face session e.g. mind-mapping, concept mapping, case study analysis or decision trees. These examples are provided via text, online resources and/or videos.
- Self-directed learning that examines the topic(s) of the week, via short answer questions and digital images. Each question will have a link that directs students to a separate page providing feedback.
- A quote to summarise and conclude the workshop theme.
Create an additional feedback section on workshop activities and assessments in the form of text and/or video.

Conditions/Critical Success Factors

This pattern requires that staff have appropriate staff development and specific discipline knowledge to set up, run and maintain a Google site.
It also requires course material that is suitable for online delivery.

Resources/Technology

1. A Google Site that supports face-to-face workshops:
Staff resources to set up and manage the site.
GET IT programs:
- Handbrake – to compress video files for the Google Site
- Adobe Presenter – to record and edit online videos
- RMIT DevelopMe site

Outcomes

This approach encourages independent learning and critical thinking. It improves delivery and access of the course material, prepares students for face-to-face sessions, increases student engagement and improves student/teacher interaction during the face-to-face workshops.

Learning outcomes

InspiringStudentLearningUsingEmployability.pdf

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Pathology e-Manual: A blended-learning online resource that supports face-to-face Pathology workshops

Design Pattern