Abstract:

Histology and Pathology are sciences where the morphological structure of cells, tissues and organs of the body, both in normal or altered states are examined under the microscope, the traditional teaching tool.
The practical component of these disciplines is especially important since it improves the acquisition of knowledge by promoting a better understanding of the structures studied. Given this premise, we are interested in improving teaching methods being a good alternative the use of audiovisual and computer media as well as incorporating an active methodology in practical courses using "Case Studies".
Therefore, we have digitized almost all tissue preparations to be presented at the Practical Course of Pathology of the Dentistry and Medicine Degrees at the Universidad Rey Juan Carlos (Madrid). With these "virtual preparations" we have designed a module in the Virtual Campus of the University with 15 practices which may be accessed on-line in order to get that students could be autonomous and independent of the microscope.

The benefits that digitization could bring the students would be:
1. To provide opportunities to learn at their own pace own.
2. To incorporate active teaching methodology focused on the student who would have to resolve cases before going to the formal session of practice.
3. Getting to students with physical or occupational difficulties that limit their attendance to classes.
4. The availability of a tool for continuous contact between student and teacher.
5. Having a tool to review and remember the essential background of Histology indispensable for Pathology.
6. A permanent refreshment of the contents.
Meanwhile, the Case Method is an active method of learning that uses the description of a real situation in which the pupil has to identify, analyze, evaluate and solve a problem.

Using the virtual preparations provided the student not only can use learning time for its convenience but the web-based learning platform have different communication tools (log of comments, discuss any doubts, email, etc.) which increase interactivity with teacher.
In short, the tools presented will enable the students to complete the activities scheduled in the regular course, allowing them to be the main actor in building their knowledge based on tools designed for self-learning and enhancing teacher self-evaluation.

PRACTICE MODULE WITH IMAGES OF VIRTUAL PREPARATIONS.
Practice: 1. Histological techniques used in pathology (9 virtual preparations, vp); 2. Injury and cell death (4 vp.); 3. Cellular adaptation (4 vp.); 4. Acute and Chronic Inflammation. Healing (5 vp.); 5. Hemodynamic Disorders (4 vp.); 6. Neoplasms (7 vp.); 7. Infectious diseases (6 vp.); 8. Oral cysts (7 vp.); 9. Dental infections and bone (4 vp.); 10. Bone lesions. Odontogenic tumors (5 vp.); 11. Epithelial disorders (5 vp.); 12. Oral infections; 13. Immune system disorders (5 vp.); 14. Tissue injury (5 vp.); 15. Salivary gland disorders (5 vp.).

Keywords:

case method, tics, medicine.