Videoconferences to Histology residents at the Sancti Spíritus University of Medical Sciences

Abstract

Background:

It is not known how Histology residents accept the inclusion of a videoconferencing system on the microscopic structure of the human body in their self-learning strategy.

Objective:

To explore to depth the experience of Histology residents at the Sancti Spíritus University of Medical Sciences who used a videoconferencing system for their professional training.

Methodology:

Qualitative study with in-depth interview was conducted with Histology specialists and residents who have used the videoconferencing system at the Sancti Spíritus University of Medical Sciences. The interviews were transcribed, coded and the main topics addressed were selected.

Results:

5 users of the videoconferencing system were interviewed; 5 themes emerged from the interview: 1) How residents insert videoconferences into their self-learning strategy, 2) Preference for videoconferences over textbooks, 3) Successes and failures of videoconferences, 4) What do videoconferences contribute to the training of the resident, advantages and disadvantages?, 5) Suggestions to improve videoconferences.

Conclusions:

A videoconferencing system on the microscopic structure of the human body can play a leading role in the learning strategy of Histology residents. The preference shown by residents for videoconferencing over other teaching media may be associated with the ability of multimedia to reduce cognitive load and facilitate learning when Mayer's principles are followed to developing these media. The presence of digital images in these videoconferences was essential to their acceptance.