Development and assessment of a novel multimedia-based educational software for teaching peripheral blood smear morphology

Abstract

Objectives

This study has two aims: develop a simulated and interactive teaching software for highly skilled laboratory technicians, researchers, or practicing physicians in the departments of laboratory medicine, pathology, or hematology who are working on Peripheral Blood smear examination and evaluate the application and effectiveness of this educational software.

Methods

For this research, a cohort of 26 laboratory professionals was enlisted. The teaching software enabled the examination of 12 distinct leukocyte morphologies. Participants were tested before the training and subsequently after the training (at 2 weeks and 4 weeks, respectively), once the cumulative study duration reached the predefined benchmark of 180 min bi-weekly. The accuracy rate and time expended were compared and analyzed. The participants’ satisfaction with the learning experience provided by the multimedia software was evaluated by a questionnaire.

Results

The employment of the multimedia-based educational software markedly enhanced the ability of medical laboratory professionals to recognize morphological features. Participants’ feedback about this novel learning strategy was overwhelmingly positive.

Conclusion

This interactive teaching software was implemented to accelerate and bolster the operational proficiency of medical laboratory professionals by enhancing their comprehension of peripheral blood cell morphology, and to invigorate their enthusiasm for learning. Findings from an initial evaluation of this software indicate that both goals were achieved. The clinical experience of laboratory professionals plays a crucial role in their learning outcomes; thus, educators should focus on fostering clinical practice skills alongside the integration of multimedia teaching strategies.