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CLINICAL PRACTICE: EDUCATION
Germ Ware Mycology is an image-rich, CD-ROM-based instruction divided into tutorial and reference programs. The tutorial program, designed for new students, provides only for sequential progress through each of the subject modules, so that each page of information is seen. In contrast, the reference program allows the more experienced learner with random and direct access to each facet of information. The aspergilli, the agents of chromomycosis, the dermatophytes, the dimorphic fungi, the hyaline molds, the dematiaceous molds, the yeasts, and the zygomyces are divided into separate modules. The tutorial program also includes an opening `isolation procedures' module, in which details of specimen collection, culture media, and microscopic techniques are presented. The random access program includes system maps separating out each of the fungal species, and flow diagrams allowing an algorithm approach to species identifications. A global map is also included through which each fungal species can be directly accessed by the simple click of the mouse. Random access to information on the ecology, clinical presentations, pathology, and therapy of the various mycotic diseases is also a feature of the reference program. A series of self-assessment exercises is included at the end of each module, with immediate `pop-up' feedback to both correct and incorrect answers. The entire program includes over 2500 screens and over 700 color images and diagrams. Germ Ware Mycology is available through the Colorado Association for Continuing Medical Laboratory Education (CACMLE), who also can provide continuing education credits for individuals who complete a separate examination. For more information contact CACMLE at (303) 321-1734 or [email protected].
INDEX TERMS: distance learning, mycology.
Clin Lab Sci 2002;15(3):131
CONSTRUCT OF THE DISTANCE LEARNING COURSE
This paper describes a distance-learning course in medical mycology presented to the clinical laboratory science (CLS) students enrolled in the Medical Technology Program at the University of Wyoming. The course was eight weeks in duration, and individual modules within the Germ Ware Tutorial and Reference Program by Elmer Koneman served as the basic study materials. The book, Fundamentals of Diagnostic Mycology by Fran Fisher and Norma Cook, provided supplementary material for optional study. Except for an introductory, on-site lecture covering the fundamental techniques and procedures required to recover and identify the fungi of medical importance, no additional...