Flipping The Practice Based Pathology Laboratory-Can It Support Development Of Practitioner Capability For Trainee Pathologists in Gynaecological Cytopathology?

This study investigated the role of 'flipping', the practice-based pathology laboratory and classroom to support the development of trainee pathologist practitioners' in the field of gynaecological cytopathology, addressing development of their knowledge and practical application in the clinical setting. Content-rich courses traditionally involve lecture led delivery which restricts tutors from adopting approaches that support greater student engagement in the topic area and application of knowledge to practice. We investigated the role of 'flipping', the practice-based pathology laboratory and classroom where 'virtual lectures' were accessed outside of 'class time' allowing more time for students to engage in active learning under the supervision of a consultant histopathologist. 'Flipping' was used to support two gynaecological cytopathology training courses with cohorts of eight trainee pathologists on the first course and six on the second. Lectures were made available to the trainees to watch before attending the workshops. The workshops consisted of group activities and individual practical exercises allowing trainees to review and report on patient practice cases with the support of their peers and tutors. Focus group sessions were held after each course, allowing trainee pathologists to reflect on their experiences. Discussions were transcribed and thematic analysis was used to capture key themes discussed by the trainees. Trainees' identified that 'flipping' provided them with more time during face-to-face sessions, enabling a greater depth of questioning and engagement with the consultant histopathologists. Having already watched the lectures, trainees were able to attend the sessions having identified areas in which they needed additional support and development. Trainee pathologists reported they had more time to concentrate on developing their skills and practise under the guidance of the consultant histopathologists so developing their capability in gynaecological cytopathology. The role of alternative methods of delivery such as 'flipping' is suggested for short courses designed to support practitioner capability and continued professional development.