Student interest in botany and enrolment in plant sciences courses tends to be low compared to that in other
biological disciplines. One potential way of increasing student interest in botany is to focus on course material
designed to raise student enthusiasm and satisfaction. Here, we introduce and evaluate virtual microscopy in
botany teaching. Virtual microscopy uses high-resolution digital ‘virtual slides’ that allow students to explore
microscope sections without the advanced skills required to prepare glass slides. Questionnaire feedback from
students indicated that students found the virtual slides an effective learning tool. Further, we found that student
performance in assessments was significantly higher when using virtual slides than when using traditional glass
slides. We suggest that virtual slides are an effective tool for increasing student satisfaction in introductory botany
courses, and have the potential for increasing student enrolment in higher-level courses (honours) and
research degrees.

• Engaging students by emphasising botanical concepts over techniques: innovative practical exercises using virtual microscopy

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