Online teaching and training resources such as MyScope have proven to be more important than ever in helping facilities and course leaders manage pandemic-impacted teaching, training and access regimes.
The aim of MyScope is to save time for microscopy trainers in facilities everywhere and improve microscopy facility efficiency. By allowing new users to learn at their own pace before hands-on training, less time is required to bring them up to speed on fundamental and technique-specific knowledge, including the basics of instrument operation. This training experience is delivered through technique-specific modules with well-illustrated and clear theory, realistic but brand-agnostic simulators, a glossary, further links and self-assessment quizzes. The simulators are designed to teach concepts rather than to mimic any particular vendor’s interface, while giving the learner a realistic experience with the components encountered when operating an instrument.
When MyScope was first launched, there were six modules (SEM, TEM, Confocal, XRD, SPM and EDS). Building on the success of these modules, changes in the microscopy landscape, and to further support the Australian and international microscopy community, Microscopy Australia has expanded MyScope to 12 modules. This will soon grow to 13, with a secondary ion mass spectroscopy (SIMS) module currently in development.
This new module covers cryo-TEM with sample preparation; single particle analysis; cryo-electron tomography; sub-tomogram averaging; electron crystallography; Cryo-SEM and Cryo-FIB. It doesn’t have its own simulator as the SEM, TEM and FIB simulators cover the basics of the instrument operation needed for those particular instruments. Instead, a number of interactive elements have been included that provide users with a range of engagement opportunities that emphasise and consolidate the learning of concepts.
As well as the theory component, this module includes a comprehensive simulator that takes users step by step through FIB processes, explaining what they need to do and why. The importance and significance of different e-beam and ion-beam settings on different sample types for milling, Pt deposition, cross-section cutting and cleaning are emphasised as users progress through the sequence of activities undertaken on the FIB. Multiple screens show the chamber, the navigation image and the views with each of the e-beam and ion beam.
This module has been enhanced with a new simulator that covers Brightfield, Widefield Fluorescence and Confocal microscopy. Single molecule localisation microscopy mode has also been added and STED will be live shortly. The Brightfield and Widefield Fluorescence modes are set to mimic the “on-the-microscope” controls, whereas the confocal and super-resolution modes switch to a computer-based panel of controls, reflecting the situation on real instruments.
This module has a new simulator with four different samples: zebrafish, nanoparticles, a mineral and an alloy. This set has been carefully selected to allow users to understand both the nature of the types of TEM imaging appropriate for each type of sample as well as the different, sample-specific series of alignments and settings. The activities conducted are standard TEM imaging, diffraction, HRTEM and STEM. Actions that need to be done on the column itself are carried out on an interactive diagram of the microscope, while those that are normally done through the computer interface are done through buttons on a control panel.
As an XRD is a relatively simple instrument to operate, this new simulator includes actual data from 20 real samples through a realistic interface. This not only lets users learn how to use the instrument but lets them explore the nature of the data generated from the diverse sample set.
Adding this important area to the MyScope suite of modules recognises that microscopists now need to deal with increasing amounts of complex data. Effective management of this data is crucial to productive research and collaboration. Acknowledging that specific data management protocols vary across institutions and countries, this module covers the principles behind good data management practice.
This revised module has been restructured to introduce novice users to cross-cutting concepts in microscopy, irrespective of technique. By providing clear explanations of magnification; resolution; lenses and the basis of their aberrations; the electromagnetic spectrum and how wavelength affects imaging; right through to the basics and ethics of working with digital images, including file formats and look-up tables, it is an ideal primer for new users embarking on a wide range of microscopy techniques.
April 11, 2023
