The microscopic world has potential to engage a wide variety of people with the beauty of science. Recent technological advancements have resulted in development of portable, cost-effective microscopes and imaging devices. This project compared four microscope options for use in community outreach. K-12 students participants attending a variety of community outreach events completed a Likert-type survey rating four microscopes (Phone Clip Microscope, Endoscope with Screen, Dissecting Microscope, Compound Microscope with Screen) on image clarity and user friendliness for viewing live planaria. We hypothesized that microscopes with built-in digital screens instead of eyepieces would receive the highest rating. This hypothesis was supported, as the compound microscope with screen had a significantly higher rating than the other microscopes. Interestingly, there was little effect of participant age on responses. Observations suggest that screens were more accessible than eyepieces, especially for younger students. Further, screens improved collaboration, as several participants could observe specimens together.
Keywords: Microscopy, Community Outreach, Affordable, User-Friendly, Planaria, K-12 Students
University of Manitoba (2025)
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