The "Make Surgical Pathology Easy" project: learning Pathology through tailored digital infographics - the case for renovation of an old teaching method.

The term ‘infographics’ is a blend of the two words “information” and “graphics”. Infographics can be described as ‘information visualizations’, conceived as visual translation of data including text, numbers, graphs, charts, drawings and so on. Visual representations are a fundamental part of scientific communication. They match the need to organize different pieces of information in a coherent and synthetic structure and constitute one of the most effective method scientists rely on to divulge their findings. In particular, infographics provide an overview of key points regarding specific topics in a form that promotes quick learning and knowledge retention. They can be presented in printed or digital formats, being the last particularly suitable for a global-scale diffusion via social media or websites. In recent years, many pathologists have started developing digital infographics as a strategy for providing free educational contents on Facebook, Twitter or websites. Among the better-designed, most comprehensive and impactful, the infographics comprised in the ‘Make Surgical Pathology Easy’ project deserve a particular mention. They are artistic pencil-sketches placed on PowerPoint slides which summarize various aspects of Surgical and General Pathology. They shed light on diagnostic criteria, differentials and predictive/prognostic markers for many diseases, being a useful learning tool both for residents and practicing pathologists. In this paper, the model of infographics ideation, processing and sharing to an online audience is described and the impact of infographics on knowledge processes in Pathology is investigated.