Study limitations
Conclusion
Acknowledgements
References
workshop described here , the students were not given the opportunity to explore further applications of the HVOD method . Applications of this approach can be used for understanding the 3D spaces within body cavities . The same principles can be applied to examining hollow parts with one hand , while recording the internal surface dimensions with the other hand ( Branson et al ., 2021 ). By understanding 3D space , the interpretation of imaged structures within body cavities may be more easily achieved . 3D printed models , successfully used in surgical planning , can be haptically observed exposing surgeons to a variety of sensory feedback that may be encountered in the actual surgery ( Branson et al ., 2021 ). These clinical applications will likely contribute to improved spatial awareness required for medical procedures .
Non-traditional , innovative teaching methods have recently been introduced into medical schools and its impact on student performance is well documented ( Cracolici et al ., 2019 ; He et al ., 2019 ; Lyon et al ., 2013 ; Moore et al ., 2011 ). The HVOD method helped students gain higher perception of anatomical structures , which can later translate into higher ability to identify them – a skill anatomy students are expected to master during anatomy courses . This is especially important when recognising anatomical variations . Even three weeks after the workshop , students still held the belief that the HVOD method could help them prepare for spot exams , but not written ones . Perhaps during the time between the workshop and completing the feedback questionnaire , students had the chance to apply the HVOD principles to other anatomical areas and found it helpful . Due to the lack of similar studies , this observation cannot be generalized and requires further investigation to be validated . While its effect on test performance remains questionable , we are certain that the HVOD method can enhance learning at least by engaging students in the learning process through deeper observation .
Study limitations
We are aware that this study has a few limitations . Seeking students ’ perception on the effect of this approach on their learning imposes a great deal of subjectivity . A more objective method , such as a formal anatomy test , would provide solid evidence of the positive effects observed here . It is arguable that our sample size is small , however , for qualitative research , our cohort may be considered adequate . The findings and limitations of this pilot study will assist us in the planning of a follow-up study .
Conclusion
The HVOD method can enhance anatomy learning by allowing students to engage actively with anatomical structures . Although its effect on learning is not fully understood , possible facilitators for learning include conceptualisation of mental representations of structures , gaining knowledge through multisensory input , and consolidating that knowledge through the act of drawing . Further studies are required to fully examine its impact on test performance .
Acknowledgements
The authors thank King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences , KSA for funding this study .
References
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Anderton , R . S ., Chiu , L . S ., Aulfrey , S ., 2016 . Student Perceptions to Teaching Undergraduate Anatomy in Health Sciences . IJHE 5 , p201 . https :// doi . org / 10.5430 / ijhe . v5n3p201
Bareither , M . L ., Arbel , V ., Growe , M ., Muszczynski , E ., Rudd , A ., Marone , J . R ., 2013 . Clay modeling versus written modules as effective interventions in understanding human anatomy . Anat Sci Ed 6 , 170 – 176 . https :// doi . org / 10.1002 / ase . 1321
Borrelli , M ., Leung , B ., Morgan , M ., Saxena , S ., Hunter , A ., 2018 . Should drawing be incorporated into the teaching of anatomy ? J Contemp Med Edu 1 . https :// doi . org / 10.5455 / jcme . 20180411105347
Branson , T . M ., Shapiro , L ., Venter , R . G ., 2021 . Observation of Patients ’ 3D Printed Anatomical Features and 3D Visualisation Technologies Improve Spatial Awareness for Surgical Planning and in-Theatre Performance , in : Rea , P . M . ( Ed .), Biomedical Visualisation , Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology . Springer International Publishing , Cham , pp . 23 – 37 . https :// doi . org / 10.1007 / 978-3-030-76951-2 _ 2