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Anatatorium: a stereoscopic three‐dimensional laboratory experience
Author(s) -
Wilson Timothy D.,
Ding Yang,
Vandenbogaard Angela M,
Greven Nicholas,
Haase Peter,
Johnson Marjorie
Publication year - 2007
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.21.5.a86-b
Subject(s) - stereoscopy , orientation (vector space) , computer science , parallax , computer graphics (images) , artificial intelligence , mathematics , geometry
Student enrollment in health science and related programmes has risen dramatically over the past decade. Many core curricula require gross anatomical education but time and resource allotment for laboratory experiences are significantly reduced. The challenge for educators is to offer quality, information rich, and objective driven laboratories to provide students alternative experiences that are not repetitious of lecture presentations. The new approach described herein utilizes virtual models projected stereoscopically for laboratory groups. The virtual models are developed using CT or MR images, processed slice‐by‐slice, for tissue differentiation and identification. Exploiting dual‐source projection and passive stereo glasses, data is rendered stereoscopically offering superior depth perception and spatial orientation without viewer parallax. As models are data matrices and not two‐dimensional pictures, manipulation and close examination is possible from any orientation. Tissues may be digitally added or removed to better understand relationships in vivo. This vantage represents a significant improvement for students not normally exposed to the cadaveric wet laboratories and may offer a unique adjunct in an educational environment moving towards expanding lectures and contracting labs.