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On the use of 3D anatomical software as a study aid in gross anatomy courses
Author(s) -
Daniel Joseph C
Publication year - 2013
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.27.1_supplement.lb10
Subject(s) - gross anatomy , software , software portability , class (philosophy) , test (biology) , computer science , medical physics , medical education , anatomy , multimedia , medicine , artificial intelligence , biology , paleontology , programming language
A multiyear study investigated usage and efficacy of three‐dimensional (3D) anatomy software as a supplement to standard atlases. In year one, all first‐year medical students in the gross anatomy (GA) course at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) were offered use of the program “Interactive Functional Anatomy” (Primal Pictures). Due to limited rotational axes and perceived slowness of the software, few students used it and none extensively. In year two, students were given access to www.anatomy.tv (Primal Pictures), an online version with substantial performance improvement in line with student responses. Student interest and perception of the program greatly increased. No significant differences were seen in test scores, either in class or on the National Board of Medical Examiners standardized test by students using the website. Even so, more students are aware of and expect 3D anatomy software during their education (0% of GA students in 2010, 45% in 2013). Successful software should include tablet portability, fast response, easy search and labeling, 3D axes rotation, ability to hide or make transparent specific structures or groups, pruning, and quizzes. Funding by UAMS.