NeuroView: A Computer-Based Learning Tool for Neuroanatomy
Donna J. Forbes,
Ph.D. and Arlen R. Severson, Ph.D.
University of Minnesota-Duluth School of Medicine, Duluth, MN
Abstract:
This interactive computer-based learning tool was developed to facilitate the learning of neuroanatomical structures, their relationships and terminology. High quality images of intact and dissected gross specimens plus whole brain sections and magnetic resonance images (MRIs) in the coronal, horizontal (or axial) and sagittal planes are included. Neural structures are identified by transparent overlays corresponding to the name of the structure. No lines or other obstructions hide details on the images. Students can use the program in either an "Identification" Mode or a "Quiz" Mode. The program is delivered to the medical students on CD-ROM for use on any Macintosh or PC computer at the School of Medicine or on their personal computers.
Use of this program facilitates the teaching and learning of
neuroanatomy:
·
Students have access to gross nervous system specimens, brain
sections and MRIs at any time and location they wish to study. Previously, brain dissections were limited
in number, fragile and easily damaged; access to brain sections and MRIs was
limited to textbook illustrations.
· Many of the gross nervous system specimens prepared for the computer-based program will be plastinized so that students can use them next to the computers in our Learning Resource Center. This will reduce the time spent in the wet laboratory with its attendant exposure to hazardous materials (formalin, etc.) and the need to prepare replacement dissections each year.
·
This computer-based program is much more efficient than the
traditional laboratory. Students can
navigate to those regions of the central nervous sytem they wish to study and
receive immediate feedback on their knowledge of neuroanatomical structures.
The dissections of gross brain specimens were prepared from cadaver material at the School of Medicine. The Yakovlev collection brain sections were photographed at the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology in Washington, D.C. MRIs were provided by Charles Truwit, M.D., Department of Radiology, University of Minnesota-Minneapolis. Future phases of this learning tool will incorporate additional images and features.
Benefit in Attending
Session:
Attendees will see how we have chosen to provide anytime, anyplace
access to our collection of gross nervous system specimens combined with brain
sections and MRIs. The authors welcome
feedback regarding improvements, changes, and/or other pertinent information
related to the development and delivery of this material.
PRIMARY AUTHOR'S
INFORMATION
Donna J. Forbes, Ph.D.
Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology
University of Minnesota-Duluth
School of Medicine
10 University Drive
Duluth, MN 55812
Telephone Number: 218-726-8882
Fax Number: 218-726-6235
E-mail Address: dforbes@d.umn.edu
Arlen R. Severson, Ph.D.
Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology
University of Minnesota-Duluth
School of Medicine
10 University Drive
Duluth, MN 55812
Telephone Number(s): 218-726-7903
Fax Number(s): 218-726-6235
E-mail Address(es): aseverso@d.umn.edu