Presentation Title:

Development of a Technologically Enhanced Educational Environment for Teaching Human Anatomy

James J. Walker, J. Leslie Booth, Aaron D. Booth, Peter Ponco

Purdue University and Lafayette Center for Medical Education (Indiana U. Sc. of Medicine)

Abstract:

The study of anatomy is an integral part of the training of medical students worldwide and remains one of the most extensive and demanding basic science disciplines due to its immense knowledge base and diversity of components. In recent years anatomy courses have become more expansive in an effort to integrate basic structure with various imaging modalities and clinical correlates. The result is that students are faced with managing larger volumes of learning resources that come from widely dispersed sources and in a variety of formats. Thus we saw an immediate need to augment core anatomy materials with other learning resources that not only integrate related disciplines but also provide them in an accessible format that promotes active learning. We have addressed this problem by developing an ensemble of multimedia-based resources focused on the study of Human Anatomy.

The goal of this project is to create a comprehensive dynamic learning environment that enhances the effectiveness of student learning while producing fast, accessible functional learning resources that that students use regularly. The major advantage of this approach is that students will not need to conduct time-consuming searches for information that is currently widely dispersed and often of very poor quality. We predict that the greatest impact of these resources on learning will be to strengthen the student’s basic science knowledge and to provide access to materials that integrate structural and functional components of specific body systems. Thus we can allow students to use their time efficiently, foster active and independent learning while at the same time maintaining their interest and enthusiasm.

Benefit in Attending Session:

We have introduced some innovative ways of providing students with anatomy-related information. We have created an ensemble of electronic resources that integrate text, images, audio and video in a fast, accessible format that students use to supplement their anatomy courses. There may be interesting opportunities for collaborative efforts as well.

PRIMARY AUTHOR'S INFORMATION

James J. Walker

Department of Basic Medical Sciences

Purdue University and Lafayette Center for Medical Education

(Indiana University School of Medicine)

G136 Lynn Hall

West Lafayette, IN 47907-1246

Telephone Number: 765-494-8621

Fax Number: 765-494-0781

E-mail Address: jjw@vet.purdue.edu

Web Site: http://www.vet.purdue.edu/bms/bimrc

CO-AUTHORS' INFORMATION