Evaluation of a computer program ('disect') to consolidate anatomy knowledge: a randomised-controlled trial.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Anatomical Imaging
• Computer-Assisted Learning

Background:

• Medical imaging offers accurate anatomical visualization, crucial for evolving undergraduate anatomy education.
• The 'disect' program reconstructs 3D anatomy from CT images, presenting a novel educational resource.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement and evaluate a new computer-based imaging tool for anatomy education.
• Assess the effectiveness of the 'disect' program in enhancing medical students' understanding of gastro-intestinal anatomy.

Main Methods:

• Third-year medical students were randomized to self-directed or guided use of the 'disect' program.
• Gastro-intestinal anatomy knowledge was assessed via a 20-item test; student attitudes were measured using Likert scales.

Main Results:

• Students found 'disect' easy to use and beneficial for anatomy learning.
• No significant difference in test scores between self-directed and guided program use (p=0.52).
• Students participating in a digestive system dissection module scored significantly higher (p=0.005).

Conclusions:

• Computer programs utilizing CT-derived 3D images, like 'disect', can be effectively used by students.
• Imaging-based resources can supplement traditional teaching methods, supporting multimodal anatomy learning.
• Integrating 'disect' can enhance the learning experience for medical undergraduates studying anatomy.