Clay modeling versus written modules as effective interventions in understanding human anatomy.

Area of Science:

• Anatomy Education
• Medical Education Research
• Learning Modalities

Background:

• Understanding complex 3D anatomical relationships is crucial for medical students.
• Traditional teaching methods may not cater to diverse learning preferences (visual, auditory, read/write, kinesthetic).
• Investigating novel pedagogical approaches is essential for improving anatomical education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effectiveness of clay modeling versus written modules for learning and retaining anatomical 3D relationships.
• To assess the impact of different learning preferences on the efficacy of these teaching modalities.
• To determine if interventions improve learning outcomes compared to a control group.

Main Methods:

• Thirty-nine undergraduate students in a cadaver dissection course participated.
• Students completed a pre-assessment and VARK questionnaire to identify learning preferences.
• Participants were assigned to clay modeling, written modules, or control groups for weekly sessions.
• Post-assessment and delayed retention tests were administered.

Main Results:

• Both clay modeling and written modules significantly improved immediate learning (Δ1) compared to the control group (P ≤ 0.05).
• No significant differences in learning gains were observed between the clay and module groups.
• Retention scores (Δ2) did not significantly differ between intervention and control groups, nor across learning preferences.
• A trend suggested certain learning styles performed better with specific modalities.

Conclusions:

• Clay modeling and written modules are effective for immediate learning of anatomical 3D relationships.
• While retention benefits were not statistically significant, interventions show promise.
• Tailoring teaching modalities to individual learning preferences may further optimize anatomical education.
• Multiple teaching modalities are recommended to accommodate diverse learning styles and enhance comprehension.