Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 16, 2025
07:25
An Objective and Child-friendly Assessment of Arm Function by Using a 3-D Sensor
Published on: February 12, 2018
7.2K
Collect the Bones, Avoid the Cones: A Game-Based App for Public Engagement
Yasmin Wong1,2, Paul M Rea3, Brian Loranger4
1Anatomy Facility, School of Life Sciences, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, UK. yasminmeileiwong@gmail.com.
Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology
|July 3, 2020
Summary
A new game-based app effectively teaches human skull anatomy to younger audiences, significantly boosting confidence. While knowledge scores didn't change, the engaging app improved understanding and enjoyment of anatomical sciences.
Area of Science:
- Anatomical sciences
- Science communication
- Educational technology
Background:
- Game-based applications and serious games enhance learning in complex life sciences.
- Gamification principles increase learner motivation and engagement in scientific subjects.
- Effective science communication requires enjoyable methods to discuss real-world scientific contexts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design, develop, and evaluate a game-based app, "Collect the Bones, Avoid the Cones," for public engagement on human skull anatomy.
- To contextualize three-dimensional (3D) skull anatomy within a narrative about cycling and helmet safety for younger audiences.
- To assess the app's pedagogical value, including knowledge, confidence, and user experience.
Main Methods:
- The study involved designing and developing a game-based app focused on human skull anatomy.
- The app was tested at the Glasgow Science Centre with 50 participants (mean age 15.6, 62% aged 7-12).
- Pre- and post-app assessments measured knowledge and confidence, alongside general user evaluation.
Main Results:
- Usability and educational value were rated highly; 70% could use the app without instructions, and 90% reported better skull anatomy understanding.
- The game was highly enjoyable, with 94% of participants liking it.
- A statistically significant increase in confidence regarding skull anatomy was observed (p < 0.001), though knowledge scores showed no significant change.
Conclusions:
- Game-based apps show potential for public engagement in anatomical sciences.
- The "Collect the Bones, Avoid the Cones" app demonstrates effectiveness in increasing confidence and understanding of skull anatomy.
- Future research should explore the app's impact on attitudes towards helmet use across different demographics.
Related Concept Videos
01:18Classification of Bones
9.2K
The bones of the human skeletal system are of varied shapes, sizes, and functions. They can be classified based on their shape and function into four major classes: long bones, short bones, flat bones, and irregular bones. Some classifications include a fifth type, the sesamoid bones, as a separate class, whereas others categorize them under short bones.
Long and Short Bones
The appendicular skeleton, particularly the upper and lower limbs, is primarily made of long and short bones. The...
Long and Short Bones
The appendicular skeleton, particularly the upper and lower limbs, is primarily made of long and short bones. The...
9.2K
01:40Bone Remodeling
40.0K
Bone remodeling is a continuous and balanced process of bone resorption by osteoclasts and bone formation by osteoblasts. In adults, it helps maintain bone mass and calcium homeostasis. While mechanical stress can stimulate turnover as part of the normal maintenance and reparative process, several hormones also regulate bone remodeling.
40.0K
01:55Bone Structure
51.2K
Within the skeletal system, the structure of a bone, or osseous tissue, can be exemplified in a long bone, like the femur, where there are two types of osseous tissue: cortical and cancellous.
51.2K
01:26Bone Markings
7.7K
Bones have various surface features that help form joints and attach to other soft tissues. Depending on the function, bone markings are categorized into articulating projections, processes for attachment, depressions, and openings.
Articulating Projections
Articulating projections are found where two bones meet to form a joint. These structures are usually found at the ends of bones. The largest articulation is a rounded projection called the head, supported by a narrow neck at the ends of...
Articulating Projections
Articulating projections are found where two bones meet to form a joint. These structures are usually found at the ends of bones. The largest articulation is a rounded projection called the head, supported by a narrow neck at the ends of...
7.7K
01:12Carbon Skeletons
113.5K
Life on Earth is carbon-based, as all macromolecules that make up living organisms contain carbon atoms. All organic compounds have a carbon backbone. Each carbon atom is tetravalent and can bond with four other atoms, making it an extraordinarily flexible component of biological molecules. Because carbon’s valence electrons are stable, it rarely becomes an ion. As the carbon chain increases in length, structural modifications such as ring structures, double bonds, and branching side...
113.5K
01:27Compact Bone
15.6K
Most bones contain compact and spongy osseous tissue, but their distribution and concentration vary based on the bone's overall function.
Compact bone, also called cortical bone, is the denser, stronger of the two types of bone tissue. It is found under the periosteum and in the diaphyses of long bones, where it provides support and protection. The microscopic structural unit of compact bone is called an osteon, or haversian system. Each osteon is composed of concentric rings of calcified...
Compact bone, also called cortical bone, is the denser, stronger of the two types of bone tissue. It is found under the periosteum and in the diaphyses of long bones, where it provides support and protection. The microscopic structural unit of compact bone is called an osteon, or haversian system. Each osteon is composed of concentric rings of calcified...
15.6K