Comparative Analysis of Multidimensional Learning Tools in Anatomy: A Randomized Control Trial

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Anatomy Teaching
• Comparative Study

Background:

• Traditional anatomy teaching relies on cadaveric dissection.
• Reduced dissection hours and cadaver availability necessitate alternative teaching tools.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effectiveness of dissection, plastic models, and 3D anatomy software in gross anatomy education.
• To evaluate student knowledge acquisition and perception across different learning modalities.

Main Methods:

• A study involving 282 medical students at Sheikh Bhikhari Medical College, Hazaribag.
• Students were divided into three groups: dissection (n=95), plastic models (n=94), and 3D anatomy software (n=93).
• Knowledge assessed via 100 multiple-choice questions (MCQ) and tag questions, followed by an evaluation questionnaire.

Main Results:

• Dissection and 3D software groups showed better performance in total, MCQ, and tag questions compared to the plastic models group.
• Dissection was rated higher in the evaluation questionnaire.
• Both dissection and 3D software were found to be superior to plastic models.

Conclusions:

• Cadaveric dissection remains the preferred and most effective method for gross anatomy knowledge attainment.
• While less effective, plastic models serve as a valuable preparatory tool for cadaveric laboratories.
• 3D anatomy software presents a viable alternative to traditional methods, showing comparable results to dissection in some aspects.