Does stereoscopic immersive virtual reality have a significant impact on anatomy education? A literature review

Stereoscopic immersive virtual reality (SIVR) is a technology that fully immerses the user in a digital environment and permits the perception of two different three-dimensional images of a digital object with each of the two eyes. We conducted a literature review to explore to what extent SIVR can significantly contribute to anatomy education.

We searched PubMed, Scopus, ERIC, and the Cochrane Library for papers investigating the outcomes (effectiveness, perceptions about effectiveness, and side effects) of implementing SIVR in anatomy education.

Eight articles were included. Six examined the effectiveness of the educational intervention, while two papers explored only participants' perceptions. Those perceptions were positive, but there was a considerably higher frequency of side effects compared with other methods. SSIVR was not significantly more effective than non-stereoscopic delivery, mainly when the users interacted with the virtual environment.

Using SIVR in anatomy education has led to positive participants' perceptions and notable side effects, while its effectiveness has not been proven higher than non-stereoscopic images, mainly when the users interacted with the digital objects. Future research will further clarify to what extent this technology should be implemented in anatomy education to minimize side effects and maximize its educational potential.