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Enhancing anatomy education with virtual reality: integrating three-dimensional models for improved learning
Shuliang Niu1,2,3, Jinlong Zhang1, Jiang Lin1
1Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
Frontiers in Medicine
|June 19, 2025
Summary
Integrating three-dimensional (3D) anatomy models into blended learning enhances medical students' engagement and satisfaction. However, these models show limited impact on long-term retention and final exam performance.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Anatomy Education
- Educational Technology
Background:
- Traditional anatomy education relies on 2D imagery, limiting understanding of complex spatial relationships.
- Virtual reality and 3D anatomy models offer potential solutions to enhance anatomical visualization.
- Blended learning frameworks can integrate 3D models across different learning phases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of integrating 3D anatomy models into a blended learning framework on medical students' learning outcomes and satisfaction.
- To compare continuous versus phased integration strategies of 3D models.
- To assess the effectiveness of 3D anatomy models in improving knowledge acquisition and engagement.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 169 medical students from Xinjiang Medical University, divided into control (traditional blended learning) and experimental groups (continuous or phased 3D model integration).
- Learning outcomes assessed via formative evaluations and statistical analyses (independent samples t-tests, Mann-Whitney U tests).
- Student satisfaction measured through surveys with reliable instruments (Cronbach's alpha > 0.7).
Main Results:
- Continuous 3D model integration (Class B) significantly improved pre-class and in-class assessment scores compared to the control group (Class A).
- Phased 3D model integration (Class C) showed significant improvement in pre-class assessment performance.
- Student satisfaction, particularly learning interest and teaching diversity, was significantly higher in the 3D model groups (Class B and C) compared to the control group.
Conclusions:
- Three-dimensional anatomy models effectively enhance student engagement, learning efficiency, and satisfaction within a blended learning environment.
- The impact of 3D anatomy models on long-term knowledge retention and final examination performance appears limited.
- Strategic integration of 3D technologies is crucial for maximizing their educational benefits in anatomy instruction.
