Paper-based radial anatomy puzzles as educational tools: A pilot study at a dental school

What was the educational challenge?: Grasping anatomical relationships remains a persistent challenge in medical education, particularly when instruction relies on traditional tools such as textbooks and static illustrations. This challenge also extends to retaining and refreshing vast amounts of anatomical relationships over time.What were the solutions and how were these implemented: We examined radial anatomy puzzles as educational physicalization-based tools that encode anatomical knowledge maps in a tangible form, consisting of concentric, rotating paper rings on which labels and thumbnails of anatomical structures are printed on each ring. By rotating and aligning these elements, users engage in hands-on construction of spatial and conceptual relationships, thereby uncovering through physical interaction the conceptual connections between anatomical landmarks and structures. The tools were positively received by students.Lessons learned and next steps: Radial anatomy puzzles can be effective, low-tech tools for reinforcing anatomical understanding and facilitating knowledge refreshing through hands-on interaction. Future work will focus on refining the physical design for greater durability and usability, disentangling the effects of active puzzle-solving from passive review of completed solutions and ensuring puzzles align with classroom-relevant teaching practices and learning needs.