Looking Closely at the Human Experience: Visual Art-Based Exercises in Preclinical Neuroscience Education
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Published on: February 16, 2011
Tamara B Kaplan1,2, Michael Stanley3,4, Christine M Bentley5,6
1Department of Neurology, Mass General Brigham Inc, Boston, MA 02115 USA.
Background:
Preclinical neuroscience often feels abstract, contributes to neurophobia, and may obscure the patient experience. Visual arts-based learning may strengthen observation and interpretation.
Activity:
We integrated gamified, visual arts-based exercises into readiness assessment questions in a required six-week preclinical neuroscience course for 172 s-year medical students.
Results & Discussion:
All students completed the exercises. Of 123 survey respondents, 43% agreed the activities promoted novel thinking and engagement. Narrative comments highlighted emotional impact, interdisciplinary appreciation, enjoyment, and opportunities for refinement. This feasible approach may support more observational, interpretive, and human-centered neuroscience learning.
