Document Detail


Evaluation of a computer program ('disect') to consolidate anatomy knowledge: a randomised-controlled trial.
MedLine Citation:
PMID:  20218830     Owner:  NLM     Status:  MEDLINE    
Abstract/OtherAbstract:
BACKGROUND: The teaching of anatomy to medical undergraduates continues to develop. Medical imaging can accurately demonstrate anatomy. 'disect' is a computer program which manipulates and reconstructs real CT images in 3-D.
AIM: To implement and assess a novel computer-based imaging resource.
METHODS: Third-year undergraduate medical students at the University of East Anglia were randomised to different methods of delivering the program - either self-directed use or guided use with worksheets. Knowledge of gastro-intestinal anatomy was assessed using a 20-item test. Attitudes to using 'disect' were evaluated using Likert scales.
RESULTS: Most students reported the program was easy to use and a valuable resource for learning anatomy. There was no difference in scores between guided use and self-directed use (10.7 marks versus 10.6 marks, p = 0.52). Students who undertook the anatomy special study module, which involved dissection of the digestive system, performed best (12.8 marks versus 9.9 marks, p = 0.005).
CONCLUSION: Students can adequately use a computer program to see major anatomical structures derived from CT scans. Students reported that learning anatomy can be aided by the imaging-based resource. Learning anatomy is a multi-modal activity and packages like 'disect' can enhance learning by supplementing current teaching methods.
Authors:
M D B S Tam; A R Hart; S M Williams; R Holland; D Heylings; S Leinster
Publication Detail:
Type:  Journal Article; Randomized Controlled Trial    
Journal Detail:
Title:  Medical teacher     Volume:  32     ISSN:  1466-187X     ISO Abbreviation:  Med Teach     Publication Date:  2010  
Date Detail:
Created Date:  2010-03-11     Completed Date:  2011-01-13     Revised Date:  -    
Medline Journal Info:
Nlm Unique ID:  7909593     Medline TA:  Med Teach     Country:  England    
Other Details:
Languages:  eng     Pagination:  e138-42     Citation Subset:  IM    
Affiliation:
The Radiology Academy, The Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital NHS Trust, Norwich NR4 7UB, UK. mattthewtam2005@gmail.com
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MeSH Terms
Descriptor/Qualifier:
Anatomy / education*
Clinical Competence
Confidence Intervals
Education, Medical, Undergraduate / methods*
Educational Measurement
Educational Status
Gastrointestinal Tract / anatomy & histology*
Great Britain
Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
Humans
Imaging, Three-Dimensional / instrumentation*
Questionnaires
Software*
Students, Medical
Teaching
Tomography, X-Ray Computed / instrumentation*

From MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine


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