Rethinking Anatomy: How to Overcome Challenges of Medical Education’s Evolution

Abstract

analysing the advantages of the introduction and diversification of pedagogical approaches in Anatomy Education.Results: Anatomy Education's status quo is characterized by: less available teaching time, increasing demands from radiology and endoscopy imaging and other invasive and non-invasive medical techniques, increasing number of medical students and other logistical restrains exposed by the current Medical Education scenario. The traditional learning approach, mainly based on cadaveric dissection, is drifting to complementary newer technologies -such as 3D models or 2D/3D digital imaging -to examine the anatomy of the human body. Also, knowledge transfer is taking different channels, as learning management systems, social networks and computer-assisted learning and assessment are assuming relevant roles. Discussion: The future holds promising approaches for education models. The development of Artificial Intelligence, Virtual Reality and Learning Analytics could provide analytic tools towards a real-time and personalized learning process. Conclusion: A reflection on Anatomy Education, as a comprehensive model, allows us to understand Medical Education's complexity.Therefore, the present Medical Education context favours a blended learning approach, in which multi-modality pedagogical strategies may become the landmark.

The Role of Anatomy Computer‐Assisted Learning on Spatial Abilities of Medical Students

“…The dynamic nature of medical knowledge has been shaping medical education teaching and learning strategies (Irby et al, 2010). Indeed, the exponential evolution of medical knowledge, in particular in the biomedical and genetic fields (Schauber et al, 2013;Lehoux et al, 2016), the development of medical technology (Drake et al, 2009;Lehoux et al, 2016;Guimarães et al, 2017) as well as the implementation of patient-centered health polities (Sugand et al, 2010) have been contributing to reforms changes to the organization of the medical curricula.…”

Endoscopy simulation for pre-clerkship students

“…2 While medical students will not have the opportunity to translate endoscopic skills until a later stage of training, hands-on learning and understanding of the process of endoscopy proved to be a valuable experience. Teaching anatomy in an applied manner helps trainees contextualize basic science knowledge 6 At the University of Alberta, gastroenterology is a preclinical block with endoscopy shadowing available. Students shadow endoscopy to visually understand gastroenterology.…”

Students’ Perceptions and Usage of Short Anatomy Videos: A Preliminary Study

“…Modern technologies offer numerous possibilities for developing efficient educational resources in anatomy. This seems to be of particular importance within the constantly changing landscape of medical education in which contact hours devoted to anatomy seem to be in a steady decline (Drake et al, 2009;Louw et al, 2009;Sugand et al, 2010;Yammine, 2014;Guimarães et al, 2017). Digital media, with which modern students are so familiar and within which they "feel at home", seem to provide opportunities to fill in the possible "gaps" in delivery.…”