Collaborative use of a 3D anatomy platform to motivate and enhance anatomy learning in first-year online medical sonography students.

Abstract

Introduction: Sonography students require a deep understanding of structural anatomy, including where structures sit relative to one another. Additionally, they need to learn the complex task of identifying structures on medical images including X-rays, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasound imaging. Anatomy can be taught online, but learning can be challenging for students. Online three-dimensional (3D) anatomy platforms aid student learning, but research investigating how to use them effectively when teaching is scarce. This project evaluated the impact of incorporating a three-dimensional (3D) online anatomy platform into teaching relative structural anatomy and assist sonography students when learning how to recognise structures on medical images.

Methods: Sixty-one first-year sonography students within an articulated undergraduate and postgraduate medical sonography programme in Australia, studying anatomy online participated in this mixed methods study. The impact of using a 3D online anatomy platform on their conceptual 3D anatomy understanding of relative anatomy, development of medical image recognition skills and their learning experience was assessed via a Qualtrics survey.

Results: Students who used this platform collaboratively enhanced their relative anatomy understanding and developed the skill of identifying structures from medical images. The scaffolded use of this platform generated enquiry discussions between teachers and students and made learning anatomy online a social and enjoyable experience.

Conclusion: Collaborative and interactive scaffolded use of 3D online anatomy platforms can motivate and encourage student questions and discussions, enabling social connections and enhancing their learning experience. Student enquiry skills were developed, and the more complex task of identifying structures from medical images was made achievable.