Extraocular Skeletal Muscle-Induced Eye Movements (Out of Print)

Abstract

Abstract This resource is an interactive computer-based tutorial developed to simulate eye movements provoked by the contraction of individual and synergic extraocular skeletal muscles. The objective for creating the courseware was to stimulate self-directed and problem-based local and distance learning. The courseware is user friendly and achieves a dimension that cannot be attained with conventional textbooks. It complements didactic and practical (dissection) activities of beginner health professional students enrolled in human structure. The tutorial begins with the eyeball positioned at rest and provides learners with the option of visualizing individual and synergic extraocular muscle actions. Students manipulate the appropriate elements on the computer screen to elicit a response. Since implementation of the courseware in 2001, 8% more students score correct answers on written exam questions. Organizing extraocular eye movement into a discrete tutorial is highly effective in teaching learners a large volume of information without overwhelming them all at once. Exposing preclinical students to an interactive module motivates learning and enhances retention and confidence. These observations are supported by recent improvements in learner performance on block and subject shelf exams.

Keywords

• Eye
• Extraocular
• Rectus
• Oblique