The use of an online anatomy laboratory for allied health education

Abstract

Background: In-person cadaveric anatomy laboratories allow for students to learn the intricacies of the human body but also develop skills related to communication, clinical reasoning, and interprofessional collaboration. However, the COVID-19 pandemic caused a shift from in-person course delivery to an online medium. Therefore, the objective of this study was to develop and evaluate the implementation and use of an online anatomy laboratory as a replacement for an in-person laboratory component. Methods: An anatomy course for allied heath students (pharmacy and respiratory therapy) that included an in-person cadaveric laboratory was modified for online delivery. The laboratory component utilized cadaveric images presented by the instructor and breakout rooms for small group discussion to simulate in-person anatomy laboratory experiences. Results: Online anatomical studies had no academic advantage or disadvantage compared to in-person instruction. Additionally, students indicated that the online laboratories were enjoyable and helpful for learning anatomy, rated the guided cadaveric image portion very highly and responded positively to the helpfulness of breakout room sessions in learning anatomy. Conclusions: Based on the results of this study, online delivery of an anatomy laboratory, that was developed to simulate important aspects of in-person learning, can act as a viable alternative-learning platform for anatomical laboratory education.

Keywords

• Anatomy
• Cadavers
• Medical education
• Online
• Virtual