title: Stereoscopic neuroanatomy lectures using a three-dimensional virtual reality environment.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Three-dimensional (3D) computer graphics are increasingly used to supplement the teaching of anatomy. While most systems consist of a program which produces 3D renderings on a workstation with a standard screen, the Dextrobeam virtual reality VR environment allows the presentation of spatial neuroanatomical models to larger groups of students through a stereoscopic projection system.
  
  
  METHODS
  Second-year medical students (n=169) were randomly allocated to receive a standardised pre-recorded audio lecture detailing the anatomy of the third ventricle accompanied by either a two-dimensional (2D) PowerPoint presentation (n=80) or a 3D animated tour of the third ventricle with the DextroBeam. Students completed a 10-question multiple-choice exam based on the content learned and a subjective evaluation of the teaching method immediately after the lecture.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Students in the 2D group achieved a mean score of 5.19 (±2.12) compared to 5.45 (±2.16) in the 3D group, with the results in the 3D group statistically non-inferior to those of the 2D group (p<0.0001). The students rated the 3D method superior to 2D teaching in four domains (spatial understanding, application in future anatomy classes, effectiveness, enjoyableness) (p<0.01).
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Stereoscopically enhanced 3D lectures are valid methods of imparting neuroanatomical knowledge and are well received by students. More research is required to define and develop the role of large-group VR systems in modern neuroanatomy curricula.
authors.affiliation: Department of Neurosurgery, Klinik Hirslanden, Zurich, Switzerland; Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Mainz, Germany. Electronic address: ralf.kockro@hirslanden.ch.
authors.forename: Ralf A
authors.initials: RA
authors.lastname: Kockro
authors.affiliation: Department of Radiology, Children's Hospital Zurich, Switzerland.
authors.forename: Christina
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Amaxopoulou
authors.affiliation: Department of Neurosurgery, Klinik Hirslanden, Zurich, Switzerland; Paraplegia Laboratory, University Hospital Balgrist, Zurich, Switzerland.
authors.forename: Tim
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Killeen
authors.affiliation: Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Mainz, Germany.
authors.forename: Wolfgang
authors.initials: W
authors.lastname: Wagner
authors.affiliation: Department of Neurosurgery, Klinik Hirslanden, Zurich, Switzerland; Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Mainz, Germany.
authors.forename: Robert
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Reisch
authors.affiliation: Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Mainz, Germany.
authors.forename: Eike
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Schwandt
authors.affiliation: Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Mainz, Germany.
authors.forename: Angelika
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Gutenberg
authors.affiliation: Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Mainz, Germany.
authors.forename: Alf
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Giese
authors.affiliation: Department of Anatomy, University Hospital, Mainz, Germany.
authors.forename: Eckart
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Stofft
authors.affiliation: Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Mainz, Germany.
authors.forename: Axel T
authors.initials: AT
authors.lastname: Stadie
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D003196:Computer Graphics / Q000295:instrumentation; D003198:Computer Simulation; D004501:Education, Medical / Q000379:methods; D004521:Educational Measurement; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional; D008297:Male; D009445:Neuroanatomy / Q000193:education*; D013337:Students, Medical; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013663:Teaching / Q000379:methods; D020542:Third Ventricle / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D014584:User-Computer Interface; D055815:Young Adult
keywords: Anatomical models; Dextrobeam; Medical education; Medical students; Neuroanatomy; Third ventricle; Three-dimensional; Virtual reality