title: Evaluation of an online three-dimensional interactive resource for undergraduate neuroanatomy education.
abstract: Neuroanatomy is one of the most challenging subjects in anatomy, and novice students often experience difficulty grasping the complex three-dimensional (3D) spatial relationships. This study evaluated a 3D neuroanatomy e-learning module, as well as the relationship between spatial abilities and students' knowledge in neuroanatomy. The study's cross-over design divided the participants into two groups, each starting with tests for anatomy knowledge and spatial ability, followed by access to either the 3D online learning module or the gross anatomy laboratory. Participants completed a second knowledge test prior to accessing the other learning modality. Participants in both groups scored significantly higher on Quiz 1 than on the Pretest knowledge assessment (W = 47, P < 0.01; W = 30, P < 0.01). Students who initially accessed the 3D online resources scored significantly better on the Quiz 1 than students who accessed the gross anatomy resources (W = 397.5, P < 0.01). Scores significantly improved on Quiz 2 for participants who accessed the 3D learning module following exposure to the cadaveric resources (W = 94, P < 0.01). After exposure to both learning modalities, there were no significant differences between groups. Significant positive correlations were found between participants' spatial ability score and their performance on the Pretest, Quiz 1, and Quiz 2 assessments (r = 0.22, P = 0.04; r = 0.25, P = 0.02; r = 0.26, P = 0.02). These preliminary results found students appreciated working with the 3D e-learning module, and their learning outcomes significantly improved after accessing the resource. Anat Sci Educ 9: 431-439. © 2016 American Association of Anatomists.
authors.affiliation: Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.
authors.forename: Lauren K
authors.initials: LK
authors.lastname: Allen
authors.affiliation: Department of Electrical and Software Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.
authors.forename: Roy
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Eagleson
authors.affiliation: Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.|Department of Electrical and Software Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.|Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, Division of Neurosurgery, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada.
authors.forename: Sandrine
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: de Ribaupierre
mesh_terms: D004504:Education, Medical, Undergraduate / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional; D009445:Neuroanatomy / Q000193:education*; D009862:Online Systems
keywords: computer-assisted learning; medical education; neuroanatomy education; neuroanatomy virtual model; three-dimensional modeling