title: Longitudinal cohort study on medical student retention of anatomical knowledge in an integrated problem-based learning curriculum.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  When modifying a curriculum to accommodate changes in the methods of subject matter presentation or fit within a shortened time frame, student retention of knowledge remains an important issue.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  This study evaluates medical student retention of anatomical knowledge as they matriculate through an anatomy curriculum where the instruction hours are less than half of the current national average.
  
  
  METHODS
  Medical students completed an assessment tool developed to evaluate their baseline level of anatomical knowledge at the beginning of the first year. They then completed the instrument at the end of their 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th years to assess their retention of anatomical knowledge during medical school. Data collection began in September 2010 and concluded in June 2015.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Results demonstrate that students began medical school with a low level of anatomical knowledge (baseline), that knowledge increased during their first year (p < 0.001), continued to increase during their second year (p < 0.001), but was over 90% maintained through years 3 and 4.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  In conclusion, an anatomy course with reduced hours (∼60), using active learning methods, contextual learning, cadaver demonstrations, increased exposure to imaging, and longitudinal reinforcement can help students build a strong foundation of anatomical knowledge.
authors: a Department of Surgery , Director of Histology at the Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University , Cleveland , OH , USA.
authors: Jennifer M
authors: JM
authors: McBride
authors: b Department of Surgery , Director of Anatomy at the Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine of Case Western Reserve University , Cleveland , OH , USA.
authors: Richard L
authors: RL
authors: Drake
mesh_terms: D000715:Anatomy / Q000193:education*; D002102:Cadaver; D003479:Curriculum; D004504:Education, Medical, Undergraduate / Q000379:methods*; D004521:Educational Measurement; D006801:Humans; D008137:Longitudinal Studies; D018794:Problem-Based Learning / Q000379:methods*; D013337:Students, Medical / Q000523:psychology*; D013997:Time Factors