A comparative study of the effect of several teaching methods in ocular anatomy

Abstract

Objective To investigate the effect of several common teaching methods in ocular anatomy course. Methods Forty-six clinical medicine students from 8-year program were enrolled and divided into three groups, 3D group, problem-based learning group and traditional model group. All three groups went through theory course and experiment practice with different teaching methods. A test of memory of ocular anatomy, a written examination and a questionnaire were conducted to evaluate each method. Results The model group had a better memory of ocular structure; the questionnaire showed that students considered PBL had the least help for their study; and PBL group had the most mistakes in written examinations. Conclusions No teaching method showed better effect than traditional model demonstration in ocular anatomy course. They had specific problems when applied in ophthalmology and may have better results with modifications. Key words: Ophthalmology; anatomy; 3D human anatomy program; Problem-based learning; Teaching effect