Anatomical Pedagogy for Undergraduates (A Regional Approach)

Abstract

Elon University uses the Regional Anatomical Approach in the teaching of human anatomy to undergraduates, which involves the use of both clinical correlations and cadaver dissections. Throughout the 20th century, faculties at undergraduate institutions of higher learning have preferred using the systemic approach to teaching human anatomy. This study surveyed a variety of undergraduate institutions to identify the most commonly used pedagogy for the teaching of human anatomy. The data suggest that the majority of schools who responded to the research inquiry did not have a clear understanding of the methodology involved in the Regional Anatomical Approach (RAA). These same institutions defined their approach as being more inclined toward the use of systemic human anatomy methodology. This study also evaluates the impact of the Regional Anatomical Approach on the academic performance of students at Elon University enrolled in regional human anatomy (Bio 161). These studies indicate that students involved in regional human anatomy (BIO 161) at Elon University demonstrate significant retention in learning, with minimal cost to the university. This data suggests that undergraduate students are capable of learning human anatomy using the cadaver based RAA. This study also supports the RAA as a viable, successful, and efficient method of teaching human anatomy to undergraduate students. Researchers involved in this study conclude that other undergraduate institutions would benefit from clarification and instruction in the use of the regional approach in teaching undergraduate human anatomy.