Developing an HTML5 Neuroanatomical Learning Tool for the Computer, Tablet and Smartphone

Abstract

In order to meet the medical neuroscience laboratory educational needs in a revised and condensed curriculum, an HTML5 interactive neuroanatomical learning tool is being developed and tested for use in an integrated neuroscience laboratory. The learning tool is available online for student use and facilitates learning neuroanatomical structures, structural relationships, significant morphological and functional features of the human central nervous system, and the clinical relevance of the neuroanatomical structures. Gross images of intact and dissected brains, thick and stained thin brain sections, thin stained brainstem and spinal cord sections, and MR images are available for study. Neural structures to be identified are listed on the right‐hand side of the screen. Clicking on the name of a specific structure produces a transparent overlay of that structure. Structures can be identified also by moving the pointer over the image and clicking on a specific structure. With either approach, the structure is identified by a colored overlay and a collapsible dialog box at the bottom of the screen providing a brief description of the structure and its functional role in the nervous system. A student can scroll from one image to another. A glossary of neuroanatomical terms used in the program allows the student to select and view the neuroanatomical structures in the gross and sectioned specimens, and the MR images. Student comments indicate that this is an efficient and effective way to learn the neuroanatomical and functional aspects of the nervous system available online at the student's convenience. The computer‐assisted learning tool accomplishes our neuroscience laboratory goals.