Finding the Right Balance: Integrating Old and New Approaches for Anatomy Teaching

Abstract

Although anatomy is one of the core knowledge pillars within medical teaching, the level of knowledge covered in the modernized medical curriculan recent years around the world has declined considerably, due to the use of old-fashioned pedagogical methods. This study examines available approaches to anatomy teaching and how to improve student learning in this area, while also targeting higher skills and knowledge for future medical personnel. Using a mix of qualitative and quantitative methodologies to collect data, mini-interviews and online surveys were conducted with a sample of four participants (a student, a resident, and two medical educators) to explore the different aspects of anatomy learning and its key challenges. From this small sample of medical students and educators, data was collected around four key themes: fundamental introductory learning, technology-based education, teaching techniques, and updated curriculum. A thematic analysis of the participants’ insights revealed that, while technology-based alternatives were considered effective tools, dissecting cadavers was the preferred means of learning anatomy.