Pipe Cleaners as a Low-Cost and Versatile Educational Tool for Teaching Vascular Anatomy

Thomas Franchi

doi:10.1007/s40670-021-01224-y

Abstract

Teaching and learning vascular anatomy can be challenging for both educators and students. Cadaveric vasculature is difficult to visualise whilst models are costly and fixed in position. This paper proposes the use of pipe cleaners as a low-cost and versatile educational tool for use by both anatomy educators and students.

Highlights

The process of both teaching and learning anatomy has been subject to scrutiny for some time, with innovative teaching methods and the incorporation of novel technologies being at the forefront of debate regarding new approaches [1]
The use of models allows for a clearer view of a structure, away from the complexity-based and ethical-based issues associated with cadavers, and gives students in all institutions the opportunity to study anatomy in a threedimensional, physical form, irrespective of exposure to dissection [3]
When students first saw these colourful models made of pipe cleaners, many reacted with interest and a sense of excitement

Summary

Introduction

The process of both teaching and learning anatomy has been subject to scrutiny for some time, with innovative teaching methods and the incorporation of novel technologies being at the forefront of debate regarding new approaches [1]. This article presents a novel educational tool for teaching vascular anatomy, which is simultaneously low cost and versatile, and can be utilised in any setting. Teaching and learning vascular anatomy, in areas of the human body with vast branching networks or where common variations can be found, can be challenging for both educators and students.

Results

Conclusion