Evaluation of a computer program (‘disect’) to consolidate anatomy knowledge: A randomised-controlled trial

Abstract

Background: The teaching of anatomy to medical undergraduates continues to develop. Medical imaging can accurately demonstrate anatomy. ‘disect’ is a computer program which manipulates and reconstructs real CT images in 3-D.

Aim: To implement and assess a novel computer-based imaging resource.

Methods: Third-year undergraduate medical students at the University of East Anglia were randomised to different methods of delivering the program – either self-directed use or guided use with worksheets. Knowledge of gastro-intestinal anatomy was assessed using a 20-item test. Attitudes to using ‘disect’ were evaluated using Likert scales.

Results: Most students reported the program was easy to use and a valuable resource for learning anatomy. There was no difference in scores between guided use and self-directed use (10.7 marks versus 10.6 marks, p = 0.52). Students who undertook the anatomy special study module, which involved dissection of the digestive system, performed best (12.8 marks versus 9.9 marks, p = 0.005).

Conclusion: Students can adequately use a computer program to see major anatomical structures derived from CT scans. Students reported that learning anatomy can be aided by the imaging-based resource. Learning anatomy is a multi-modal activity and packages like ‘disect’ can enhance learning by supplementing current teaching methods.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

M.D.B.S. Tam

M. TAM MA (Oxon), MRCS, FRCR, is Specialist Registrar at the Radiology Academy at the Norfolk and Norwich Radiology Academy with an interest in medical education and is pursuing a Masters in Clinical Education at the School of Allied Health Professionals at the University of East Anglia.

A.R. Hart

A.R. HART FRCP is an Honorary Senior Lecturer in Gastroenterology at The University of East Anglia, Norwich with an interest in the design and conduct of aetiological and clinical studies in digestive diseases.

S.M. Williams

S. WILLIAMS MA (Oxon), MRCS, FRCR, is Consultant Radiologist and is currently Director of the Radiology Department at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital. He oversaw the implementation of the Radiology Academy, a purpose built unit designed for post-graduate medical education of Radiology Registrars.

R. Holland

R. HOLLAND BMBCh, DPH, PhD is Reader in Public Health Medicine. He is Health Services Researcher with a particular interest in clinical trials and systematic reviews. He is Course Director of the MBBS degree at the University of East Anglia.

D. Heylings

D. HEYLINGS MBBCh, ILTM is Senior Lecturer in Anatomy at The University of East Anglia, responsible for the anatomy curriculum. In a wider context he has a particular interest in trends in medical education, curriculum design and delivery especially concerning anatomy within the modern educational environment.

S. Leinster

S. LEINSTER FRCS (Ed), FRCS (Eng), MD, SFHEA is Professor of Medical Education and Dean of the School of Medicine, Health Policy and Practice at the University of East Anglia. His clinical discipline is Surgical Oncology.