Treffer: From Cadaver Dissection to Digital Anatomy: Benefits of Multi-Dimensional Learning Modalities.

Digital anatomy programs such as the Primal Program™, BodyViz™, Complete Anatomy™, or Cengage™, provide rich learning opportunities with the ability to remove anatomical layers, highlight specific structures, and rotate images. However, supporting the diverse learning styles of today's anatomy students requires more than access to digital learning tools. This article describes sequential changes made in an anatomy course for a doctor of physical therapy (DPT) program. The DPT program moved from cadaver dissection to digital anatomy in the years 2020 - 2023. The most significant change was moving from the cadaver table, where there was rich student engagement during dissection, to a robust digital program with less student interaction and more screen learning. Throughout this transition, additional learning modalities were added. Tutorial stations were the most effective learning modality developed. At each station, faculty taught a focused topic (e.g. rotator cuff muscles), using multiple modalities such as a mounted skeleton, digital program, and Therabands™ to simulate muscles. Students learned how to integrate modalities and benefited from active engagement as faculty asked questions. These tutorial stations reinstated the learning environment of the cadaver tables and were optimal when students were allowed as much time as needed to gain confidence at each station. A post-survey sent to all enrolled students in the course each year identified the tutorial stations as the most preferred learning modality in 2023. To summarize, moving to a digital learning paradigm benefits from creative problem solving and persistent effort to support diverse student learning styles and student engagement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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