The use of visualization techniques in human anatomy online teaching

This study was designed to better understand the visualization techniques used by tutors for Human Anatomy teaching in online classes. In 2020 (spring-autumn) ten tutors were interviewed at Department of Morphology. The interview questions were designed to find differences and/or similarities by comparing the answers of the tutors about use of visualization techniques in online classes. Part of the anatomic information has been conveyed through information, live drawing pictures and illustrations in slideshow presentations that have been presented to students through online class. Computer-assisted and 3D printing technologies were used to complement or replace traditional anatomy teaching in online classes. Different images of visualization techniques such as radiological computer tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) from several anatomical web links and from virtual 3D dissection table “Anatomage” were used to explain anatomical structures in human cadaveric bodies. Pre-recorded or live videos, anatomical digital atlases (“Acland’s Video Atlas”, “Complete Anatomy” from “3D4Medical”) offered a realistic visual experience of anatomy during online classes. Majority of the tutors preferred PowerPoint visualization technique in the teaching of Human Anatomy and use of plastic and/or prepared printed 3D models that played an important role to teach the students content of particular topics. These models made online classes even more interactive, especially for the purposes of giving presentations. Visual images were useful adjunct to anatomical learning in a clinical context. Tutors found useful 3D atlases in teaching about the body systems such as the muscular system, the circulatory system and respectively followed by the nervous system. Most of the tutors responded that these techniques were helpful in understanding of the more complicated anatomical structures and convenient to use. Most tutors preferred multiple techniques, but the integration of advanced technological teaching techniques motivated some tutors to move from their preferred classical tools to using modern.