Ralf A Kockro1, Christina Amaxopoulou2, Tim Killeen3, Wolfgang Wagner4, Robert Reisch5, Eike Schwandt4, Angelika Gutenberg4, Alf Giese4, Eckart Stofft6, Axel T Stadie4. 1. Department of Neurosurgery, Klinik Hirslanden, Zurich, Switzerland; Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Mainz, Germany. Electronic address: ralf.kockro@hirslanden.ch. 2. Department of Radiology, Children's Hospital Zurich, Switzerland. 3. Department of Neurosurgery, Klinik Hirslanden, Zurich, Switzerland; Paraplegia Laboratory, University Hospital Balgrist, Zurich, Switzerland. 4. Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Mainz, Germany. 5. Department of Neurosurgery, Klinik Hirslanden, Zurich, Switzerland; Department of Neurosurgery, University Hospital Mainz, Germany. 6. Department of Anatomy, University Hospital, Mainz, Germany.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Three-dimensional (3D) computer graphics are increasingly used to supplement the teaching of anatomy. While most systems consist of a program which produces 3D renderings on a workstation with a standard screen, the Dextrobeam virtual reality VR environment allows the presentation of spatial neuroanatomical models to larger groups of students through a stereoscopic projection system. MATERIALS AND METHODS:Second-year medical students (n=169) were randomly allocated to receive a standardised pre-recorded audio lecture detailing the anatomy of the third ventricle accompanied by either a two-dimensional (2D) PowerPoint presentation (n=80) or a 3D animated tour of the third ventricle with the DextroBeam. Students completed a 10-question multiple-choice exam based on the content learned and a subjective evaluation of the teaching method immediately after the lecture. RESULTS: Students in the 2D group achieved a mean score of 5.19 (±2.12) compared to 5.45 (±2.16) in the 3D group, with the results in the 3D group statistically non-inferior to those of the 2D group (p<0.0001). The students rated the 3D method superior to 2D teaching in four domains (spatial understanding, application in future anatomy classes, effectiveness, enjoyableness) (p<0.01). CONCLUSION: Stereoscopically enhanced 3D lectures are valid methods of imparting neuroanatomical knowledge and are well received by students. More research is required to define and develop the role of large-group VR systems in modern neuroanatomy curricula.
RCT Entities:
INTRODUCTION: Three-dimensional (3D) computer graphics are increasingly used to supplement the teaching of anatomy. While most systems consist of a program which produces 3D renderings on a workstation with a standard screen, the Dextrobeam virtual reality VR environment allows the presentation of spatial neuroanatomical models to larger groups of students through a stereoscopic projection system. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Second-year medical students (n=169) were randomly allocated to receive a standardised pre-recorded audio lecture detailing the anatomy of the third ventricle accompanied by either a two-dimensional (2D) PowerPoint presentation (n=80) or a 3D animated tour of the third ventricle with the DextroBeam. Students completed a 10-question multiple-choice exam based on the content learned and a subjective evaluation of the teaching method immediately after the lecture. RESULTS: Students in the 2D group achieved a mean score of 5.19 (±2.12) compared to 5.45 (±2.16) in the 3D group, with the results in the 3D group statistically non-inferior to those of the 2D group (p<0.0001). The students rated the 3D method superior to 2D teaching in four domains (spatial understanding, application in future anatomy classes, effectiveness, enjoyableness) (p<0.01). CONCLUSION: Stereoscopically enhanced 3D lectures are valid methods of imparting neuroanatomical knowledge and are well received by students. More research is required to define and develop the role of large-group VR systems in modern neuroanatomy curricula.
Authors: Charlotte P R Triepels; Carlijn F A Smeets; Kim J B Notten; Roy F P M Kruitwagen; Jurgen J Futterer; Tineke F M Vergeldt; Sander M J Van Kuijk Journal: Clin Anat Date: 2019-05-31 Impact factor: 2.414