Main Article Content
Medical student perception of problem topics in anatomy
Abstract
Objective: To examine the existence of perceived problem topics/concepts in anatomy, possible reasons for the problems and also student suggestions for alleviating the problems.
Design: An open-ended questionnaire.
Setting: School of Anatomical Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
Subjects: Two hundred and fifty nine second year medical students.
Main outcome measures: The questionnaire included identification of problem areas, reasons for problems and possible solutions.
Results: The survey revealed a wide range of problem topics, with the majority being experienced in gross anatomy followed by histology and embryology. It was clear that the students experienced difficulties with 3-dimensional conceptualization and the visualisation of structures.
Conclusion: A variety of teaching aids may help in addressing this problem and encourage spatially oriented thinking, leading ultimately to an integrated and in-depth understanding of anatomy.
(East African Medical Journal: 2002 79(8): 408-414)
Design: An open-ended questionnaire.
Setting: School of Anatomical Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
Subjects: Two hundred and fifty nine second year medical students.
Main outcome measures: The questionnaire included identification of problem areas, reasons for problems and possible solutions.
Results: The survey revealed a wide range of problem topics, with the majority being experienced in gross anatomy followed by histology and embryology. It was clear that the students experienced difficulties with 3-dimensional conceptualization and the visualisation of structures.
Conclusion: A variety of teaching aids may help in addressing this problem and encourage spatially oriented thinking, leading ultimately to an integrated and in-depth understanding of anatomy.
(East African Medical Journal: 2002 79(8): 408-414)
