A STUDY COMPARING STUDENTS’ PERFORMANCE AND PERCEPTIONS WHEN USING STILL DIGITAL CADAVER IMAGES VERSUS COMPUTER GRAPHICS IN LEARNING HUMAN ANATOMY- A PRELIMINARY STUDY

Background:
In the recent past, numerous computer-based resources for learning anatomy and new software applications have been created. Still images of cadaveric material and graphic designs have been used in various computer-based anatomy resources. However, empirical evidence indicates that learners with poor spatial ability may be hampered severely by some types of sophisticated multimedia graphics, animations, highlighting the importance of research into the efficacy of e-learning instructional design for anatomy education.

Aim:
This study aims to investigate students’ performance and perception on e-learning resources containing digital cadaver images vs computer graphical representations.

Methods:
Two E-learning resources using digital pictures (Model A) and computer graphics (Model B) were prepared to study the “Structure of the Brain” and provided them for two groups of dental students in the first year. Both groups were assessed using theory and practical tests. After the tests, both e-learning resources were made available to all students through online and in a CD form (offline) allowing all students to see the both resources for two weeks. Perceptions of students towards two resources were assessed using a self-administered questionnaire.

Results:
Students who used the model A received higher scores than the model B for both the theory and practical tests. However, a statistically significant difference was noticed only for the practical test between two groups. The majority of students suggested that graphic pictures are ideal for identifying anatomical relations while digital pictures are good for the practical test. Further, regarding the students’ view of best picture material to learn anatomy, 11 students said “the graphic picture is good since it helps to understand the relationship between different structures of the brain” 10 students said “the digital picture is good since it is similar to the true view and helpful for the spot exam” and 7 students said “both the graphic and digital pictures are important since they can have better understanding and clear view when they use both graphic and digital pictures together”.

Conclusion:
The results suggest that both the graphic and digital pictures are necessary for learning anatomy depending on the intended outcome of students’ learning. However, further studies are necessary with larger groups of students to confirm this conclusion.