ANATOMY EDUCATION IN MEDICAL CURRICULA AND ITSEFFECT ON STUDENTS' PERCEPTIONS: A SYSTEMATICREVIEW
Main Article Content
Keywords
Students, perception, medical education, anatomy, teaching methods, learning outcomes, student engagement.
Abstract
Background: Anatomy is a foundational subject in medical education, crucial for understanding the human body and developing clinical skills. With evolving educational needs, teaching methods in anatomy have shifted from traditional dissection to include modern technologies such as virtual and augmented reality. This systematic review examines students' perceptions of anatomy education in medical curricula, focusing on how teaching methodologies influence learning experiences.
Methods: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar for studies published between 2019 and 2024. Inclusion criteria were studies focusing on medical students’ perceptions of anatomy education in medical curricula using qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-method approaches. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT).
Results: Thirty-one studies were included, encompassing traditional teaching methods, technological innovations, and student-centered learning approaches. Traditional cadaveric dissection was highly valued for its immersive experience, while modern technologies like VR and AR were appreciated for enhancing visualization but were seen as supplementary. Student-centered methods such as PBL and flipped classrooms were positively perceived but highlighted the need for effective facilitation and feedback.
Conclusion: Understanding students' perceptions is crucial for optimizing anatomy curricula. A balanced approach that integrates traditional dissection with technological and student-centered innovations can enhance learning outcomes and satisfaction.
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Sobia Haris
Associate Professor, Department of Medical Education, Nowshera Medical College, Nowshera, Pakistan
Muhammad Haris
Associate Professor, Department of Anatomy, Nowshera Medical College, Nowshera, Pakistan
Munir Khan
Professor, Department of Prosthodontics, Bacha Khan College of Dentistry, Mardan, Pakistan
Farah Deeba
Assistant Professor, Department of Health Research & Development, Nowshera Medical College, Nowshera, Pakistan
Zia Ud Din
Assistant Professor, Department of Anatomy, Khyber Medical College, Peshawar, Pakistan
Muhammad Sheheryar Khan
House Officer, Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Northwest General Hospital, Peshawar, Pakistan
Muhammad Jehangir Khan
Professor, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Makka Medical Center, Nowshera, Pakistan