Computer-based neuroanatomy laboratory for medical students

BACKGROUND: To present the laboratory portion of our first-semester Human Neuroanatomy course at Temple University Medical School more effectively and efficiently and to replace the glass slide/microscope-based laboratory component of the course, we developed a computer-based substitute. METHODS: For this computer-based neuroanatomy laboratory program, we photographed the (a) gross brain sliced and dissected specimens and (b) all the glass slides, from the sacral cord through the head of the caudate nucleus. We digitized the photographed images and, using Multimedia ToolBook (Asymetrix), created a computerized atlas, laboratory guide, and a clinical problem-solving section. To assess the effectiveness of the computerized laboratory, we compared student performances between those classes that previously had the traditional laboratory with two succeeding classes that used the computer-based laboratory. RESULTS: Test score results of the laboratory portion of the course suggested that performance on laboratory material was virtually unchanged by the substitution of the computer program. By a survey taken at the end of the course, the students were very satisfied with the computerized program as a teaching method. CONCLUSIONS: The students and faculty enthusiastically agreed that the computer program was an effective substitute method for the traditional glass-slide laboratory and that it was a beneficial self-educational tool that fostered independent learning. The program encouraged student interaction and group learning and fostered independence. It was a more efficient method for faculty and students without sacrificing performance.