Teaching Anatomy in a unique setting: innovative methods to overcome challenges

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Teaching of Anatomy at the Northern Territory Medical Programme (NTMP) of Flinders University, Australia is by retaining traditional methods as well as modern techniques using the latest technology to overcome the disadvantages of distant learning. It occurs in the first two years of the medical curriculum. It is provided by lectures via video conferencing from Flinders University in Adelaide and practicals, dissections and other teaching sessions conducted in Darwin. Incorporating such remote as well as on-site teaching presents numerous challenges, requiring constant review and modification to ensure quality of training. In the dissection component, students are expected to dissect a cadaver during their first two years of learning. After evaluating student feedback, changes were introduced to the teaching methods used in this process over three years. OBJECTIVES: This study aims to assess the effectiveness of, changes introduced to the teaching methods in Anatomy in the Northern Territory Medical Programme (NTMP) of Flinders University, Australia METHODS: Changes were made in consultation with the Body Donation Programme of University of Adelaide, Audio Visual Unit of the NTMP and the curriculum committee of the University of Flinders. They included the incorporation of novel teaching methods and introducing changes to the timing of the dissection programme. Performances in Anatomy of the three batches of students at examinations and their feedback were analysed to determine the effect of these changes RESULTS: It revealed improved performances and a higher level of student satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS: Feedback from students and their performance at examinations suggest that the changes had an overall positive impact. Constant monitoring and review of teaching methods is of significant value.