Creating three-dimensional anatomy models: effects on different aspects of learning anatomy

Purpose: Learning anatomy in traditional and modern procedures is based on three-dimension visualization and spatial ability. Hands-on learning in undergraduate students promote learning and increases their skills. Therefore, for enhancing the anatomical concept and ability of students` skills, the undergraduate medical students create and print 3D anatomical models. Methods 67 medical students participated, forming two groups. The experimental group created handmade models of the gastrointestinal system and the control group received routine lectures and practical lessons in our anatomy laboratory. They were asked to fill in the motivation questionnaire at the onset of the project as a pretest, after six months, as a posttest and for one year as a follow-up. The anatomy scores and general opinion of anatomy classes were evaluated. Different criteria were designed for evaluating handmade models, scanned, selected models and final three-dimension prints. Results The results indicated significant differences in posttests of performance goals. Anatomy scores of the gastrointestinal subject were higher for the students who prepared models for some gastrointestinal subjects. Students’ opinion of general anatomy classes where handmade models were used show that not only did they find classes more interesting and enjoyable, but the visualization also enhanced their learning ability and was more effective than lectures. Conclusion It was concluded that practical handmade model activities enhance three-dimension visualization in undergraduate students’ spatial ability for learning anatomy.