Anatomy

Anatomy.tv: Changing the Face of Anatomy Education

Gross anatomy professors are becoming a rare resource according to a report by the Association of American Medical Schools. Recent advances have caused the study of anatomy to become increasingly focused on its molecular and cellular aspects. The shift means fewer students pursing graduate degrees in anatomy and going on to become anatomy professors. This alarming trend has forced medical schools to explore alternative ways to train students in this fundamental discipline.

"The most exciting development in this area is the way in which computer-based technology can serve as an adjunct to traditional teaching," says Darrell Kirch, M.D., senior vice president for health affairs and dean of the Penn State University College of Medicine. "Technology can dramatically enhance teaching, enabling students to do essentially three-dimensional simulated dissections, among other things. I don't ever see the technology totally replacing the teaching that uses the actual human body, but it will make it much more effective."

One of these technologies is An@tomy.tv. This suite of 3D interactive human anatomy models allows users to zoom, rotate and peel away layers to educate and communicate with ease. Six collections, including a newly-released systemic version, are available. Whether your curriculum emphasizes self-learning, a problem-oriented approach or life-long learning, an@tomy.tv provides the perfect complement to traditional resources like texts, lectures and cadavers.