Student Perceptions of Neuroanatomy Study Aids

Objective. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of neuroanatomy study aids. Background. As scientific knowledge expands, time in the curriculum for basic sciences is decreasing. To maximize student efforts, study aids were provided for students (n=177) in Optometry (n= 104), Physical Therapy (n=43) and Occupational Therapy (n=29). Results. Many students did not take advantage of the practice practical (46%). Those who did said it was only somewhat helpful (29%). The majority of students attended the lab review (87%) and found it very helpful (41%) or somewhat helpful (40%). Most students (82%) used the review workbook, both the practice questions as well as the keywords (50%). However some students just used the practice questions (28%). In contrast, almost the entire class used the anatomy department website and found it very helpful (92%). Conclusion. The practice practical required students to return to the lab. The lab review meant additional lecture time. However, the website gave students 24 hour access to view lab specimen. Most importantly, they were able to review and learn the material at their own pace, outside of class, at their convenience. The results showed that this generation of learners prefers using a website over traditional study aids. Future studies should focus on developing a state of the art website to maximize student learning of neuroanatomy.