PERCEPTION OF STUDENTS ABOUT TEACHING AND LEARNING ANATOMY AT KATHMANDU UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICAL SCIENCES

Abstract

Background: A sound knowledge of human anatomy is essential for the training of new doctors for their clinical practices. However, majority of the newly graduated medical doctors feel as their knowledge of anatomy to be inadequate for their clinical practices. Hence, the present study was aimed to evaluate the perception of students regarding teaching and learning anatomy which may help to determine the areas of strength and weakness of teaching methodology.

Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study which consisted of medical students of Kathmandu University School of Medical Sciences. A Google Form Questionnaire was developed and distributed to the students for obtaining their perceptions about teaching and learning anatomy. The students’ perceptions were collected on Likert scale questionnaire.

Results: The PowerPoint presentation was the most favourable tool for theory classes whereas cadaveric dissection was the most important tool for practical classes. Practical class was the most favourable method to understand anatomy clearly. MCQ was the best mode to evaluate knowledge and concept of anatomy for theory assessment whereas for practical assessment, gross anatomy spotter was the best mode to assess knowledge, skill and concept of anatomy.

Conclusions: The tools and methods used for teaching and learning anatomy were satisfied as suggested by majority of the students. The students also suggested that cadaveric dissection to be increased for better understanding of anatomy.