Medical student perception of problem topics in anatomy

Objective: To examine the existence of perceived problem topics/concepts in anatomy, possible reasons for the problems and also student suggestions for alleviating the problems. Design: An open-ended questionnaire. Setting: School of Anatomical Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa. Subjects: Two hundred and fifty nine second year medical students. Main outcome measures: The questionnaire included identification of problem areas, reasons for problems and possible solutions. Results: The survey revealed a wide range of problem topics, with the majority being experienced in gross anatomy followed by histology and embryology. It was clear that the students experienced difficulties with 3-dimensional conceptualization and the visualisation of structures. Conclusion: A variety of teaching aids may help in addressing this problem and encourage spatially oriented thinking, leading ultimately to an integrated and in-depth understanding of anatomy. (East African Medical Journal: 2002 79(8): 408-414