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The Human Canvas: the use of innovative education approaches in rural Australia

Research output: Other contribution to conferenceAbstractpeer-review

Abstract

Objectives.
Although the use of human prosections is invaluable for learning anatomy, this can be complemented with innovative approaches that are pro-active, non-didactic, “hands-on”, engaging, experiential and fun. This includes the use of whiteboards, Play-Doh, movements and surface anatomy. Body painting (BP) is the most popular, engaging and experiential approach for students to learn surface anatomy and physical examination skills that are important for future health professionals.
Methods.
Innovative approaches, including BP, were used at three Regional Universities in Australia – University of Newcastle, James Cook University in Townsville/Cairns and Charles Sturt University (CSU) and one Metropolitan (RMIT). At CSU in 2020, anatomy was delivered exclusively online using pre-recorded videos and encouraging students to use innovative learning approaches at home. Students were surveyed regarding their experiences with innovative approaches.
Results.
BP activities produced high-level bonding and interaction with peers and tutors as they were engaged in meaningful, collaborative learning activities that provided motivation and enjoyment and development of their ‘learning-how-to-learn’ skills. Online students were also very receptive to the innovative learning challenge while in self-isolation and lockdown.
Conclusions.
BP is a motivating and creative experience for students in both rural and metropolitan settings that provides memorable visual images and encourages multisensory and active participation. Students become pro-active, confident and self-directed learners and BP activities help students to integrate knowledge, reach a deeper understanding and remember their anatomy.
The inclusion of BP in Anatomy teaching provides new perspectives towards teaching anatomy to students who prefer hands-on, visual, kinaesthetic and/or group learning activities.
Ethical Approval and funding: RMIT Human Ethics Committee (ASEHAPP 16-13); JCU School of Medicine, RMIT University STeLR Grant.
Original languageEnglish
Pages15-16
Number of pages2
Publication statusPublished - 04 Dec 2024
EventAustralian and New Zealand Association of Clinical Anatomists Conference 2024: ANZACA 2024 - Dubbo RSL, Dubbo, Australia
Duration: 03 Dec 202405 Dec 2024
https://anzaca.org/conference/
https://anzaca.org/conference/registration/anzaca2024-programme-draft/ (Program)

Conference

ConferenceAustralian and New Zealand Association of Clinical Anatomists Conference 2024
Abbreviated titleInclusive Anatomy - Rural and Indigenous
Country/TerritoryAustralia
CityDubbo
Period03/12/2405/12/24
OtherANZACA is delighted to announce that the 21st annual conference will be held from Tuesday 3rd to Thursday 5th of December 2024 in Dubbo NSW, in the beautiful Tubba-Gah Country of the Wiradjuri Nation.

The meeting theme is Inclusive Anatomy, and we will include sessions dedicated to rural and Indigenous Anatomy presentations.
Internet address

UN SDGs

This output contributes to the following UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

  1. SDG 4 - Quality Education
    SDG 4 Quality Education

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