Kinesiology Student’s Perceptions of 3D Applications for Human Anatomy Learning

Abstract

Introduction: In a private university, some strategies were proposed to reduce dropout levels at the introductory courses, through innovations in subjects with a high number of topics that show low academic performance. The use of 3D applications for human anatomy learning was proposed in a Kinesiology and Physiatry degree, with a teaching strategy based on international recommendations for 3D anatomy learning -such as the benefit of canonical planes and spatial orientation references- and in suggestions for collaborative learning.

Objective: Exploring Kinesiology Student’s perceptions of 3D aplications for human anatomy learning through a metacognitive collaborative teaching strategy.

Method: Exploratory study. TAM technology acceptance questionnaire in Google Forms to 60 students of introductory course of Kinesiology and Physiatry. The main variables are perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness.

Results: The results of the survey indicated a high general acceptance of both applications. The perceived utility is favorable in 82% and very favorable in 18%. The perceived ease of use is favorable at 72% and unfavorable at 28%. Some preference was shown for Visible Body in the opinion poll (83.33% vs. 16.67%).

Conclusions: There is an overall positive perception of the application manipulation with such a strategy. Given the high probability of future use, further studies are feasible to investigate the relationship between learning anatomical concepts and the use of 3D applications.