The effect of stereoscopic Augmented Reality visualization on learning anatomy and the modifying effect of visual ‐spatial abilities: a double‐center randomized controlled trial

AbstractMonoscopically projected three ‐dimensional (3D) visualization technology may have significant disadvantages for students with lower visual‐spatial abilities despite its overall effectiveness in teaching anatomy. Previous research suggests that stereopsis may facilitate a better comprehension of anatomical knowledge. This stu dy evaluated the educational effectiveness of stereoscopic augmented reality (AR) visualization and the modifying effect of visual‐spatial abilities on learning. In a double‐center randomized controlled trial, first and second‐year (bio)medical undergraduates studied lower limb anatomy with a stereoscopic 3D AR model (n = 20), a monoscopic 3D desktop model (n = 20) or two‐dimensional (2D) anatomical atlas (n = 18). Visual‐spatial abilities were tested with Mental Rotation Test (MRT), Paper Folding Test and Mechanical Reasoning Test. Anatomical knowledge was assessed by the validated 30‐item paper post‐test. The overall post‐test scores in the stereoscopic 3D AR group (47.8 %) were similar to those in the monoscopic 3D desktop group (38.5 %;P = 0.081) and the 2D anatomical atlas group (50.9 %;P = 1.00). When stratified by visual ‐spatial abilities test scores, students with lower MRT scores achieved higher post‐test scores in the stereoscopic 3D AR group (49.2 %) as compared to the monoscopic 3D desktop group (33.4 %;P = 0.015) and similar to the scores in the 2D group (46.4 %;P = 0.99). Participants with higher MRT scores ...

Source: Anatomical Sciences Education - December 29, 2019 Category: Anatomy Authors: Katerina Bogomolova, Ineke J.M. van der Ham, Mary E.W. Dankbaar, Walter W. van den Broek, Steven E.R. Hovius, Jos A. van der Hage, Beerend P. Hierck Tags: RESEARCH REPORT Source Type: research