Virtual Medicine and Penn State University Enhance Human Anatomy Education with VR Integration
In Spring 2023, Penn State University’s VAR Edu Lab collaborated with Dr. Lisa Mangel, Assistant Teaching Professor of Biology, to integrate Virtual Medicine’s Human Anatomy VR into her BIOL 164: Human Anatomy and Physiology II course. This initiative aimed to provide students with an immersive learning experience, enhancing their understanding of human anatomy through virtual reality.
Implementation and Student Engagement
During the semester, three sections of the course, totaling 60 students, participated in a weekly lab session utilizing the VR technology. Students were divided into groups, with one group using the VR headsets to explore anatomical systems, while others engaged in traditional activities such as examining cadaver specimens. A comprehensive 10-minute tutorial introduced students to the VR program, followed by guided exploration of various anatomical models. In February, students focused on studying arteries and veins, and in April, they reviewed all organ systems covered throughout the semester.
The integration of VR technology provided students with a dynamic and interactive approach to learning, complementing traditional methods and enhancing their engagement with the course material.
Outcomes and Future Directions
The success of this integration led to a total of 140 VR sessions conducted during the semester. Students demonstrated increased proficiency and adaptability in utilizing the VR tools, indicating a positive impact on their learning experience. Building on this success, Dr. Mangel plans to further incorporate Human Anatomy VR in future courses, including innovative projects where students will create and annotate guided VR tours for educational purposes.
This collaboration between Virtual Medicine and Penn State University exemplifies the potential of virtual reality in transforming anatomy education, offering students an enriched and interactive learning environment.
For more information on Human Anatomy VR and its applications in educational settings contact our team.