Anatomy teaching stuck in time? A 10-year follow-up of anatomy education in Australian and New Zealand medical schools

Abstract

Objectives To detail how human anatomy is currently being taught and assessed in Australian and New Zealand medical schools. Methods Medical schools in Australia and New Zealand were invited to respond to an online survey of their teaching and assessment of human anatomy in the 2018 academic year. The results are compared with 2008 data. Changes in curricula and teaching methods are reported. Results Despite robust media and academic discussion over the last decade, very little has changed in the amount of anatomy teaching or assessment of anatomy in Australasian medical schools. One exception is that most universities have invested in new technology for teaching; however, the use of new technologies is irregular. Conclusions Australian and New Zealand medical schools should actively and cohesively respond to the changing requirements for anatomy education, or risk being left behind our international counterparts in the provision of anatomy education, to the detriment of doctors’ training and the healthcare system.