Students' perception on anatomy education in Cyberjaya University College of Medical Sciences, Malaysia

Abstract

Introduction: Anatomy education faces continuous debate about the best teaching methods to maximize learning as sufficient knowledge of anatomy is crucial for safe and efficient clinical practice. This study was conducted to explore students' perceptions about learning anatomy by focusing around six major topics: (i) the importance of anatomy in medical school, (ii) factors influencing students' performance in anatomy, (iii) anatomy teaching methods, (iv) continuous assessment in anatomy, (v) the clarity of learning outcomes, and (vi) students' suggestions to improve anatomy learning. Material and Methods: A total 183 medical students from year 1 to year 5 currently studying in Cyberjaya University College of Medical Sciences participated in the survey. This study involved collecting data through the Anatomy Education Questionnaire via online survey link. Results: There is a general awareness among all students regarding the importance and relevance of anatomy, i.e., to be a safe and competent doctor (80.7%) and to be able to perform invasive procedures and surgeries on patients (79.1%). Majority of students feel that inadequate assessments (59%), integrated curriculum (53%), and inappropriate teaching methods (31%) are the major factors that influence students' performance in anatomy. Teaching anatomy via cadaveric dissection (72.2%) is the most preferred study tool whereas traditional lectures (29.9%) are the least preferred methods among the students. Majority of students (97.3%) agree that having more continuous assessments helps them identify their weaknesses in anatomy. Discussion and Conclusions: This study suggests the necessity for some educational refinements to improve anatomy learning by fostering deeper approaches via clinical integration of the subject and utilization of anatomy videos.