NCT06552195

Augmented Reality in Learning Anatomy: The TEACHANATOMY Randomized Cross-over Trial

Hologram-Based Augmented Reality in Learning Anatomy: The TEACHANATOMY Randomized Cross-over Trial

• Status: Not Yet Recruiting
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 300 (estimated)
• Sponsor: Balgrist University Hospital · Academic / Other
• Sex: All
• Age: 18 Years – 25 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Accepted

Summary

Cadaver use in anatomy education is undergoing several limitations in many universities, due to high costs, time constraints and supply difficulties. As alternatives to cadaver dissections, new teaching methods based on visual technologies, such as augmented reality (AR), are being implemented worldwide. Augmented reality (AR), based on virtual interactive 3-dimensional elements (holograms) overlaid in the real-world, represents a promising alternative to explore the human body. In this study, we will test the efficacy of AR as an alternative teaching method in anatomy education by comparing traditional learning methods based on 2-dimensional (2D) images, videos, and online learning programs with the novel AR learning module The primary endpoint will consist of the score in the final theoretical and practical knowledge tests, assessed at two timepoints: immediately after the study session and after 3 months. Secondary endpoints will include adverse health symptoms and user experience, assessed immediately after the study session.

Detailed description

Cadaver use in anatomy education is undergoing several limitations in many universities, due to high costs, time constraints and supply difficulties. As alternatives to cadaver dissections, new teaching methods based on visual technologies, such as augmented reality (AR), are being implemented worldwide. Augmented reality (AR), based on virtual interactive 3-dimensional elements (holograms) overlaid in the real-world, represents a promising alternative to explore the human body. In this study, we will test the efficacy of AR as an alternative teaching method in anatomy education. Our hypothesis is that learning with AR is more efficient than traditional learning methods. Preparation: We will prepare 2 fresh-frozen cadaveric specimens to allow visualization of anatomical structure of the shoulder and hips. The cadavers will be obtained from a human body donated for university teaching activities. Using a digital single-lens reflex camera, we will acquire several images. These images will be then converted into a 3D model by the ROCS team at Balgrist University Hospital and optimized for use with the Magic Leap AR headset. Procedure: Participants (approx. 300) will be randomly assigned to the AR or the traditional learning (TL) group. Each participant will learn one anatomy module with traditional learning methods, which will include books, access to websites, 3D videos, and online learning programs, and one module with the AR-based learning program. The two modules will be administered approximately 3 weeks apart. Group A: Shoulder anatomy with traditional learning methods and hips anatomy with AR based 3D program. Group B: Shoulder anatomy with AR based 3D program and hips anatomy with traditional learning methods. The primary endpoint will consist of the score in the final theoretical and practical anatomy tests, assessed at two timepoints: immediately after the study session and after 3 months. Secondary endpoints include adverse health symptoms, assessed with a Likert scale survey, and user experience, evaluated using an adapted NASA Task Load Index scale plus additional questions.

Conditions

• Augmented Reality
• Anatomy Education

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
OTHER	learning with augmented reality	Study presentation: participants will be given a 10-minute general introduction on the study followed by a 20 minutes tutorial to introduce the HoloLens 2 and the TEACHANATOMY learning platform. * Study session: The study session consists of three learning blocks of approximately 20 minutes each, plus a repetition block to assess the acquired knowledge. During the study session participants will be given no time constraints and free breaks. * Assessment test: Participants will be assessed with a 30 minutes knowledge assessment test at the end of the study and after three months. * Final questionnaire: At the end of the study session participants will be given a questionnaire to assess adverse health symptoms and user experience.
OTHER	learning with traditional methods	* Study presentation: participants will be given a 10-minute general introduction on the study followed by a presentation to introduce the study session. * Study session: The study session consists of the learning resources most used by students: specific sections from four different neuroanatomy books, access to two websites, two 3D videos, and two online learning programs. During the study session participants will be given no time constraints and free breaks. * Assessment test: Participants will be assessed with a 30 minutes knowledge assessment test at the end of the study and after three months. * Final questionnaire: At the end of the study session participants will be given a questionnaire to assess adverse health symptoms and user experience

Timeline

• Start date: 2024-10-01
• Primary completion: 2024-12-31
• Completion: 2025-12-31
• First posted: 2024-08-13
• Last updated: 2024-08-13