Augmented reality in anatomy: Is it all hype?

Connor S Blythe, Laura S Gregory

School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia

Objective: Augmented reality (AR) has become increasingly common in teaching complex 3D relationships in anatomy. However, most research compares AR to other technologies or as an alternate to practical resources. This study aimed to investigate the interaction of AR, quizzes and worksheets in promoting student engagement and learning in anatomy workshops.
Methods: Worksheets linking to AR activities on the anatomy of the integumentary and nervous systems were created and shared with Queensland University of Technology first-year Faculty of Health students in their workshops. Students were quizzed using MentiMeter at the start of each workshop and again directly after having the opportunity to use the AR tool on the Human Anatomy Atlas app (Visible Body) to complete the associated worksheet. Additionally, student perceptions on the use of AR in these workshops were collected through a Qualtrics survey.
Results: Surprisingly 61.7% of students surveyed (n=47) had never tried AR or tried it only once before this study. Students that completed the worksheets demonstrated a significant improvement in understanding (p < 0.001) between the pre- and post-quiz (n=114). Whilst most students agreed (66%) that the AR tool enhanced their learning, higher agreement in learning effectiveness was observed in the Human Anatomy Atlas app itself (without the AR tool; 97%), worksheets (85%) and quiz (87%).
Conclusion: The simple use of quizzes and worksheets had a positive impact on the behavioural, emotional and cognitive dimensions of learner engagement. Students perceived AR as less practical to use and not necessary in achieving their learning.

Keywords: active learning; augmented reality; learner engagement; retrieval practice; student perceptions

Ethical statement: This research was approved by the QUT University Human Research Ethics Committee (QUT Ethics approval number LR 2023 – 5407-13662). Completion and submission of the quizzes and online survey were accepted as indication of consent to participate in the research project.

Funding statement: No funding was received to undertake this research. Visible Body kindly supported a trial period of the Human Anatomy Atlas app during the semester this research was completed.