Level of Education of Students Involved

Graduate

Faculty Sponsor

Dr. Evan Lines

College

College of Nursing & Health Professions (CONHP)

Discipline(s)

Occupational Therapy Education

Presentation Type

Poster Presentation

Symposium Date

Spring 4-30-2026

Abstract

Anatomy education is often required for healthcare professionals in their specialized programs. Occupational therapy programs often utilize anatomy in their coursework, however, there is high variability across programs in instruction techniques, content areas, and overall course format. These programs have a variety of teaching methods ranging from typical lecture style to lab experiences including dissection/prosection or digital tools, such as virtual reality and the Anatomage Table. A review of the literature provides background information on multiple approaches that enhance anatomy education, student engagement and outcomes, technology used, education in occupational therapy, and clinical experiences. The study aims to explore occupational therapy, students' perceptions and lived experiences of their anatomy course, focusing on its role in preparation for clinical practice while identifying effective teaching methods and considerations for educators to improve anatomy based content. This study utilized a mixed methods design consisting of a survey of students’ perceptions on their anatomy course. The participants were enrolled in a graduate level occupational therapy program within the state of Indiana. There were a total of 17 respondents from three different universities. The results discovered that anatomy education has improved students’ confidence levels for clinical application. Body systems covered by all students included the skeletal and muscular systems. Analysis of the short answer responses revealed the value of cadaver-based learning, importance of clinically applied content, and need for enhanced technological support.

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