Construction and Educational Impact of Plastination Models of the Limbic System, Basal Nuclei, Cerebellum, and Human Spinal Cord

Preparation and Construction of Volumetric Plastination Models of the Limbic System, Basal Nuclei, Cerebellum, and Human Spinal Cord and Evaluation of Their Educational Effects

Purpose:

This educational trial aims to assess whether plastination models for neuroanatomy training (limbic system, basal ganglia, cerebellum, spinal cord)" improve medical students' understanding of central nervous system anatomy compared to traditional educational methods. It will also evaluate student satisfaction with this teaching tool.

Key Questions:

1. Do plastination models for neuroanatomy training (limbic system, basal ganglia, cerebellum, spinal cord) enhance test scores in neuroanatomy examinations?
2. How do students perceive the educational value of these models?

Study Design:

Researchers will compare two teaching methods:

• Intervention group: Learns using plastination models for neuroanatomy training (limbic system, basal ganglia, cerebellum, spinal cord)
• Control group: Learns using standard 2D atlases, power point and plastic models

Participants will:

1. Complete a pre-intervention anatomy knowledge test
2. Attend 4 weekly neuroanatomy sessions using their assigned method
3. Take a post-intervention exam and satisfaction survey
4. Participate in focus groups about their learning experience

Inclusion Criteria:

• Medical students in their third semester of training
• Currently enrolled in neuroanatomy coursework at Isfahan University of Medical Sciences
• No prior formal training with plastinated models
• Willing to attend all study sessions for 7 weeks
• Able to complete assessments in persian

Exclusion Criteria:

• Prior experience with plastinated models
• Currently taking neuroanatomy remediation courses
• Planned absences during >20% of study sessions