Evolving strategies in whirlwind mode: The changing face of anatomy education during Covid-19 pandemic

Abstract

The Covid-19 pandemic stipulated adoption of unfamiliar strategies for delivering anatomy education in online mode. The factors which determine education strategies are variable across geographical regions. It was perceived that an overview of education strategies around the globe would be useful for anatomists. Hence this narrative review was undertaken to collate observations from different geographical regions pertaining to education strategies adopted during the pandemic. Data relevant to the topic of study were extracted from 12 articles that were selected from an initial pool of 317 articles based on search criteria set for the review. Subtle differences in core education strategies implied that baseline response from anatomists was similar across regions. It was evident that online digital tools were key elements of education strategies adopted by educators for delivering online anatomy classes across the globe. Interestingly, a considerable gap in terms of number and variety of online tools used for anatomy education (those requiring commercial purchase) was noted between economically developed and developing regions. This may have an impact on learning outcome for students and may even lead to variations in anatomical knowledge by regions. It was observed that offline human dissection sessions were incorporated into online practical classes in one region as positive cases showed a declining trend. This positive development is worth emulating elsewhere based on cautious assessment of prevailing situation. From a broad perspective timely introduction of education strategies ensured delivery of anatomy education during the pandemic and gave an evolved outlook to the fabric of anatomy education.

Keywords: Covid-19 pandemic; asynchronous mode; digital resources; education strategies; gross anatomy education, online curriculum; synchronous mode.

FIGURE 1

Flow chart depicting the literature search process for the present narrative review. The literature search was performed on the lines of searches for a narrative review, while incorporating the methodological rigor of a systematic review. The literature search process followed the best practice recommendations for preparing a narrative review by Ferrari (2015), in order to mitigate risk of bias during selection of literature.