European Youth 3D Anatomical Modeling Platform

<< Background >>This project focuses on the growing importance of 3D anatomical modeling for various sectors, including healthcare and education. The project acknowledges the following needs:•Increased employability for young people: Equipping young people with 3D modeling skills can benefit various sectors like health simulations, surgical training, and educational games.•Improved anatomy education: Traditional methods like cadaver dissection are declining due to cost, time constraints, and focus on early clinical exposure.•Effective use of learning time: Medical knowledge is rapidly expanding, but student learning time is limited. New, efficient teaching methods are needed.•Standardized and personalized learning materials: Anatomy education varies across institutions and countries. The project aims to create a standardized yet adaptable learning platform.•Integration of digital learning: The project aims to leverage the importance of digitization and remote learning methods in anatomy education, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic.It addresses the need for efficient anatomy education tools by utilizing 3D modeling technologies and creating a multi-centered, multidisciplinary platform accessible across different institutions.<< Objectives >>We aimed to:1.Digitize Existing Knowledge: We wanted to convert existing knowledge about 3D anatomical modeling and its processes into a digital format.2.Enhance Digital Readiness in Education: We wanted to increase the capacity and readiness of educational institutions to adopt digital learning methods effectively.3.Promote Purposeful Technology Use: We aimed to encourage the use of digital tools for teaching, learning, assessment, and engagement across education, training, youth, and sports sectors.4.Develop Digital Pedagogy: We wanted to equip educators with the skills and knowledge to integrate digital tools and methods into their teaching practices, including accessible and assistive technologies.5.Create Innovative Digital Content: We aimed to develop innovative and engaging digital content for anatomy education.6.Empower Young People: We wanted to equip young people with the skills and knowledge of 3D anatomical modeling to prepare them for careers in healthcare, serious games, gamification, and other related fields.7.Foster Innovation and Entrepreneurship: We aimed to encourage young people to take initiative and become entrepreneurs in the field of 3D anatomical modeling and its applications.<< Implementation >>Our project implementation involved a series of activities across three main stages:Stage 1: 3D Model Creation•Data Acquisition: We used various methods to gather data for creating 3D models:oLaser scanning real anatomical specimens.oUtilizing existing radiological images (DICOM format) and processing them with software like OsiriX, Mimics, Horos, and Medical IP.oAccessing open-source model databases for relevant anatomical models.oEmploying photogrammetry techniques to create 3D models from photographs.•3D Modeling Software: We utilized software like Qlone to process the acquired data and generate high-quality 3D virtual models.•3D Printing: Based on specific course or curriculum needs, we selected models for 3D printing using appropriate printers.Stage 2: Digital Learning Integration•Learning Platform Integration: We integrated the created 3D models into existing digital learning platforms like Skatchfab, Moodle, and Blackboard. This allows for easy access and interaction with the models by students.•Interactive 3D PDFs: We explored the creation of 3D PDFs that combine the 3D models with additional information such as text, pictures, and schematic drawings. This provides a richer learning experience.Stage 3: Evaluation and Impact Assessment•Learning & Teaching & Training Activities: We implemented various activities to evaluate the effectiveness of using 3D models in learning anatomy. These activities may include lectures, workshops, and student exercises.•Scoping Review Approach: We conducted a scoping review to gather and analyze existing research on the impact of 3D models in anatomy education.•Questionnaires and Additional Data Collection: We used questionnaires and potentially other data collection methods to assess the impact of 3D models on the learning experience of young participants.<< Results >>Our project achieved three key results:1.Development of a 3D Anatomy Model Library:oWe created a collection of high-quality 3D virtual models of anatomical structures.oThis library was built using various methods like laser scanning, processing radiological images, and leveraging open-source models.oSome models were 3D-printed to complement the virtual collection and cater to specific teaching needs.2.Integration of 3D Models into Digital Learning Platforms:oThe project successfully integrated the developed 3D models into popular learning platforms like Skatchfab, Moodle, and Blackboard.oThis integration allows educators to easily incorporate interactive 3D models into their courses, enhancing the learning experience for students.3.Evaluation of the 3D Learning Approach:oWe implemented a Learning & Teaching & Training activity to assess the effectiveness of using 3D models for teaching anatomy to young learners.oA scoping review was conducted to analyze existing research on the impact of 3D models in anatomy education.oQuestionnaires and potentially other data collection methods were used to evaluate the impact of the 3D models and platform on student learning.