Julia Egnaczyk
Pronouns: she/her
Research Mentor(s): Glenn Fox
Research Mentor School/College/Department: Division of Anatomical Science, Dept. of Surgery / Medicine
Program: CG
Session: Session 3 (11:00am – 11:50am)
Authors: Julia Egnaczyk, Cristina Prall, Glenn Fox, Kathleen Alsup
Abstract
Visual interaction with the human body is a crucial component in learning anatomical concepts, however students cannot always be in the lab to study, and many undergraduates at other institutions do not have the access to the extensive anatomical specimens collection that Michigan offers. Our research aims to understand if 3D models and other multimedia resources created by BlueLink are effective learning tools, and address the challenges of incorporating them into Michigan anatomy courses. 3D scans are produced using methods of photogrammetry, where a camera captures a series of 360 degree rotations around a specimen. These photographs are uploaded into Photocatch, a software used to create the 3D model, and then edited with Meshmixer. The models are uploaded onto the BlueLink website where they can be freely accessed by anatomy students worldwide, and they are integrated into Michigan anatomy coursework. 3D models are currently incorporated into curricula at University of Michigan’s medical school and we continue to understand the best methods of utilizing these resources in ways that are most effective for student learning. In breaking anatomical education barriers and discovering new ways to integrate these resources into courses, BlueLink has and will continue to make an extensive impact on education.
