Teaching of human anatomy: a role for computer animation

Computer-assisted learning fulfils an important need for pictorial representation of the functions of organs and systems. The various computer techniques of animation and morphing provide promising horizons for medical educational technology. Image acquisition is one of the most resource-intensive components of animation sequence development. Images can be drawn as originals or can be copied/scanned from various sources. By standardizing the initial (starting) image to the particular/basic need of the teacher and projecting the end-point image by using a vector animation package, 'films' can be created to demonstrate any form of movement. In the Anatomy Department, Sultan Qaboos University in Muscat, computer-animated tutorials are being introduced to illustrate normal and abnormal functional anatomy. The heart and its valve mechanisms have been selected as a pilot study. The student response is very positive and the technique has great potential. Embryology animations showing the formation and growth of organs such as the brain and spinal cord are also being developed.