Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are helping health and science students at the Bendigo campus of Australias La Trobe University to better understand the intricacies of human anatomy.<\/p>\n
As reported, the recently installed technology in the campus anatomy laboratory and library is being used by students studying biomedical science, dentistry, occupational therapy, physiotherapy and speech pathology, among other disciplines.<\/p>\n
Background<\/p>\n
La Trobe Vice-Chancellor Professor John Dewar said the Universitys latest investment in new technology further demonstrates the Universitys commitment to building a strong rural health workforce.<\/p>\n
There are students at the Bendigo campus who all need a deep and sophisticated understanding of the human body.<\/p>\n
These students are in new courses like the Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Medical), as well as dentistry and a suite of allied health programs.<\/p>\n
The state-of-the-art technology, combined with the newly refurbished anatomy labs, is helping students develop the knowledge and skills many will need when they start work in a rural health clinic or regional hospital after graduation.<\/p>\n
A Lecturer in Anatomy, Dr Anita Zacharias, explained that technology makes the study of human anatomy more affordable and flexible for students. Also, it makes the learning experience an enriching one.<\/p>\n
About the initiative<\/p>\n
The anatomy students already learn from working with skeletons, models, and human specimens.<\/p>\n
Adding AR and VR to the mix enables them to visualise and manipulate anatomical structures, which deepens their understanding of muscle function, and improves spatial awareness.<\/p>\n
Furthermore, this means that students can access highly detailed 3D images, clinical cases and quizzes anywhere. It may be in their homes, on public transport, or wherever they have access to a phone, tablet or computer.<\/p>\n
With AR, students can superimpose images of anatomical structures over a peer who can perform movements along with the app, to better understand muscle function.<\/p>\n
While AR is completely transportable and available 24 hours a day, VR is used on campus with University supplied headsets.<\/p>\n
The cost of using the AR technology is AU$ 10 per student, compared to more than AU$ 100 for a single textbook.<\/p>\n
Expanding reach<\/p>\n
La Trobe has invested AU$ 2.6 million this year on building and refurbishing science laboratories at its Bendigo and Albury-Wodonga campuses.<\/p>\n
This was done in part to accommodate students in the new Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Medical), which launched in 2019.<\/p>\n
Fifteen new students will start in the program across the two campuses in 2020, bringing the total number enrolled to 30.<\/p>\n
Compared to last year, first preferences through VTAC and UAC for the Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Medical) are up 56% in Bendigo, and 146% in Albury Wodonga.<\/p>\n
The selection process targets students with rural or regional backgrounds, who are seeking a career in the rural health workforce.<\/p>\n
More than 77% of students studying health-related disciplines at La Trobes regional campuses are from a rural or regional background.<\/p>\n
The AR and VR technology has been rolled out across La Trobes Melbourne, Bendigo and Albury-Wodonga campuses in recent months.<\/p>\n
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