Learning anatomy: do new computer models improve spatial understanding?

Desktop computer models that rotate in virtual 3D space allow for many non- traditional viewpoints of objects. This study sought to determine whether p roviding more views of the carpal bones improved understanding of their spa tial characteristics. Forty-nine first-year medical students entered a rand omized controlled trial conducted over 1 1/2 hours on computer workstations . Spatial learning with a computer carpal bone model horizontally rotating at 10 degrees views (MV), was compared with the same model rotating at 90 d egrees views (KV). The main measure of spatial learning was 36 created mult iple-choice items. There were no significant differences in spatial learnin g between MV and KV. It is possible that virtual 3D models that provide mul tiple views of anatomical objects may be no more effective in teaching spat ial relationships than standard views that appear in arty anatomical atlas. The benefits of new computer models should be better outlined before more resources are spent on their development.