Students’ learning experiences of three-dimensional printed models and plastinated specimens: a qualitative analysis

BACKGROUND: Traditional cadaveric dissection is declining whilst plastinated and three-dimensional printed (3DP) models are increasingly popular as substitutes to the conventional anatomy teaching and learning methods. It is unclear about the pros and cons of these new tools and how they impact students’ learning experiences of anatomy including humanistic values such as respect, care and empathy. METHODS: Ninety-six students’ views were sought immediately after a randomized cross-over study. Pragmatic design was used to investigate the learning experiences of using plastinated and 3DP models of cardiac (in Phase 1, n = 63) and neck (in Phase 2, n = 33) anatomy. Inductive thematic analysis was conducted based on 278 free text comments (related to strengths, weaknesses, things to improve), and focus group (n = 8) transcriptions in full verbatim about learning anatomy with these tools. RESULTS: Four themes were found: perceived authenticity, basic understanding versus complexity, attitudes towards respect and care, and multimodality and guidance. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, students perceived plastinated specimens as more real and authentic, thus perceived more respect and care than 3DP models; whereas 3DP models were easy to use and prefered for learning basic anatomy. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12909-022-03756-2.