Evaluating the effectiveness of drawing as a pedagogical tool in teaching histology and human anatomy to dental and allied health sciences: a three-year observational study

Abstract

Anatomical sciences are visual sciences that deal with the structure at gross and microscopic levels. Throughout history, drawing has served as a prominent tool for learning and teaching anatomical sciences, tracing back to notable figures such as Claudius Galen, Andreas Vesalius, Leonardo Da Vinci, and Henry Vandyke Carter’s illustrations in Gray’s Anatomy among others. In this observational pilot study span ning over three years, we investigated the efficacy of utilizing drawing as a pedagogi cal tool for learning histology and human anatomy. This study involved 201 partici pants comprising dental, and allied health sciences. Pre- and post-activity surveys were administered to asses students’ perceptions and attitudes towards incorporating draw ing as an adjunctive method for teaching and learning structural sciences, particu larly histology and anatomy. Analysis of the survey data revealed a significant level of appreciation and interest in the drawing approach, with 80% of participants expressing a positive inclination towards its future integration into educational practices. The sig nificance of drawing as a pedagogical approach for anatomical sciences, drawing upon insights from previous research and observations gleaned from our surveys. In conclu sion, on this basis we recommend further development and implementation of draw ing-based teaching methodologies in future educational contexts