Abstract
A brief description is presented of an integrated approach in the emerging pedagogy of human anatomy instruction that incorporates elements of both classical didactic classroom and small group virtual instruction in human anatomy, neurobiology and pathophysiology and culminates in an advanced cadaveric dissection exercise using fresh, unembalmed cadavers in a small group, surgical theatre setting. The small group cadaveric demonstrations and discussions focus not only on classical structural and diagnostic nomenclature but also include patient oriented medical and surgical techniques and procedures, in addition to topics of pathophysiologic and biomedical significance. The integrated sequence, where class size is necessarily progressively staged downward from larger classroom settings to the small group mentored cadaveric setting capitalizes on the strengths of each instructional component, and encourages greater instructor-student interactions at each level. The structured approach fosters effective student retention of anatomic concepts programmed toward essential later modules in basic and clinical science years and assures physician and scientist competency to standard upon completion of their academic studies. Thus, the purpose of the current review was to improve the effectiveness and student comprehension of anatomy instruction by incorporating emerging technological advancements including virtual, computer assisted modules and focused, small group cadaveric dissections from a pathophysiology perspective into the instructional format. This modernized pedagogical approach was universally well accepted by medical and graduate students in attendance.