1 - Impact of Graduate-level Anatomy Outreach Program on High School and Undergraduate Students

Poster Board Number: 1
There are separate poster presentation times for odd and even posters.
Odd poster #s – first hour
Even poster #s – second hour

Co-authors:

Ciana Diaz, SPT - University of Central Arkansas; Kyler Hulsey, SPT - University of Central Arkansas; Kaylee Miller, SPT - University of Central Arkansas; Lara Davis, PT, PhD - Assistant Professor, Physical Therapy, University of Central Arkansas

Abstract Body : Introduction and Objective

Student participation in interactive outreach programs focusing on anatomy has been shown to have a positive impact on learning and medical career aspirations. Current research has not investigated combined outreach experiences with hands-on activities related to physical therapy (PT). The aim of this study was to analyze the impact of an anatomy outreach program utilizing cadavers as instructional aids on perceptions of high school and undergraduate learners surrounding cadaver labs, future career aspirations, and the field of PT.



Methods and Materials

The Anatomy Outreach Program was held at the Physical Therapy Center and Gross Anatomy lab on the campus of a public higher education institution. PT students provided information pertaining to PT skills and led hands-on activities in the cadaver lab with donor specimens. During the two-part program, learners were allowed to ask the graduate students questions about the PT program as well as the admission process for undergraduate and graduate school. Pre- and post-survey data were collected using questions developed from the literature.



Results

Post-survey data revealed increased interest in going into a medical field. Participants’ favorite experiences were in the cadaver lab and talking with PT students about the profession. Participants also reported their biggest takeaways from the program were appreciation for the cadaver lab and anatomy education, learning and appreciating the field of PT, and affirming interests in the medical field.



Conclusion

The Anatomy Outreach Program had a positive impact on high school and undergraduate learner perceptions of cadaver labs, future career aspirations, and the field of PT.



Significance/Implications

The Anatomy Outreach Program provided an interactive opportunity for learners to reflect upon a new experience as they progress through their high school and undergraduate education. Data from this program suggest high school and undergraduate students enjoyed interactions with physical therapy students and engaging in hands-on activities related to the field of PT and anatomy. Expanding outreach programs to include interprofessional experiences may also be valuable to increasing high school and undergraduate student interest in anatomy and health professions.