Saudi Journal of Biomedical Research (SJBR)
Volume-4 | Issue-01 | 18-25
Original Research Article
An Assessment of the Knowledge of the Divisions of Anatomy among University of Port Harcourt Anatomy Students, Nigeria
Lekpa K David, Dr. Josiah S Hart
Published : Jan. 30, 2019
Abstract
Background: This study was designed to get insight on how the knowledge, attitude and perception of anatomy students
across various divisions in the department of Anatomy, University of Port Harcourt. Important information was mapped
out during this study and this knowledge is capable of transforming the undergraduate anatomy curriculum across Nigeria
to position the students in their career and the overall development of anatomical sciences. If we want to gain a better
understanding of teaching and learning in anatomy, it may be pertinent to move beyond the question of how and consider
also the what, why and when of anatomy education. Aim & Objectives: This study was aimed at investigating the
Knowledge, Attitude and Perception of the Divisions of Anatomy among University of Port Harcourt Anatomy Students,
Nigeria. Materials & Methods: A purposive sample of 420 anatomy students from the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th year
participated in the study. Each class came together during their semester examination and a mentorship form was issued
to them to indicate the aspect of anatomy they are interested in. Data were analyzed and recorded. Results and
Discussions: The result of the study indicated that clinical anatomy had a higher percentage of 21.65%, reproductive
biology (18.47%), cell and tissue biology (9.87%), neurobiology (10.51%), physical and forensic anthropology (13.38%),
and radiologic anatomy (9.87%) while multiple selections with 21.65%. The first year students showed more interest in
Clinical Anatomy with a modal frequency percentage of 38.16% while the least percentage frequency was found in third
year class with 9.38%. Conclusion: It is glaring that we are entering a time of paradigm shift aided by new
understandings and new technologies as in all such times, views are held strongly and expressed emotionally. The
University of Port Harcourt has taken the bold step restructure her curriculum for Anatomy education to flow with the
current tide in meeting specific needs by diversifying Anatomy into divisions such as clinical anatomy, cell and tissue
biology, reproductive biology, radiologic anatomy, neuroscience, physical and forensic anthropology.