Transforming anatomy from a first-year headache to many students’ favourite subject

First published at Shaping Australia Awards by the University of South Australia

Anatomy is widely recognised as one of the most challenging subjects for first-year allied health students. As the subject is essential to future careers in high-demand areas such as occupational therapy and physiotherapy, the University of South Australia has developed a novel teaching method to help students succeed in this challenging, but essential, subject.  

The team's approach has three dimensions. Firstly, they have adopted a dynamic, personal and engaging method of delivering classes, where fun and learning happily co-exist.  

Secondly, they have gone to great lengths to ensure their learning environment is comfortable and human-focused.  

And thirdly, they have created a unique peer tutoring program, in which students who have previously completed the anatomy course support first-year students. Assessment of the program, published in the Journal of Allied Health, found it has delivered outstanding benefits for first-year students, while also providing benefits for peer tutors, including entry into the academic profession for some.