Overview

Hello!

This blog was created not only to share fun and interesting science news and pictures, but also to further the use of technology in the classroom. I believe that if used correctly, technology does not have to only be used outside of the classroom, but can be integrated into the classroom to bring a more enriching experience to the students of tomorrow. With the pace at which technology is evolving, there is no way that every classroom teacher can keep up to date on every advance, so we at UC Irvine are trying to make it a little easier on you and test-drive the technology to save time!

In this blog I will specifically explore the use of Online Dissections in the classroom.

What are online dissections?

Online Dissections are a cheaper, cleaner way to dissect animals and learn about anatomy and physiology in the classroom. Interactive dissections often allow students to preform the dissection as they would do in the classroom, such as holding the scalpel using the mouse and making the cuts as if it were in front of them. This is not to be confused with online dissection guides which simple provide the how-to steps of a dissection and are not interactive. Virtual dissections are no longer limited to the computer, but can also be enacted over apps on tablets if the technology is available in the classroom. 


How effective are Online Dissections?*

According to a 2001 study [1] on the differences between real and virtual dissections, there was little to no difference in the effectiveness of the two practices in terms of how well the students understood organ function. The authors therefore encourage virtual dissections since it does not take away from science learning: the authors also argue that the virtual dissections present the material in a different fashion and allows for presentation of material which caters to a different spectrum of learning needs. Students who are dubious of their ability to work with animal tissue are still able to explore the dynamics of animal anatomy. 

What are the advantages?*

According to Digital Frog International [2], an online based program that offers virtual software that explores the anatomy and physiology of frogs through virtual based explorations and dissections, the following are the advantages to a virtual lab.
1. Little to no preparation time
2. No clean up time
3. No disposal of bio waste cost
4. Cost of materials overall significantly less and can be reused in each class over the years
5. If student misses the class, they can do the lab at home
6. The lab can be done in several sittings and therefore more time to discuss and analyze
7. Avoid ethical and legal concerns
8. Avoid working with sharps and hazardous materials

Where can I find interactive Online Dissections? 

You can find them all over the internet! There are paid ones and free ones. The paid ones have an overall high quality and are suggested for classroom lessons, but the free ones can be utilized just as well. This website will go over a few free online dissections and point you in the right direction for more opportunities to interact with this technology!



*excerpts from UCI wiki