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Department of Animal Science adds new virtual anatomy technology to classroom

Students in the Department of Animal Science now have access to new 3D virtual technology to study in ANS 214 lab on Domestic Animal Anatomy and Physiology.  Animal science 214 is a foundational course that students build upon throughout their coursework.

student using Anatomage technology“We are the first animal science program in the nation, possibly the world, to incorporate this state-of-the-art, cutting-edge virtual anatomy and physiology dissection table technology in the classroom by Anatomage,” said assistant professor Karl Kerns, instructor of animal science 214 lab.

Not only can students look at each major organ system, they can also watch blood flowing through the heart with heart valves opening and closing in real time, hear how to pronounce various structures, and build their confidence in identifying and referring to animal anatomy. 

The Anatomage Table has been added to the 214 anatomy and physiology lab in addition to the student’s work with actual specimens. This tool has proven to be an effective educational tool and allows students to interact with accurate anatomy details in 3D form.

Students learning and Anatomage technologyThere are many varying species digitally preloaded into the virtual dissection table ranging from pigs, sheep and cattle, to dogs, cats, and horses. Case studies are preloaded for studying varying diseases and conditions. It can also load native MRI and CT files for adding additional species and completing custom case studies.

“We are excited to adopt these new, innovative tools to further supplement the wide variety of educational methods and specimens in 214 lab while also looking at how it can benefit other courses as well,” Kerns said. “We are excited to provide a state-of-the-art educational environment and to offer hands-on learning opportunities to our students in animal science with the latest educational technology to increase learning outcomes.”

To learn more about the animal science program, please visit https://www.ans.iastate.edu/students