The Art and Craft of Anatomy

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Bibliographic Details
Title: The Art and Craft of Anatomy
Language: English
Authors: Janet Philp (ORCID 0000-0002-6767-7548), Joan Smith (ORCID 0000-0001-6253-2801)
Source: Anatomical Sciences Education. 2025 18(12):1349-1358.
Availability: Wiley. Available from: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 111 River Street, Hoboken, NJ 07030. Tel: 800-835-6770; e-mail: cs-journals@wiley.com; Web site: https://www.wiley.com/en-us
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 10
Publication Date: 2025
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Descriptive
Descriptors: Anatomy, Human Body, Freehand Drawing, Manipulative Materials, Learning Activities, Kinesthetic Methods, Public Health, Health Education
DOI: 10.1002/ase.70020
ISSN: 1935-9772
1935-9780
Abstract: Understanding human anatomy is crucial for improving public health outcomes; however, effective methods of engaging the public in this domain remain underexplored. This report investigates four hands-on, creative, and accessible methods for enhancing anatomical knowledge during public engagement events: drawing, clay modeling, needle felting, and baking. Drawing on the principles of the Portal to Public Framework and adult learning theory, we explore how each method offers ethical and inexpensive opportunities for interactive learning, devoid of complex health, and safety and ethical concerns. Through 15 years of implementing these activities in public workshops, we demonstrate how the act of creating tangible representations of anatomical parts not only facilitates deeper understanding but also allows participants to embody the learned concepts unconsciously, aiding retention and engagement. Our findings suggest that these kinesthetic and haptic learning experiences significantly enhance the public's anatomical knowledge and engagement, offering vital insights into effective educational practices outside of formal settings. This article discusses the theoretical underpinnings and practical applications of these methods, highlighting their potential to transform public health education by making learning both accessible and impactful.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2026
Accession Number: EJ1491549
Database: ERIC
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Description
Abstract:Understanding human anatomy is crucial for improving public health outcomes; however, effective methods of engaging the public in this domain remain underexplored. This report investigates four hands-on, creative, and accessible methods for enhancing anatomical knowledge during public engagement events: drawing, clay modeling, needle felting, and baking. Drawing on the principles of the Portal to Public Framework and adult learning theory, we explore how each method offers ethical and inexpensive opportunities for interactive learning, devoid of complex health, and safety and ethical concerns. Through 15 years of implementing these activities in public workshops, we demonstrate how the act of creating tangible representations of anatomical parts not only facilitates deeper understanding but also allows participants to embody the learned concepts unconsciously, aiding retention and engagement. Our findings suggest that these kinesthetic and haptic learning experiences significantly enhance the public's anatomical knowledge and engagement, offering vital insights into effective educational practices outside of formal settings. This article discusses the theoretical underpinnings and practical applications of these methods, highlighting their potential to transform public health education by making learning both accessible and impactful.
ISSN:1935-9772
1935-9780
DOI:10.1002/ase.70020