The cadaver anatomy lab at Old Dominion University has made a significant leap forward with its relocation to the new health sciences building. This move enhances the learning environment for physical therapy and athletic training students, providing advanced resources and facilities.
The new lab is equipped with surgical lights, high-definition cameras, and an improved ventilation system with downdraft tables, creating an advanced setting that mirrors professional medical environments. Additional upgrades include an industrial washer and dryer, discreet elevator access, and mortuary coolers for donor preservation, ensuring uninterrupted study even during donor shortages.
Faculty and teaching assistants lead dissection labs, after which students can continue their work independently. Ryan McCann, PhD, ATC, CSCS, director of anatomy and director of the athletic training program, highlighted the benefits of the new lab, saying, "The cameras allow us to pull up something a student may want to share with the class. Now all of the students can see it on a screen in front of their station," enhancing collaborative learning.
The lab also features larger spaces for group work, with each lab group assigned a station for the semester. Currently, students are studying the spine, benefiting from the dedicated and well-equipped stations. This setup allows for deeper exploration of the material and fosters a collaborative environment among peers.
In addition to the cadaver anatomy lab, the new health sciences building houses the Anatomage lab with an Anatomage table. This advanced tool offers a virtual dissection experience using a 3D model that can break down anatomical structures by system or isolate specific parts down to a millimeter. While the Anatomage table itself is not new, Dr. McCann noted, "It was tricky to get students to it from across campus. Now it's in one place," making it easier for students to access this valuable resource.
The new labs also open up opportunities for continuing education, as well as potential opportunities for undergraduate students in exercise science and biology, and high school groups with advanced science programs. This expansion underscores ODU's commitment to providing top-tier educational resources across disciplines.
As we prepare for the official grand opening in August, the excitement among faculty and students continues to build. The new anatomy and cadaver lab represents a significant step forward in health sciences education at Old Dominion University, offering students an unparalleled learning environment equipped with the latest technology and resources.