XRC Anatomy Trainer

Interactive Learning of Human Anatomy

  • Fachhochschule Joanneum
  • WIFI Steiermark

The XRC Anatomy Trainer is an immersive Virtual Reality (VR) application that is transforming the way human anatomy is taught and learned. This innovative solution allows users to interactively explore anatomical structures such as muscles, bones, and organs. By incorporating mini-games and gamification, complex content is delivered in an engaging and playful manner, all within a safe virtual environment. The XRC Anatomy Trainer enhances the transfer of knowledge from theory to practice and enables efficient tracking of learning progress through integrated learning analytics.

Mastering human anatomy presents a significant challenge due to its complexity. Traditionally, this knowledge is taught through lecture-based methods, which rarely provide deep, hands-on learning experiences. Such approaches often make it difficult for learners to retain information over time. Furthermore, the sheer variety of anatomical structures requires a flexible, detailed, and practice-oriented learning platform to effectively support the learning process.

The XRC Anatomy Trainer provides an interactive learning platform that simplifies anatomical education through simulation-based methods and rich visualisations. Learners can explore specific areas of anatomy, including muscles, organs, bones, and nerves, through four targeted mini-games. The flexible VR environment and intuitive user interface allow for customisable content delivery, helping to maximise individual learning success. This innovative blend of gamification and learning analytics not only promotes playful learning but also ensures sustainable knowledge retention.

92.7% of the 96 nursing students surveyed expressed a desire to integrate the VR application into their learning, and 85.4% rated the experience as good or very good. An initial comparison of learning outcomes revealed a significant improvement in grades, a clear indicator that immersive learning enhances memory retention. In expert interviews, additional praise was given to the intuitive controls, interactive exploration of anatomical structures, and the motivating learning elements.