Rana A. Elbeshbeishy

Dr. Rana A. Elbeshbeishy


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

2Years (2025-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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3 June 2025 in BMC Medical Education
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
RERana A. Elbeshbeishy
Rana A. Elbeshbeishy
RSRasha Aziz Attia Salama
Rasha Aziz Attia Salama
MGManjunatha Goud
Manjunatha Goud
RBRasha Babiker
Rasha Babiker
JMJhancy Malay
Jhancy Malay
TMTarig Hakim Merghani
Tarig Hakim Merghani
Background: Cadaveric dissection has long been a cornerstone of anatomy education, offering unparalleled hands-on experience that fosters both intellectual and emotional growth in medical students. It plays a crucial role in shaping professional identity while enhancing anatomical understanding. However, the emergence of digital platforms, including virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and 3D modeling, presents new opportunities to transform anatomy education. Objectives: This study explores the perceptions of medical and health sciences students at Ras Al Khaimah Medical and Health Sciences University (RAKMHSU) regarding the integration of digital tools alongside traditional cadaveric dissection. By comparing attitudes toward these approaches, the study aims to identify strategies like using 3D models, animations, and interactive apps to familiarize students with anatomical structures before entering the dissection lab for harmonizing traditional and digital learning methods to optimize anatomy education. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted over seven months using an anonymous, structured 20-item questionnaire administered to 454 students from various health disciplines at Ras Al Khaimah Medical and Health Sciences University. A convenience sampling method was used. The questionnaire assessed sociodemographic data, attitudes toward cadaveric dissection, its significance in practical learning, comparisons with digital resources, and its role in professional development. Institutional approval was obtained, and informed written consent was secured from all participants before the study commenced. Results: Medical students expressed significantly stronger support for cadaveric dissection compared to allied health students, particularly regarding emotional engagement (p < 0.05), perceived educational value (p < 0.001), and comfort with handling cadavers (p < 0.001). While both groups acknowledged the benefits of digital resources, medical students reported greater improvements in visualization, confidence, and interactive learning (p < 0.01). Conclusion: Cadaveric dissection remains an essential pillar of anatomy education, offering irreplaceable benefits in anatomical comprehension and psychomotor skill development. This study highlights its role in fostering professional attributes while demonstrating that digital platforms serve as valuable complementary tools. Rather than replacing cadaveric dissection, these digital innovations enhance learning by creating a synergistic educational environment.