Gross and Applied Anatomy Pedagogical Approaches in Occupational Therapy Education: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Introduction. With technological advancements, anatomy teaching approaches in occupational therapy education have expanded. However, uncertainty remains regarding the approaches that best optimize academic and practice outcomes in student occupational therapists (OTs). Purpose. This scoping review mapped the pedagogical approaches used to teach musculoskeletal anatomy to student OTs. Methods. A scoping review was conducted, with a consultation exercise involving Canadian occupational therapy educators. Six databases were searched, with terms related to student OTs, anatomy, and education. Included articles were available in English, full text; featured empirical research of any study design and/or gray literature; featured a pedagogical approach used to teach anatomy; and targeted student OTs with the pedagogies. Results. Twenty-eight reports between 1978 and 2021 were included. Although technology-based pedagogies became more common with time, historically used pedagogies (e.g., lectures and labs) remained prominent and most common. Narrative synthesis regarding the effectiveness of anatomy pedagogical approaches identified five main factors: (a) anatomy competency; (b) teaching method diversity; (c) learner psychological considerations; (d) interprofessional education; and (e) optimal academic outcomes. Implications. This review demonstrates the importance of anatomy knowledge to occupational therapy education and practice. A diversity of pedagogical approaches, with and without technology, may foster better outcomes by addressing diverse learning needs.