Biology and Chemistry Labs Showcase Recent Upgrades

Holy Family University biology and chemistry students are taking advantage of new interactive software and three-dimensional replicas of the human body’s muscular and skeletal systems as part of recent upgrades to the University’s biology and chemistry labs.

The newly implemented Complete Anatomy software from Elsevier includes touch screens in the front of the labclassrooms and table-top displays that allow students to manipulate and better visualize the inner workings of the human body.  Life-sized limbs and other models, including replicas of hip, knee and shoulder joints, also are providing a realistic experience for students. The software also allows students to view case studies and x-rays both in classrooms and virtually, so learning is no longer limited to the lab setting.

“The enhancements of the new software and models are giving our students a top-notch experience in the classroom,” said Dr. Jennifer DeCicco, Interim Dean of the School of Arts & Sciences.

“Our students seem to like the models, and they definitely make it easier to learn the human anatomy,” said Assistant Professor of Biology Dr. Ed Waddell, who is introducing the software and manipulatives to all pre-medicine and nursing majors, as well as to those looking to become physician’s assistants and physical therapists, among other professions. “They are built to the scale of a 6-foot person, which gives our students a full appreciation of what they would see in a real patient.  They also have the advantage of having the software on their own personal devices. They can even build their own quizzes to test their knowledge, and of course, I can craft tests through the software.  With actual dissections, a student can’t access deep muscles without cutting through other muscles.  These models allow for better visualization and are sustainable.  We are still figuring out all of the capabilities, but the students are really enjoying this hands-on learning.”