Role of dissection in light of students’ perceptions

Objective: To observe students perception of gross anatomy dissection. Methods: The qualitative study comprised second year medical students of Army Medical College, Rawalpindi, and was conducted in July, 2013. Data was collected over three weeks through quota sampling. Focus group discussions were held with four groups having 15 students each. The sessions were audio-recorded which were transcribed and interpreted. Results: On the basis of FGDs, four themes were identified: Prossected specimen as an introductory teaching tool; emotional reaction on specimen handling; practical concerns during specimen handling; and experience of learning anatomy. Trends were identified within these broader themes. Conclusion: There were differences in terms of attitudes and dissection hall experiences of medical students connected with the learning.