3D Printed Skeletal Models for Anthropology Student Use
Disciplines
Biological and Physical Anthropology | Musculoskeletal System
Abstract (300 words maximum)
Anthropology students study the human skeleton to observe similarities and differences between modern humans and our hominid ancestors, to determine how the human body is affected by cultural practices, and to even identify injuries and potential causes of death. These students rely on the access to 3-Dimensional (3D) skeletal models, usually purchased from anatomical supply companies, such as Bone Clones, or France Casting. There are several studies on whether 3D anatomy models are beneficial in the classroom setting, in comparison to plain teaching methods. In addition, numerous studies have attempted to determine whether 3D printed models used in teaching human anatomy are accurate when compared to those that can be purchased. The purpose of our research is to determine whether 3D printing skeletal models is cost effective, time and user friendly, and overall, accurate. We created several skeletal models using a combination of open source (free) files and some that required purchase to download. We also tested out the printing of these models using different types of 3D printers and with various settings, to determine which ones yielded the best results. Once our models have been printed and processed to our liking, we will compare them to the models that have been purchased for department use.
Academic department under which the project should be listed
RCHSS - Geography & Anthropology
Primary Investigator (PI) Name
Dr. Susan Kirkpatrick Smith
3D Printed Skeletal Models for Anthropology Student Use
Anthropology students study the human skeleton to observe similarities and differences between modern humans and our hominid ancestors, to determine how the human body is affected by cultural practices, and to even identify injuries and potential causes of death. These students rely on the access to 3-Dimensional (3D) skeletal models, usually purchased from anatomical supply companies, such as Bone Clones, or France Casting. There are several studies on whether 3D anatomy models are beneficial in the classroom setting, in comparison to plain teaching methods. In addition, numerous studies have attempted to determine whether 3D printed models used in teaching human anatomy are accurate when compared to those that can be purchased. The purpose of our research is to determine whether 3D printing skeletal models is cost effective, time and user friendly, and overall, accurate. We created several skeletal models using a combination of open source (free) files and some that required purchase to download. We also tested out the printing of these models using different types of 3D printers and with various settings, to determine which ones yielded the best results. Once our models have been printed and processed to our liking, we will compare them to the models that have been purchased for department use.