Understanding the Role of Anatomy Demonstrators in the United Kingdom

Authors:
Publisher website
Google Scholar
Abstract
The employment of anatomy demonstrators (ADs) has grown unexpectedly over two decades to meet increasing educational demands. However, their role is poorly understood and defined. There is therefore a need to better understand ADs, to maximize their potential as educators and build the integrity and transparency of UK anatomical education. Through a mixed methods approach this study explored ADs: demographics, role descriptors, experiences within the role, barriers to the role, and the potential of ADs. An online questionnaire ( n = 50) and three virtual focus groups ( N = 13) were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify emerging patterns and themes. The findings highlight that ADs are generally young people from diverse backgrounds with an even gender split. The role and its responsibilities seemingly vary substantially between universities, with ADs employed in numerous different ways. Being an AD appears to be an overall positive experience and ADs enjoy their work. Furthermore, ADs care about anatomical education and want to engage in discussions to improve their role and develop medical education. This study has expanded the understanding of the UK AD role and concludes that the UK AD role is a varied and often rewarding post that is enjoyed by diverse, engaged individuals who are primarily resident doctors by background. This study provides practical recommendations for anatomy departments to improve the experience for ADs and hopes to stimulate greater interest in ADs in order to maximize their educational potential.

This publication has 38 references indexed in Scilit: