Evaluating Autostereoscopy (AlioscopyTM) Use for Anatomy Education
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IntroductionTraditional anatomy learning relies on models and cadaveric specimens that are time and resource intensive to produce, which compromises their accessibility. To mitigate this, the use of three‐dimensional visualization technology (3DVT) to learn anatomy has substantially increased. Still, learning in an immersive virtual reality (VR) environment may pose new challenges, including increased self‐reported levels of cognitive load and cybersickness likely due to its immersive nature that isolates the learner from their surroundings. Autostereoscopy is a novel and potential solution, as it provides a headset‐free stereoscopic view of a three‐dimensional (3D) model. There is, however, a paucity of information about the use and educational efficacy of autostereoscopic 3DVT. The purpose of this study is to examine the strengths and limitations of implementing a non‐immersive autostereoscopic (AlioscopyTM) screen for learning anatomy.MethodsA large‐scale study on the efficacy of VR, autostereoscopy, and 3D printed physical models for learning anatomy is currently underway. We suspect that cognitive load and cybersickness may compete with learning capacity. Based on the literature, we hypothesize the AlioscopyTM screen to represent a sort of middle‐of‐the‐road option, with moderate cognitive load and cybersickness levels (VR>AlioscopyTM>physical), that supports large‐group learning (as opposed to single‐user immersive VR) yet retains the accessibility associated with digital assets (as compared to physical specimens). As such, it is prudent to consider the feasibility of implementing an AlioscopyTM screen for anatomical teaching and summarize the strengths and limitations of the technology.ResultsAccording to the company’s website, 3D images on the 42” AlioscopyTM display we are using can be viewed from 2.5m to 9.0m away, with optimal results at 4.0m, by a theoretical maximum of “20 to 50 people spread over an area of 90°”. We suspect a practical limit of 14 people per display (2 people for each of the 7 viewing zones) and a comfortable limit of 7 (1 per zone). This allows viewers to comfortably situate themselves in a “sweet spot” where each of their eyes receives a clear, distinct image, which is required for the stereoscopic effect. The stereo‐3D effect is prominent, with objects allowed to both protrude from and recess into the display considerably. Display content was created using a plugin (provided by AlioscopyTM) for the videogame engine Unity, allowing existing Unity content to function on the modality easily.ConclusionThe AlioscopyTMscreen represents a novel approach to promoting material accessibility and viewing 3D stereoscopic images in a group setting. The nature of this set up may both decrease the inherent issues most immersive 3DVT impose and offer an opportunity for collaborative learning not available with the use of single‐user headsets.
