Résumé
Many anatomy curricula rely on access to gross anatomy labs so that students can engage in experiential learning with donated human bodies. Without access to an anatomy lab, learning is limited to study with 2D print or online materials and 3D models ? both physical and virtual. When the restrictions due to the Covid19 pandemic were put into place and it became clear that learning would not occur on campus and in our labs, we wanted to ensure that the students still had access to 3-dimensional learning from prosections. We built on our experience in 3D photogrammetry and 3D scanning and integrated these specimens into a custom-built 3D virtual anatomy lab environment. The aim of the design was to create a sense of space and professionalism in the virtual experience. The VanVR application was created using Unity Engine and WebGL with 3D scanning/photogrammetry, and programmed for use on desktop browsers to increase accessibility. The goal of this application is not only to show 3D specimens, but also create an anatomy one-stop teaching and study tool that includes related reference material for each specimen, such labelled images, videos, web modules, etc. Within this virtual space, students can rotate, zoom and compare specimens, which would be difficult to do during an in-person anatomy class. The VanVR app has been the main anatomy teaching tool at the University of British Columbia during the pandemic lockdown. Once in-person teaching resumes, this app will be available as a reference tool for study and review. Feedback from the students about their learning experience has been positive and the VanVR app proved to be a good approach to anatomy education for remote and online learning.