The Anatomy Glove Learning System for Hand Anatomy and Function: Use of Embodied Learning in Occupational Therapy Education.

Occupational therapy students must build a solid foundation in hand anatomy to prepare for practice that includes interventions for people with hand injuries or impairments. To engage students in effective active learning, the Anatomy Glove Learning System (AGLS) was used in two entry-level occupational therapy programs. This cloth glove with imprinted bones was worn while students followed an online video series to draw the muscles and tendons on the hand and understand hand physiology. Research exploring student gains in hand anatomy knowledge and confidence at the two universities (n=199) over a 2-year period found statistically significant improvements in 12 of 15 items and in total scores of an anatomy quiz taken as a pre-test and post-test (t(198)=13.77, p<0.001, Cohen's d = 1.142). In addition, statistically significant differences in student confidence related to hand anatomy (t(110)=24.47, p<0.01) and student reports of positive experiences were identified after using the AGLS. This active learning system utilized a form of embodied learning to facilitate preparedness for entry-level practice of occupational therapy students to address the needs of clients with hand impairments. Future research focused on the student experience may determine additional insights into the full benefits of the AGLS and similar active learning strategies regarding hand anatomy and physiology.