Anatomage table provides new resource for biology students
Students at Palatine High School now have a new way to study biology thanks to a device called an Anatomage table. The table allows students to explore three-dimensional images of various aspects of human anatomy.
"The biggest advantage is just application and the amount of different things you can do with this," said Christian Keller, a biology teacher at Palatine High School.
The table uses images of actual cadavers to provide students with a real-life view of the human body. Students have the ability to view the body at every level. The latest update to the table included a variety of injuries, which allows students to see the impact beyond the surface.
Keller said the table allows the students to cut into various sections while allowing them to manipulate the view.
Senior Sarah Jasonowicz said the table is a great asset when she and fellow students are doing practical exercises.
"You're able to see [the body] in a life size form," she said. "It has helped me with practicals and tests. You can ask the table a question by tapping on the bones or muscles and it will name it for you."
The interactive images of actual cadavers were one aspect which has helped senior Stephanie Bender in studying for tests.
"Seeing it in life makes it easier to picture on yourself," Bender said. "It's like math, you don't know what you're doing until you connect it to something real world."
Bender and Jasonowicz both plan to pursue medical careers after college. They both feel having this table in high school helps them prepare for college classes.
"This is definitely what I am going to see later in life," said Bender. "I am going to have a head start."
Jasonowicz plans to eventually become a biomedical engineer. She said this table gives her a taste of what she will need to know later.
"My ideal job would be doing prosthetics," she said. Seeing bones and how they attach and all the muscles I will need to learn later is great."
The school purchased the table shortly before the beginning of the school year, and Keller said he is exploring more options to implement it into future classes.
"This first year I got it into the bones and muscles where it can be an additional resource," he said. "But, just thinking about next year, and how can we build in case studies? How can we make it so it can be part of discussions? The possibilities going forward are very exciting."
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