Pelin İSMAİLOĞLU, Nevnihal AKBAYTÜRK
Anatolian Current Medical Journal - 2026;8(1):83-90
Aims: This study aimed to examine the effect of visual worksheets on students' short-term learning outcomes and study behaviors in anatomy education. Methods: The study was conducted with 96 first-year students at the faculty of dentistry. After theoretical and laboratory instruction on the anatomy of neck muscles and triangles, students completed structured visual worksheets. Data collection tools included a pre-test, post-test, the Study Behavior Scale (SBS), a demographic form, and a post-intervention feedback questionnaire. Data were analyzed using Wilcoxon signed-rank, Mann-Whitney U, and Spearman correlation tests. Results: After the visual worksheet intervention, students' academic performance significantly improved (pre-test X=4.95; post-test X=23.54; z=-8.52, p< 0.001). Students who studied before class scored significantly higher in the SBS subscales of "Initiation and Persistence," "Conscious Study," and "Exam Preparation" (p<.05). Regular studiers had significantly higher scores in all subdimensions (p<0 .001). Regression analysis showed that only regular study habits significantly predicted final exam scores (B=9.55, p=0.002). Conclusion: Visual worksheets effectively improved academic outcomes. However, consistent and conscious study habits played a more substantial role in both learning behavior and exam success. Students' positive perception of the method highlights the potential of visual worksheets as engaging and supportive tools in anatomy education. These findings underscore the importance of combining instructional materials with behavioral strategies for effective learning.
