Anatomy knowledge retention in the Macquarie University Chiropractic Program: a cross-sectional study

Anatomy education has undergone major reforms in recent years raising concerns for anatomy knowledge retention rates within health-related professions. Chiropractic is one profession that relies heavily on knowledge of musculoskeletal anatomy. This study aimed to test the anatomy knowledge retention rates, at low and high cognitive levels, of the students in the chiropractic program at Macquarie University. It is hypothesised that retention levels will change throughout the program, with an overall increase measured. A 20 MCQ test was developed applying Bloom's Taxonomy categorising the questions into low and high cognitive ability and a survey asking students to rate their units for importance to their musculoskeletal knowledge retention. Students enrolled in the chiropractic program at Macquarie University were asked to participate in both the test and survey. The results showed an increase in anatomy knowledge retention throughout the program. The most significant difference was found between the undergraduate and postgraduate levels in the high order questions. This main finding demonstrates successful vertical integration of anatomy throughout the program leading to enhanced ability to apply anatomy knowledge and increased retention. In addition, students perceived a high-level of integration of anatomy within the program. Testing anatomy knowledge retention at different cognitive levels is a more accurate assessment of retention rates and should be considered for use in future anatomy educational research.