Wendell Nunes da Silva; Emerson Roberto Santos; Laura Cristina Nogueira Siqueira Knoch; Fernando José Dias; Diego Pulzatto Cury & Ana Paula Cremasco Takano

Human anatomy is fundamental to biological and health sciences curricula, traditionally taught through lectures combined with practical laboratory sessions. However, recent evidence suggests that active methodologies and interactive technologies may enhance student participation, satisfaction and the effectiveness of teaching and learning. We evaluated the usefulness of a low-cost pedagogical tool, the interactive holographic pyramid display. Designed for tablets and constructed from crystal acetate sheets, the holographic pyramid projects three-dimensional images of the heart’s external and internal structures during systole and diastole. After attending a heart anatomy lecture, students participated in practical lab sessions that featured various learning stations, including one with the holographic pyramid. A questionnaire assessed their perceptions of the activity. Results indicated that 96 % of participants enjoyed the activity, and the use of the pyramid enhanced interest in anatomy. Additionally, more than 90 % of students agreed that the activity helped them assimilate the concepts discussed in the previous lecture class. The activity was well-received, suggesting the potential of low-cost holographic tools for complementing anatomy education. Future research should evaluate retention and performance outcomes using this technology-enhanced learning activity.

KEY WORDS: Holographic pyramids; Heart; Low-cost technology.

NUNES DA SILVA, W.; SANTOS, E. R.; KNOCH, L. C. N. S. ; DIAS, F. J.; CURY, D. P. & TAKANO, A. P. C. Low-cost holographic pyramid for teaching heart anatomy. Int. J. Morphol., 43(1):10-13, 2025.