Case Closed! Neuroanatomy

The workbook format is exactly what is missing from the current selections of neuroanatomy texts. It has been developed in response to student feedback specifically to address “Neurophobia”—the term, coined by multiple international studies, used to describe the attitude of first year medical students toward neuroanatomy.

Neuroanatomical localization remains the most poorly developed skill in medical school, and “neurophobia” extends well into clinical practice. The skill of localizing neuroanatomically needs repeated practice if the student is to become proficient, yet most texts merely present neuroanatomy, complicate it with esoteric minutia, and occasionally demonstrate the skill of localization through limited examples. This passive form of learning is inefficient and frustrating. Case Closed! Neuroanatomy promotes active learning by taking inspiration from other popular case-based formats. The authors have succeeded in developing a brief, high yield primer that teaches students how to localize, challenges them to develop their thinking via cleverly designed and beautifully illustrated cases, and allows them to solve the problems that will reappear in their exams.

Warren Berger is a Senior Neurology Resident at the Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry in London, Canada. He is an award-winning lecturer and small group instructor. He is involved in the education of both medical students and residents at all levels of training.

John Berger is one part curriculum expert and one part medical illustrator. His background working in medical school curriculum planning lends itself here by providing unique insight into the student-focused approach to learning.