The Anatomy Learning Center (ALC) at UCSF stands out as a premier destination for anatomy learning, boasting exceptional resources and a thoughtfully designed environment. Leveraging the invaluable UCSF Willed Body Program, the ALC provides a continuous supply of specimens throughout the year, crucial for a comprehensive anatomy education.
At the heart of the ALC is an extensive collection that significantly enhances anatomy learning. This includes 20 expertly prosected cadavers, a wide array of prosections, ten authentic skeletons, and detailed anatomical specimens such as skulls, brains, and spinal cords. This rich teaching collection is fundamental in establishing a robust anatomy foundation for all students.
The ALC is not only well-equipped but also aesthetically remarkable, recognized as one of the nation’s most visually appealing anatomy labs. Positioned on the 13th floor, the lab’s north-facing windows bathe the space in natural light, creating an uplifting learning atmosphere. This unique setting also offers breathtaking views of San Francisco, an exclusive perk for UCSF members with approved access, making it arguably a top sightseeing spot within the city.
Ensuring a healthy and focused learning environment, the ALC is equipped with a robust ventilation system that achieves 36 air exchanges per hour. This advanced system refreshes the air approximately every two minutes, maintaining optimal air quality within the lab.
To support high-demand digital learning, the Center features a dedicated WiFi network, separate from the campus-wide system. This ensures seamless connectivity and high-speed internet access for all learning activities, even during peak class sessions.
The ALC’s advanced audio-visual system significantly enhances anatomy learning. It seamlessly integrates iPads with six expansive 72-inch HD screens and overhead speakers. This setup enables faculty to conduct detailed anatomy demonstrations and display intricate anatomical structures to over 70 students simultaneously, fostering an engaging and interactive learning experience.
Students benefit from 24/7 access to iPads within the lab, each loaded with faculty-designed lab guides, anatomy exploration apps, and internet access. These resources empower students to engage in self-directed anatomy learning and explore concepts in depth at their own pace. The lab’s walls are lined with ample whiteboards, encouraging both individual study and peer-to-peer collaboration, allowing students to work through complex anatomical concepts together.
The innovative Skywall feature allows for flexible use of the lab space. It can be lowered to divide the lab into two distinct areas, facilitating simultaneous activities. This is particularly useful for accommodating surgical training sessions with unembalmed specimens on one side, while students continue their independent study on the other. This adaptability allows for concurrent classes, independent study, training programs, and research activities within the ALC.
Adjacent to the main lab, the ALC multipurpose room serves as a versatile space, functioning as both a convenient classroom and conference room. This proximity allows faculty to easily connect with students before and after lab sessions, fostering a more integrated learning environment.
The multipurpose room is equipped with dual LED screens featuring Airplay capabilities, ideal for presentations and video conferencing. The room’s furniture, including tables and chairs on wheels, can be easily folded and stacked, enabling quick transformations of the space. It can swiftly transition from a conference setting to a classroom, a virtual reality environment, or even a yoga room, showcasing its adaptability.
Behind whiteboard-covered closets, students have immediate access to bone models and ultrasound equipment. This readily available equipment transforms the multipurpose room into an interactive study space, further enriching the anatomy learning experience at UCSF’s ALC.
