Abstract
This study investigated the influence of using three-dimensional (3D) computer and 3D-printed models on the spatial reasoning of experts and novices. The task of this study required general university students as novices in Experiment 1 and surgeons specializing in digestive surgery as experts in Experiment 2 to infer the cross sections of a liver, using a 3D-computer or 3D-printed model. The results of the experiments showed that the university students learned faster and inferred the liver structure more accurately with the 3D-printed model than with the 3D-computer model. Conversely, the surgeons showed the same task performance when using the 3D-computer and 3D-printed models; however, they performed the task with more confidence and less workload during the task with the 3D-printed model. Based on the results, the cognitive effects and advantages of using 3D-printed models for novices and experts have been discussed.
Similar content being viewed by others
References
Anđić, B., Lavicza, Z., Ulbrich, E., Cvjetićanin, S., Petrović, F., & Maričić, M. (2022). Contribution of 3D modelling and printing to learning in primary schools: A case study with visually impaired students from an inclusive Biology classroom. Journal of Biological Education, 1–17. https://doi.org/10.1080/00219266.2022.2118352.
Assante, D., Cennamo, G. M., & Placidi, L. (2020). 3D printing in education: An European perspective. Proceedings from 2020 IEEE global engineering education conference (EDUCON). https://doi.org/10.1109/EDUCON45650.2020.9125311.
Bagaria, V., & Chaudhary, K. (2017). A paradigm shift in surgical planning and simulation using 3Dgraphy: Experience of first 50 surgeries done using 3D-printed biomodels. Injury, 48(11), 2501–2508. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.injury.2017.08.058.
Barrett, T. J., Stull, A. T., Hsu, T. M., & Hegarty, M. (2015). Constrained interactivity for relating multiple representations in science: When virtual is better than real. Computers & Education, 81, 69–81. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compedu.2014.09.009.
Boumaraf, H., & İnceoğlu, M. (2020). Integrating 3D printing technologies into architectural education as design tools. Emerging Science Journal, 4(2), 73–81. https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings12091319.
Brunyé, T. T., Carney, P. A., Allison, K. H., Shapiro, L. G., Weaver, D. L., & Elmore, J. G. (2014). Eye movements as an index of pathologist visual expertise: A pilot study. PLoS One, 9(8), e103447. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0103447.
Cheng, L., Antonenko, P. D., Ritzhaupt, A. D., Dawson, K., Miller, D., MacFadden, B. J., Grant, G., Sheppard, T. D., & Ziegler, M. (2020). Exploring the influence of teachers’ beliefs and 3D printing integrated STEM instruction on students’ STEM motivation. Computer & Education, 158, 103983. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compedu.2020.103983.
Chi, M. T. H., Feltovich, P. J., & Glaser, R. (1981). Categorization and representation of physics problems by experts and novices. Cognitive Science, 5(2), 121–152. https://doi.org/10.1207/s15516709cog0502_2.
Cohen, C. A., & Hegarty, M. (2012). Inferring cross sections of 3D objects: A new spatial thinking test. Learning and Individual Differences, 22(6), 868–874. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lindif.2012.05.007.
Derossi, A., Caporizzi, R., Azzollini, D., & Severini, C. (2018). Application of 3D printing for customized food. A case on the development of a fruit-based snack for children. Journal of Food Engineering, 220, 65–75. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfoodeng.2017.05.015.
Dod, G., Jibhakate, R., & Walke, P. (2023). A review on 3D printing maxillofacial surgery: Present work and future prospects. Materials Today: Proceedings. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.matpr.2023.06.049.
Gagnier, K. M., Atit, K., Ormand, C. J., & Shipley, T. F. (2017). Comprehending 3D diagrams: Sketching to support spatial reasoning. Topics in Cognitive Science, 9(4), 883–901. https://doi.org/10.1111/tops.12233.
Garas, M., Vaccarezza, M., Newland, G., McVay-Doornbusch, K., & Hasani, J. (2018). 3D-printed specimens as a valuable tool in anatomy education: A pilot study. Annals of Anatomy, 219, 57–64. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aanat.2018.05.006.
Garcia, J., Yang, Z., Mongrain, R., Leask, R. L., & Lachapelle, K. (2017). 3D printing materials and their use in medical education: A review of current technology and trends for the future. BMJ Simulation & Technology Enhanced Learning, 4(1), 27–40. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjstel-2017-000234.
Gray, W. D., Sims, C. R., Fu, W. T., & Schoelles, M. J. (2006). The soft constraints hypothesis: A rational analysis approach to resource allocation for interactive behavior. Psychological Review, 113(3), 461–482. https://doi.org/10.1037/0033-295X.113.3.461.
Guay, R., & McDaniels, E. (1976). The visualization of viewpoints. The Purdue Research Foundation.
Hambrick, D. Z., & Meinz, E. J. (2011). Limits on the predictive power of domain-specific experience and knowledge in skilled performance. Current Directions in Psychological Science, 20(5), 275–279. https://doi.org/10.1177/0963721411422061.
Hart, S. G., & Staveland, L. E. (1988). Development of NASA-TLX (Task Load Index): Results of empirical and theoretical research. In P. A. Hancock & N. Meshkati (Eds.), Advances in psychology, 52. Human mental workload (pp. 139–183). North-Holland. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0166-4115(08)62386-9.
Hegarty, M. (2011). The cognitive science of visual-spatial displays: Implications for design. Topics in Cognitive Science, 3(3), 446–474. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1756-8765.2011.01150.x.
Hegarty, M., Keehner, M., Khooshabeh, P., & Montello, D. R. (2009). How spatial abilities enhance, and are enhanced by, dental education. Learning and Individual Differences, 19(1), 61–70. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lindif.2008.04.006.
Huang, C. Y., & Wang, J. W. (2022). Effectiveness of a three-dimensional-printing curriculum: Developing and evaluating an elementary school design-oriented model course. Computers & Education, 187, 104553. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compedu.2022.104553.
Justo, E., Delgado, A., Llorente-Cejudo, C., Aguilar, R., & Cabero-Almenara, J. (2022). The effectiveness of physical and virtual manipulatives on learning and motivation in structural engineering. Journal of Engineering Education, 111(4), 813–851. https://doi.org/10.1002/jee.20482.
Karsenty, C., Guitarte, A., Dulac, Y., Briot, J., Hascoet, S., Vincent, R., et al. (2021). The usefulness of 3D printed heart models for medical student education in congenital heart disease. BMC Medical Education, 21(1), 1–8. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-021-02917-z.
Keehner, M., Hegarty, M., Cohen, C., Khooshabeh, P., & Montello, D. R. (2008). Spatial reasoning with external visualizations: What matters is what you see, not whether you interact. Cognitive Science, 32(7), 1099–1132. https://doi.org/10.1080/03640210801898177.
Kozma, R. B., & Russell, J. (2005). Students becoming chemists: Developing representational competence. John K. Gilbert (Ed.), Visualization in Science Education, (pp. 121–145). Springer. https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/1-4020-3613-2_8.
Krupinski, E. A., Tillack, A. A., Ritchter, L., Henderson, J. T., Bhattacharyya, A. K., Scott, K. M., Graham, A. R., Descour, M. R., Davis, J. R., & Weinstein, R. S. (2006). Eye-movement study and human performance using telepathology virtual slides. Implications for medical education and differences with experience. Human Pathology, 37(12), 1543–1556. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.humpath.2006.08.024.
l’Alzit, F. R., Cade, R., Naveau, A., Babilotte, J., Meglioli, M., & Catros, S. (2022). Accuracy of commercial 3D printers for the fabrication of surgical guides in dental implantology. Journal of Dentistry, 117, 103909. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jdent.2021.103909.
Lakatos, S., & Marks, L. E. (1999). Haptic form perception: Relative salience of local and global features. Perception & Psychophysics, 61(5), 895–908. https://doi.org/10.3758/bf03206904.
Lakkala, P., Munnangi, S. R., Bandari, S., & Repka, M. (2023). Additive manufacturing technologies with emphasis on stereolithography 3D printing in pharmaceutical and medical applications: A review. International Journal of Pharmaceutics: X, 5, 100159. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijpx.2023.100159.
Lau, I., & Sun, Z. (2022). The role of 3D printed heart models in immediate and long-term knowledge acquisition in medical education. Reviews in Cardiovascular Medicine, 23(1), 022. https://doi.org/10.31083/j.rcm2301022.
Lim, K. H. A., Loo, Z. Y., Goldie, S. J., Adams, J. M., & McMenamin, P. G. (2016). Use of 3D printed models in medical education: A randomized control trial comparing 3D prints versus cadaveric materials for learning external cardiac anatomy. Anatomical Sciences Education, 9(3), 213–221. https://doi.org/10.1002/ase.1573.
Liu, B., Wu, Y., Xing, W., Guo, S., & Zhu, L. (2020). The role of self-directed learning in studying 3D design and modeling. Interactive Learning Environments, 31(3), 1651–1664. https://doi.org/10.1080/10494820.2020.1855208.
Lohning, A. E., Hall, S., & Dukie, S. (2019). Enhancing understanding in biochemistry using 3D printing and cheminformatics technologies: A student perspective. Journal of Chemical Education, 96(11), 2497–2502. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.jchemed.8b00965.
Louvrier, A., Marty, P., Barrabe, A., Euvrard, E., Chatelain, B., Weber, E., et al. (2017). How useful is 3D printing in maxillofacial surgery? Journal of Stomatology Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, 18(4), 206–212. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jormas.2017.07.002.
Malik, H. H., Darwood, A. R. J., Shaunak, S., Kulatilake, P., El-Hilly, A. A., Mulki, O., & Baskaradas, A. (2015). Three-dimensional printing in surgery: A review of current surgical applications. Journal of Surgical Research, 199(2), 512–522. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jss.2015.06.051.
Marconi, S., Pugliese, L., Botti, M., Peri, A., Cavazzi, E., Latteri, S., et al. (2017). Value of 3D printing for the comprehension of surgical anatomy. Surgical Endoscopy, 31(10), 4102–4110. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00464-017-5457-5.
Martelli, N., Serrano, C., van den Brink, H., Pineau, J., Prognon, P., Borget, I., & Batti, S. E. (2016). Advantages and disadvantages of 3-dimensional printing in surgery: A systematic review. Surgery, 159(6), 1485–1500. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.surg.2015.12.017.
Ngo, T. D., Kashani, A., Imbalzano, G., Nguyen, K. T. Q., & Hui, D. (2018). Additive manufacturing (3D printing): A review of materials, methods, applications and challenges. Composites Part B: Engineering, 143(15), 172–196. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compositesb.2018.02.012.
Nimura, Y., Deguchi, D., Kitaska, T., Mori, K., & Suenaga, Y. (2008). PLUTO: A common platform for computer-aided diagnosis. Medical Imaging Technology, 26(3), 187–191. https://doi.org/10.11409/mit.26.187.
Nodine, C. F., Kundel, H. L., Mello-Thoms, C., Weinstein, S. P., Orel, S. G., Sullivan, D. C., & Conant, E. F. (1999). How experience and training influence mammography expertise. Academic Radiology, 6(10), 575–585. https://doi.org/10.1016/s1076-6332(99)80252-9.
Oswald, C. J., Rinner, C., & Robinson, A. L. (2019). Applications of 3D printing in physical geography education and urban visualization. Cartographica The International Journal for Geographic Information and Geovisualization, 54(4), 278–287. https://doi.org/10.3138/cart.54.4.2018-0007.
Pearson, H. A., & Dube, A. K. (2021). 3D printing as an educational technology: Theoretical perspectives, learning outcomes, and recommendations for practice. Education and Information Technologies, 27, 3037–3064. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10639-021-10733-7.
Plaisier, M. A., Tiest, W. M. B., & Kappers, A. M. L. (2009). Salient features in 3-D haptic shape perception. Attention Perception & Psychophysics, 71(2), 421–430. https://doi.org/10.3758/APP.71.2.421.
Ramey, K. E., & Stevens, R. (2019). Interest development and learning in choice-based, in-school, making activities: The case of a 3D printer. Learning Culture and Social Interaction, 23, 100262. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lcsi.2018.11.009.
Rau, M. A. (2020). Comparing multiple theories about learning with physical and virtual representations: Conflicting or complementary effects? Educational Psychology Review, 32(3), 297–325. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10648-020-09517-1.
Risko, E. F., & Gilbert, S. J. (2016). Cognitive offloading. Trends in Cognitive Science, 20(9), 676–688. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tics.2016.07.002.
Salkowski, L. R., & Russ, R. (2018). Cognitive processing differences of experts and novices when correlating anatomy and cross sectional imaging. Journal of Medical Imaging, 5(3), 031411–031411. https://doi.org/10.1117/1.JMI.5.3.031411.
Schwartz, D. L., & Holton, D. L. (2000). Tool use and the effect of action on the imagination. Journal of Experimental Psychology: Learning Memory and Cognition, 26(6), 1655–1665. https://doi.org/10.1037//0278-7393.26.6.1655.
Smith, C. F., Tollemache, N., Covill, D., & Johnston, M. (2017). Take away body parts! An investigation into the use of 3D-printed anatomical models in undergraduate anatomy education. Anatomical Sciences Education, 11(1), 44–53. https://doi.org/10.1002/ase.1718.
Stieff, M. (2007). Mental rotation and diagrammatic reasoning in science. Learning and Instruction, 17(2), 219–234. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.learninstruc.2007.01.012.
Stone, B., Kay, D., Reynolds, A., & Brown, D. (2020). 3D printing and service learning: Accessible open educational resources for students with visual impairment. International Journal of Teaching and Learning in Higher Education, 32(2), 336–346. http://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1286477.pdf.
Stull, A. T., & Hegarty, M. (2016). Model manipulation and learning: Fostering representational competence with virtual and concrete models. Journal of Educational Psychology, 108(4), 509–527. https://doi.org/10.1037/edu0000077.
Stull, A. T., Barrett, T., & Hegarty, M. (2013). Usability of concrete and virtual models in chemistry instruction. Computers in Human Behavior, 29(6), 2546–2556. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chb.2013.06.012.
Stull, A. T., Gainer, M. J., & Hegarty, M. (2018). Learning by enacting: The role of embodiment in chemistry education. Learning and Instruction, 55(7), 80–92. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.learninstruc.2017.09.008.
Tack, P., Victor, J., Gemmel, P., & Annemans, L. (2016). 3D–printing techniques in a medical setting: A systematic literature review. BioMedical Engineering OnLine, 15(1), 115. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12938-016-0236-4.
Xia, J., Mao, J., Chen, H., Xu, X., Zhang, J., Yang, J., & Wang, Z. (2023). Development and evaluation of a portable and soft 3D–printed cast for laparoscopic choledochojejunostomy model in surgical training. BMC Medical Education, 23, Articlenumber77. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-023-04055-0.
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Corresponding author
Ethics declarations
Conflict of interest
On behalf of all authors, the corresponding author states that there is no conflict of interest.
Additional information
Publisher’s Note
Springer Nature remains neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations.
Rights and permissions
Springer Nature or its licensor (e.g. a society or other partner) holds exclusive rights to this article under a publishing agreement with the author(s) or other rightsholder(s); author self-archiving of the accepted manuscript version of this article is solely governed by the terms of such publishing agreement and applicable law.
About this article
Cite this article
Maehigashi, A., Miwa, K., Oda, M. et al. Use of 3D-printed model of liver by experts and novices. Curr Psychol 43, 17185–17197 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12144-024-05676-4
Accepted:
Published:
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12144-024-05676-4