Neuroanatomy - SecondLook

Functionality & Mechanism

Neuroanatomy - SecondLook is a mobile self-assessment tool developed by faculty and students at the University of Michigan. It provides a series of high-quality neuroanatomical images, allowing users to test their ability to recognize key structures within the human central nervous system. The application utilizes a question-and-answer format linked to each image, which facilitates active recall and knowledge reinforcement. This mechanism supports students in identifying gaps in their understanding before formal examinations.

Development & Context

• The SecondLook app series was created at the University of Michigan to offset reduced classroom time for anatomical sciences and provide students a self-review resource.
• The news coverage notes the tool originated as a series of PowerPoint files for histology before being converted into a broader mobile app platform.
• Senior medical and dental students collaborate with faculty content experts to develop new apps, often to fulfill curriculum requirements or prepare for residency training.
• The collection of SecondLook apps had collectively been downloaded more than 49,000 times in 180 countries as of April 2019.

Intended Use & Scope

This application is designed as an educational support tool for medical, dental, nursing, and other health sciences students preparing for course tests and licensing examinations. Its primary scope is self-assessment and knowledge review for academic purposes. The information presented is based on developer materials and news coverage, not peer-reviewed efficacy studies.