Use of Handmade Models in Teaching Helminth Infections
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Three-dimensional visualization of helminths is not always possible during the study of these worms. Teaching helminthiases in medical school faces the challenge of 2D ‒ worms in different morphologies are flattened under microscopes, and students depend on abstract reasoning to understand how Taenia sp. attaches to the human intestine, for example. The use of handmade models as a teaching strategy to overcome this difficulty is the focus of this study. Eight models were made by monitors of the Microbiology and Parasitology course taught to second-semester medical students in 2025. The selected worms were: Ascaris lumbricoides; Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus; Taenia saginata and T. solium; Enterobius vermicularis; Schistosoma mansoni; Trichuris trichiura; Strongyloides stercoralis; and Wuchereria bancrofti. Bases were made of styrofoam; helminths in their different morphologies were produced with biscuit clay and painted with acrylic paint. Over two classes, 54 students received name labels and were invited to place them correctly in the corresponding life cycle stages and present to the class. At the end, an anonymous questionnaire with four closed questions assessed comprehension, content retention, clarity, and engagement, plus one open question for suggestions. Of the 54 participating students, 22 completed the evaluation questionnaire (40.74%). All respondents (100%) reported that the models facilitated learning, helped consolidate theoretical content, and allowed better visualization compared with 2D images. Additionally, all indicated that the activity increased engagement and interest during class. Open feedback highlighted that the resource “greatly facilitated content retention and absorption, since it is playful and visual” and that it brought “novelty to the classroom, helping make the class more dynamic”. Handmade models promoted student engagement and understanding, especially regarding helminth life cycles and morphological diversity. The monitoring activity proved to be a useful teaching resource by supporting 3D visualization, logical reasoning, autonomy, communication, and teamwork. Replication and evaluation in varied medical teaching contexts are recommended.
Language: English
Subfield: Biomedical Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,600
OpenAlex ID: W7135370240
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