Number
722
Name
Genital Embryology Education Redesigned Through the Formation of an Interactive, Inclusive, and Scientifically Accurate Online Learning Module
Date & Time
Sunday, June 15, 2025, 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
Location Name
Exhibition Hall C
Presentation Topic(s)
Technology and Innovation
Description

Purpose
Genital embryology is a challenging topic for students to learn and instructors to teach. The subject is further challenged by outdated binary constructs of sex and gender, as well as a misconception that there is a “default” embryologic pattern that is changed only when acted upon by testosterone and dihydrotestosterone. Many prior genital embryology modules utilize false binary constructs about sex and some were created using now-defunct technology (e.g., Flash). The authors saw a need for the development of an online genital embryology learning module that accurately differentiates sex and gender, describes our latest understanding of genital embryology, and utilizes accessible and up to date technology.

Methods
Module development was brainstormed F2F in summer 2023. Beginning Fall 2023, UBC Biomedical Visualization and Communication (BMVC) graduate students,) faculty and staff (co-authors) collaborated remotely to render anatomically accurate artwork and animations and finalize Miro storyboards. Non-gendered and inclusive language was used in the module whenever possible, and it included the latest scientific information about genital development. Universal design for learning (UDL) and Mayer’s principles of multimedia learning were used to ensure the module was accessible. Illustrations were created using Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop, and the Module construction was created using Articulate 360.

Results
The final deliverable went live in Fall 2024 at https://www.clinicalanatomy.ca/embryology/GenitalEmbryology/story.html. This genital embryology learning module includes a user-friendly accessible navigation menu, a module guide, and quizzes to direct users’ learning experiences. It incorporates gender-inclusive language and emphasizes that both sex and gender are non-binary constructs.

Conclusion
The freely-available Genital Embryology online interactive learning module uses inclusive design principles, provides science-based descriptions about sex and gender, and incorporates up-to-date scientific knowledge about genital development pathways. We encourage students to utilize this module when learning of genital embryology, and educators to use the module (with appropriate credit) in their teaching.