The limited efficacy of 3D models for teaching students sex estimations based on cranial traits: A case for investment in osteology teaching labs

Abstract

The use of 3D digital imaging methods has increased within biological anthropology and medical research. Although digital renderings can be easily shared by researchers or used for student learning modules in osteology, limitations to using 3D models exist, requiring institutions of higher learning to invest in real bones or casts of human skeletal remains for labs. Here, we examine whether 3D digital models are viable proxies for real bones by testing the reliability of scoring sexually dimorphic traits of the human skull, a method commonly used by North American skeletal biologists. Forty‐five crania from Peruvian archaeological sites were used to score four sexually dimorphic cranial traits. These morphological traits were scored by one student learning osteology and an experienced researcher using the actual crania and 3D models of the same individuals. Statistical tests of rater agreement and strength of the agreement were conducted. Results showed lower agreement between the actual and 3D scores for the student and higher agreement among the scores for the experienced researcher. Accurate and cost‐effective 3D models can serve as excellent replacements for real skeletal remains when researchers are experienced. However, 3D models may be a less reliable training tool for students learning osteological methods that require palpating areas of the human cranium. This study makes a strong case for purchasing quality casts or real human skeletal remains of legal/ethical origin for osteology teaching labs, despite their higher costs.

Assessing the Feasibility of Estimating the Age and Sex from Virtual 3d Models: A Pilot Study Into Virtual Forensic Anthropology

“…3D technologies, such as optical surface scanning, (Sholts et al, 2010) or computer tomography (CT), (Decker et al, 2011) have contributed towards the field of forensic anthropology, due to the utilisation in creating 3D virtual models of skeletal elements (Garvin & Stock, 2016;Uldin, 2017). This application of 3D virtual models within forensic anthropology has led to the new sub-field known as 'virtual anthropology' (Weber, 2001), which has assisted in such research as questions regarding individual biological profiles (Telmon et al, 2005;Grabherr et al, 2009;Ramsthaler et al, 2010;Decker et al, 2011;Lottering et al, 2013;Villa et al, 2013;Belford et al, 2018;Colman., 2019;Kuzminsky et al, 2019).…”

“…Such an innovation could allow for regular development and testing of forensic anthropological methods in estimating biological profiles, due to having large sample numbers, data from modern individuals, and increased representation of different biological and lifestyle influences than historical skeletal collections (Villa et al, 2019). Moreover, virtual lab spaces may offer the opportunity for enhancing training for students, forensic anthropologists, bioarchaeologists and osteologists, via universal, global data sharing (Kuzminsky et al, 2019).…”

“…In addition, researchers have begun to examine the feasibility and reliability of the use of 3D virtual bone models for the estimation of biological profiles (Barrier et al, 2009;Ramsthaler et al, 2010;Villa et al, 2013;Wink, 2014;Kuzminsky et al, 2019). Specifically, studies have focused on 3D visualisation of the skull or pelvis for sex or age estimations, with several publications highlighting the benefits of 3D virtual bone models within forensic anthropology (Telmon et al, 2005;Dedouit et al, 2007;Grabherr et al, 2009;Decker et al, 2011;Lottering et al, 2013;Colman, 2019).…”

“…While studies have focused on identifying the accurate portrayal of morphological traits on 3D virtual models or examining to what extent existing age and sex estimations could be applied to 3D visualisations of the bones (Telmon et al, 2005;Grabherr et al, 2009;Kuzminsky et al, 2019), previous studies have not analysed how confident observers are in using forensic anthropological methods on 3D virtual skeletal models. More specifically, if level of experience within the methods will result in higher confidence in applying and analysing such methods on 3D virtual skeletal models.…”

“…Although other studies have looked at the feasibility of the use of 3D virtual skeletal models as proxies for real bone (Grabherr et al, 2009;Colman, 2019;Kuzminsky et al, 2019), not many have looked at the observers confidence in skillsets of transferring osteological and forensic anthropological methods to 3D models. Additionally, most published studies have not focused on the aspect in whether establishing a virtual lab space could be applicable as a learning platform for students.…”