CTC Students Gain Hands-On Anatomy Experience

Central Texas College's Anatomy and Physiology course emphasizes experiential learning through sheep brain dissection.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 12:19am

A bold, colorful silkscreen print featuring a grid of medical instruments like scalpels and stethoscopes, representing the hands-on approach to learning in the CTC Anatomy lab.Hands-on learning with medical tools inspires the next generation of healthcare professionals at Central Texas College.Killeen Today

Students in Central Texas College's Anatomy and Physiology course recently participated in a hands-on lab dissecting a sheep brain to better understand neuroanatomy. The students claim the experience helped them connect classroom knowledge with real-world application while developing critical observation and analytical skills. The lab also inspired students pursuing healthcare careers, reinforcing the importance of discipline, curiosity, and experiential learning in achieving their goals.

Why it matters

Hands-on, experiential learning is a key component of preparing students for careers in healthcare and other science-related fields. By providing opportunities to apply classroom concepts in a practical setting, programs like CTC's Anatomy and Physiology course help students develop the critical thinking and problem-solving abilities needed to succeed in these in-demand professions.

The details

During the sheep brain dissection lab, CTC students were able to observe the structure and function of the brain firsthand, gaining a deeper understanding of neuroanatomy that would be difficult to achieve through lectures and textbooks alone. The hands-on experience allowed them to hone their observation, analysis, and manual dexterity skills - all essential for future healthcare roles.

  • The Anatomy and Physiology students recently participated in the sheep brain dissection lab.

The players

Central Texas College

A community college located in Killeen, Texas that offers associate degree programs, including in the field of healthcare.

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The takeaway

Experiential learning opportunities like the sheep brain dissection lab at CTC's Anatomy and Physiology course help prepare students for careers in healthcare and other science-related fields by allowing them to apply classroom concepts in a practical, hands-on setting.