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Staff relations and work-life balance: course outline
A Harvey1, D Durrance, G Couger
1Changes: The Support for People and Pets Program, Colorado State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital, 300 West Drake Road, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1620, USA.
Journal of Veterinary Medical Education
|September 13, 2001
Summary
Veterinary students can improve staff relations and work-life balance through a new elective course. This program addresses key skills like team building and stress management for a healthier veterinary workforce.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medical Education
- Workforce Psychology
Background:
- The American veterinary workforce faces evolving challenges.
- There is an increasing demand for improved staff relations and work-life balance in veterinary medicine.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact of a specialized elective course on veterinary students.
- To equip junior veterinary students with essential skills for professional and personal well-being.
Main Methods:
- A 20-hour, one-week elective course was developed and delivered to junior veterinary students.
- The curriculum included lectures and discussions on team building, conflict resolution, stress management, and work-life balance.
- Master's level counselors served as instructors.
Main Results:
- The course provided a dedicated forum for students to engage with critical soft skills.
- Topics covered are directly relevant to modern veterinary practice challenges.
- Student participation fostered discussion on interpersonal dynamics and personal well-being.
Conclusions:
- Educational interventions focusing on staff relations and work-life balance are crucial for veterinary students.
- This elective course model can enhance preparedness for the demands of the veterinary profession.
- Integrating such topics into veterinary curricula supports a more sustainable and balanced workforce.