Interactive computerized learning program exposes veterinary students to challenging international animal-health...

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Education
• International Animal Health
• Digital Learning Tools

Background:

• Traditional veterinary education may lack exposure to diverse international animal health challenges.
• The need for interactive, problem-based learning tools in veterinary medicine is growing.
• Limited access to real-world, complex case studies in global animal disease scenarios.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the development and features of a computerized case-based CD-ROM for international animal health education.
• To provide veterinary students with a virtual platform to engage with complex disease problems.
• To create an interactive learning tool that incorporates principles of adult education.

Main Methods:

• Development of a CD-ROM featuring three interactive case modules: wildlife tuberculosis, bovine abortion, and equine neurologic disease.
• Integration of diverse information sources including video clips, text, country-specific data, and expert opinions.
• Application of adult learning principles: active, learner-centered, and experiential learning.

Main Results:

• The CD-ROM offers a simulated environment for students to diagnose and manage animal diseases.
• Learners interact with comprehensive information on disease, management, diagnostics, and socio-economic factors.
• The program successfully models problem-solving scenarios for international animal health issues.

Conclusions:

• The developed CD-ROM serves as an efficient and effective learning tool for veterinary students.
• This case-based, computerized approach can be a template for future problem-solving educational programs.
• The interactive digital medium enhances the understanding of global animal health challenges and veterinary practice.