The AALAS Learning Library and its effectiveness as a tool for technician training

Area of Science:

• Laboratory Animal Science
• Veterinary Education
• Scientific Training

Background:

• Computer-based training offers a flexible approach to skill development in specialized fields.
• The AALAS Learning Library (ALL) has been a key online resource for laboratory animal science education since 2003.
• It is frequently utilized for both technician certification and Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC)-mandated training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of the AALAS Learning Library (ALL) for general training.
• To assess the ALL's efficacy as a tool for achieving technician certification.
• To review online course usage and exam completion data within the ALL system.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of user access data for various ALL courses.
• Review of exam completion rates within the online learning modules.
• Correlation of ALL usage statistics with technician certification examination pass rates.

Main Results:

• The AALAS Learning Library (ALL) demonstrates high user engagement across different course types.
• Exam completion rates indicate successful knowledge acquisition through the online modules.
• A positive correlation was observed between ALL usage and higher pass rates in technician certification exams.

Conclusions:

• The AALAS Learning Library (ALL) is a highly effective training platform for laboratory animal science.
• The ALL system is particularly beneficial for preparing technicians for certification examinations.
• Online learning through the ALL contributes significantly to professional development and compliance in animal research settings.