Developing an online professional network for veterinary education: the NOVICE project

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Education
• Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
• Online Professional Networks

Background:

• Lifelong learning is crucial for veterinary professionals.
• Traditional professional communities face challenges like distance and cost.
• Web 2.0 technologies offer new avenues for professional interaction and knowledge sharing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an online professional network for veterinarians and ICT educationalists.
• To leverage Web 2.0 tools for enhanced information access and contact establishment.
• To address challenges of traditional communities and promote informal, lifelong learning in veterinary education.

Main Methods:

• Development of the Network Of Veterinary ICt in Education (NOVICE) using Elgg, an open-source social networking platform.
• Focus groups with veterinarians and veterinary students in five European countries.
• Incorporation of Web 2.0 tools like wikis, blogs, and discussion boards.

Main Results:

• Focus groups confirmed the value of online communities for information access and networking.
• The NOVICE network successfully registered 515 members from 28 countries within five months of launch.
• The platform aims to increase understanding and confidence in using social software tools for professional development.

Conclusions:

• Online professional networks can effectively support lifelong learning in veterinary contexts.
• The NOVICE network demonstrates the potential of Web 2.0 to overcome geographical and logistical barriers.
• Further research will analyze user activity to guide future development and support for informal learning.