Development and evaluation of a virtual slaughterhouse simulator for training and educating veterinary students

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Public Health
• Veterinary Education Technology

Background:

• Veterinary public health (VPH) training is crucial for safeguarding animal welfare and public health.
• Abattoir placements are vital for UK veterinary undergraduate education but face placement availability issues.
• The Virtual Slaughterhouse Simulator (VSS) was developed to supplement traditional VPH teaching methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the Virtual Slaughterhouse Simulator (VSS) as an educational tool for veterinary students.
• To assess the VSS's effectiveness in enhancing knowledge and behavior related to abattoir procedures.
• To gather student feedback on their experience using the VSS.

Main Methods:

• Ninety-eight final-year veterinary students interacted with the VSS prototype.
• Student knowledge and behavior were assessed in simulated real-life abattoir scenarios.
• Questionnaires and focus groups were used for further evaluation of student experiences.

Main Results:

• The VSS demonstrates potential for improving student learning of basic abattoir procedures.
• The simulator serves as a valuable visual learning resource.
• The VSS can support traditional teaching methods and facilitate interactive problem-solving.

Conclusions:

• The Virtual Slaughterhouse Simulator is a promising tool for enhancing veterinary public health education.
• The VSS offers a flexible and accessible way for students to engage with abattoir environments and procedures.
• This technology can bridge gaps in practical training and improve preparedness for future veterinary professionals.