Ethics teaching in European veterinary schools: a qualitative case study

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Education
• Ethics in Veterinary Medicine

Background:

• Veterinary ethics is a key undergraduate topic, yet curriculum content and teaching methods lack consensus.
• Limited research exists on the diverse approaches to veterinary ethics education in European veterinary schools.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the diversity of veterinary ethics teaching topics in European veterinary schools.
• To propose a conceptual model for veterinary ethics education to inform curriculum development and ethical practice.

Main Methods:

• A case study approach analyzing syllabi and interviewing educators at three European veterinary schools (Copenhagen, Lisbon, Nottingham).
• Data collected during the 2010-2011 academic year.

Main Results:

• Veterinary ethics curricula are multidimensional, encompassing scientific, regulatory, professional, and philosophical subjects.
• Some topics may not be explicitly stated in course descriptors.

Conclusions:

• A conceptual model for veterinary ethics teaching is proposed, integrating animal welfare science, laws/regulations, professionalism, and theories/concepts.
• This model aims to enhance future curriculum development and support ethical decision-making in veterinary practice.