Making clinical case-based learning in veterinary medicine visible: analysis of collaborative concept-mapping...

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Educational Psychology

Background:

• Collaborative concept mapping is recognized for enhancing understanding of complex scientific concepts.
• However, the specific learning processes during concept map construction, particularly in clinical veterinary medicine, are less understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate collaborative learning processes during real-time concept mapping of clinical cases by veterinary students.
• To explore student and teacher reflections on the value of concept mapping as an educational tool.

Main Methods:

• The study involved two parts: analyzing cognitive and metacognitive processes of student groups with different learning outcomes.
• The second part involved exploring student and teacher perceptions of concept mapping's utility.

Main Results:

• Significant differences in learning engagement were observed between groups, linked to time spent on understanding and co-constructing knowledge.
• Student and teacher perceptions of concept mapping's value showed both agreement and disagreement.

Conclusions:

• Concept mapping is relevant to clinical case-based learning in veterinary medicine.
• Further research is needed to fully understand and optimize its use in this context.