Development and Application of an Interactive Neuropathology iBook as a Complementary Learning Tool for Veterinary...

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Pathology
• Medical Education Technology
• Neuropathology

Background:

• Neuropathology presents a significant learning challenge for medical students.
• Gamified learning tools can potentially enhance student motivation and knowledge acquisition in complex subjects.
• Digital learning resources are increasingly being explored to supplement traditional veterinary pathology curricula.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a gamified Neuropathology iBook (NP-iB) for veterinary students.
• To assess the impact of the NP-iB on students' ability to recognize and diagnose common non-neoplastic brain diseases in domestic animals.
• To test the hypothesis that NP-iB usage improves diagnostic accuracy and leads to higher test scores.

Main Methods:

• Development of a 10-chapter interactive Neuropathology iBook (NP-iB) covering clinical signs, pathology, and pathogenesis.
• Implementation in a systemic pathology course at Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine.
• A post-test only control group design with 300 students across two semesters (Fall 2017, Spring 2018); NP-iB usage tracked via embedded questions.

Main Results:

• 17% (n=51) of students used the NP-iB, with 90% reporting positive perceptions.
• No statistically significant difference in median test scores between NP-iB users and non-users.
• Significant test score differences correlated with NP-iB usage time (p = .005); prolonged use (>3 hours) was associated with lower scores on non-NP-iB neuropathology questions.

Conclusions:

• The developed Neuropathology iBook (NP-iB) was well-received but did not demonstrate a significant positive impact on overall learning outcomes.
• Extended engagement with the NP-iB may negatively affect performance on related neuropathology topics not covered by the tool.
• Further research is needed to optimize digital learning tools for veterinary neuropathology education and understand factors influencing their effectiveness.