Experiences Introducing a Team-Based Knowledge Summary to Student Veterinary Nurses/Veterinary Technicians.

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Education
• Evidence-Based Practice
• Clinical Skills Development

Background:

• Veterinarians and veterinary nurses must base decisions on current, objective evidence.
• Critical appraisal of evidence and integration with clinical expertise are crucial for informed decision-making.
• Traditional veterinary nursing education requires innovative assessment methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the design and implementation of a knowledge summary and peer feedback assessment for third-year veterinary nursing students.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of this assessment in developing higher-order cognitive skills and evidence-based practice.
• To encourage the adoption of this assessment method in veterinary education.

Main Methods:

• Implemented a summative assessment involving knowledge summaries and peer feedback for third-year veterinary nursing students.
• Discussed underlying educational theories and practical implementation details.
• Collected and analyzed student and faculty feedback on the assessment method.

Main Results:

• Student feedback was largely positive, highlighting the assessment's value in answering clinical questions practically and in an evidence-based format.
• The assessment was considered good preparation for final-year research and literature reviews.
• Faculty feedback indicated the assessment successfully improved constructive alignment and fostered higher-order cognitive skills.

Conclusions:

• The knowledge summary and peer feedback assessment effectively enhances veterinary nursing students' critical appraisal and evidence-based decision-making skills.
• This innovative assessment method is directly transferable to veterinary practice and prepares students for advanced academic work.
• Adoption of this assessment is encouraged to develop interpersonal skills and challenge traditional veterinary practices.