A New Online Hands-on Practical Training Method Suitable for COVID-19 Social Distancing Regulations

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Online Education
• Agricultural Sciences

Background:

• The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic necessitated social distancing, impacting traditional veterinary education.
• Existing online veterinary training primarily relies on passive video observation, lacking practical skill development.
• Effective methods for conveying experimental and practical lessons in veterinary subjects online remain a significant challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and implement a novel online hands-on practical training method for veterinary students.
• To address the limitations of current online learning in veterinary education.
• To provide effective remote practical training for animal clinical veterinarians and instructors.

Main Methods:

• Students engaged with live or asynchronous video demonstrations of hands-on practices by instructors using a capture board.
• Student learning environments were transmitted via webcam, displayed on a large screen for instructor feedback.
• This facilitated real-time, interactive online instruction and guidance.

Main Results:

• The implemented method allowed students to learn and practice hands-on veterinary skills through an online format.
• Instructors could observe student progress and provide direct online instructions, enhancing the learning experience.
• This trial demonstrated the potential for novel, interactive hands-on training online.

Conclusions:

• The developed online training method offers a viable solution for practical veterinary education amidst social distancing requirements.
• This approach can bridge the gap in remote learning for essential hands-on skills in veterinary medicine.
• Yamaguchi University's innovative methods have broader applicability to other educational fields requiring practical training.