Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 7, 2025
13:42
Clinical Examination Protocol to Detect Atypical and Classical Scrapie in Sheep
Published on: January 19, 2014
13.2K
Exploring the potential of using simulation games for engaging with sheep farmers about lameness recognition
Matt L Jones1, Maxwell S Barnish2, Robert R Hughes3
1European Centre for the Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Knowledge Spa, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Truro, United Kingdom.
Frontiers in Veterinary Science
|March 13, 2023
Summary
A new simulation game aims to help sheep farmers detect lameness. While not realistic enough for all, it revealed insights into real-world lameness recognition practices.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural technology
- Animal husbandry
- Veterinary science
Background:
- Computer simulation games are increasingly utilized in agriculture to study and influence farming practices.
- Reducing lameness in sheep is a significant challenge in the UK livestock industry.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the potential of a developed simulation game as a tool for assessing, training, and understanding farmers' ability to recognize early signs of sheep lameness.
- To engage sheep farmers in addressing the challenge of lameness reduction through an interactive simulation.
Main Methods:
- An online study involving UK sheep farmers who played a simulation game designed to identify lame sheep.
- Mixed methods analysis, including quantitative linear modeling of in-game scores against farming experience and qualitative thematic analysis of participant feedback.
Main Results:
- No significant relationships were found between farmers' recall scores and their real-life experience or lameness recognition strategies.
- A positive correlation was observed between in-game recall scores and the time spent playing the game.
- Qualitative feedback indicated the game lacked realism and engagement for some, but participants offered valuable insights into real-world lameness recognition.
Conclusions:
- Simulation games show promise for livestock education and research in animal husbandry.
- Enhancing the realism and engagement of simulation games is crucial for their effective adoption in agricultural settings.
- Further research with increased funding and collaboration with farmers and veterinarians is recommended to explore the full potential of these tools.
