An immersive simulation strategy to teach canine vaginal cytology: A multi-centre study

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Reproductive Biology
• Educational Technology

Background:

• Vaginal cytology (VC) is crucial for monitoring the canine estrus cycle.
• Current teaching methods for VC lack animal-free approaches.
• There is a need for innovative, hands-on learning tools in veterinary education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate an immersive simulation using a VC model and augmented reality (AR) for teaching vaginal cytology.
• To assess the impact of this simulation on veterinary students' confidence, motivation, and diagnostic skills.
• To determine the effectiveness of AR tools in enhancing the learning experience for VC.

Main Methods:

• An immersive simulation with VC models and AR tools was implemented for 219 veterinary students.
• Students practiced VC at learning stations with immediate feedback.
• AR components included QR codes linking to avatar-led case histories and microscopy slide navigation videos.

Main Results:

• The simulation significantly improved students' confidence and reduced their fear of performing VC on live animals.
• AR-enhanced slide navigation videos improved diagnostic accuracy for estrus cycle stages and vaginitis.
• Students found repeated practice in a safe, standardized environment essential for learning VC.

Conclusions:

• Immersive simulation with AR is an effective, animal-free methodology for teaching vaginal cytology.
• This approach enhances student confidence, practical skills, and diagnostic accuracy in reproductive examinations.
• The strategy provides a safe, motivating, and standardized learning environment, highly valued by students.