3D wildlife skull models for wildlife veterinary training

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Anatomy
• Wildlife Medicine
• 3D Printing Technology

Background:

• Wildlife veterinarians play a crucial role in managing zoonotic diseases and species conservation.
• There is increasing demand for zoo and wildlife medicine specialists, leading to higher enrollment in veterinary programs.
• Universities face challenges in providing practical training with wild animal specimens for wildlife medicine education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of 3D printed skull models in teaching anatomical and behavioral aspects of wildlife species.
• To compare the understanding efficiency between veterinary students using 3D printed models and those using traditional methods.

Main Methods:

• A study involving 85 third-year veterinary students divided into experimental (using 3D printed skulls) and control groups.
• Utilized 3D printed skull models of four wildlife species: kinkajou, white-nosed coati, northern anteater, and nine-banded armadillo.
• Assessed understanding through four evaluated variables, comparing scores between the two groups.

Main Results:

• The experimental group, utilizing 3D printed skulls, achieved higher scores in three out of the four evaluated variables compared to the control group.
• Demonstrated superior comprehension of anatomical and behavioral aspects among students using 3D models.
• Indicated that 3D printed skulls are a promising and effective educational tool.

Conclusions:

• 3D printed wildlife skulls are a valuable and effective teaching tool for veterinary students in wildlife medicine.
• This technology offers a cost-effective, accurate, and durable alternative to real specimens for educational purposes.
• Encouraging the use of 3D printed models is vital for training future wildlife professionals and updating current practitioners.