Learning While in Work: Exploring Influences on Engagement and Achievement in Veterinary Professionals Studying...

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Education
• Online Learning
• Professional Development

Background:

• Remote learning offers flexible professional development for veterinarians and veterinary technicians.
• Online courses provide access to education but may not suit all learning styles.
• Veterinary education increasingly utilizes online platforms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore engagement and learning outcomes in a postgraduate certificate in veterinary education delivered online.
• To identify factors influencing learner engagement in remote veterinary professional development.
• To understand how the workplace environment impacts online learning for veterinary professionals.

Main Methods:

• Thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews with veterinary educators.
• Qualitative study exploring engagement with a postgraduate certificate in veterinary education.
• Focus on faculty, veterinarians, and veterinary nurses/technicians as participants.

Main Results:

• High motivation for engagement was reported, but compromised by low professional autonomy.
• Academic uncertainty and reduced social learning opportunities presented challenges.
• Significant learning occurred through applying taught content to the workplace.
• Learner engagement is supported by social connections, self-direction strategies, and well-being considerations.

Conclusions:

• The workplace is an integral part of the online learning environment for veterinary professionals.
• Educators should integrate workplace learning and support professional autonomy.
• Interventions fostering social connections and self-directed learning enhance online veterinary education outcomes.