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Veterinary Student Knowledge, Attitudes, and Perspectives on Differing Viewpoints Regarding Pain Management After a
Kathryn L Proudfoot1, Lucía Améndola1, Monique Pairis-Garcia2
1Health Management, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada.
Journal of Veterinary Medical Education
|June 23, 2025
Summary
Role-play case studies improved veterinary students' understanding and attitudes toward animal pain management. This educational approach fostered critical thinking on complex welfare issues, enhancing learning outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Education
- Animal Welfare Science
- Pain Management in Animals
Background:
- Case studies are crucial for developing critical thinking in veterinary students.
- Limited research exists on the impact of case studies on student attitudes towards animal welfare issues.
- Understanding student perceptions of pain and pain management is vital for improving animal care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effect of a piglet castration role-play case study on veterinary students' knowledge, confidence, and attitudes regarding animal pain.
- To assess students' self-reflection on diverse viewpoints concerning pain and its management in animals.
- To determine if this educational intervention influences attitudes toward pigs and pain management practices.
Main Methods:
- First-year veterinary students participated in a 4-week piglet castration case study involving group work and role-playing.
- Quantitative data collected via pre- and post-case quizzes and surveys (n=128).
- Qualitative data gathered through written reflections (n=133) analyzed thematically; quantitative data analyzed using paired t-tests and Cochran's Q tests.
Main Results:
- Students achieved an 8.6% higher score on post-case quizzes, indicating improved knowledge recall.
- Attitudes toward pigs and the feasibility of pain management in pigs showed slight positive shifts.
- Thematic analysis of reflections revealed themes of preconceptions, changing views, navigating perspectives, and key learning points.
Conclusions:
- Role-play case studies can effectively enhance veterinary students' learning and reflection on complex animal welfare topics, specifically pain management.
- This method supports the development of critical thinking and nuanced understanding of animal pain.
- Educational interventions incorporating case studies are valuable for shaping future veterinary professionals' attitudes and practices in animal welfare.
