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Student Perceptions of Preparation and Competency Development During Extramural Clinical Rotations in Germany: An
Sandra V Kielmann1,2, Roswitha Merle1, Jörg R Aschenbach3
1Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163 Berlin, Germany.
Veterinary Sciences
|July 28, 2026
Summary
Extramural clinical rotations (ECR) in German veterinary education are valued, but students often feel unprepared for practical skills like surgery. Improving structured feedback and practical training is key for enhancing student preparedness during ECR.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Education
- Clinical Skills Training
- Medical Training Assessment
Background:
- Extramural clinical rotations (ECR) are essential for veterinary students in Germany to gain practical experience.
- Student preparedness and the quality of teaching during ECR significantly impact learning outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess veterinary students' perceived preparedness for ECR.
- To evaluate the quality of practical teaching during ECR.
- To identify key factors influencing students' choice of ECR placements.
Main Methods:
- An online survey was administered to 386 veterinary students in Germany who completed their practical year between 2022 and 2025.
- Data analysis focused on perceived preparedness, teaching quality, and factors influencing ECR selection.
Main Results:
- Students highly value direct supervision and feedback meetings when selecting ECR placements.
- Over 50% of students felt inadequately prepared for surgery, with varying levels of preparedness for propaedeutics and examinations.
- Despite preparedness gaps, 75% of students rated the practical teaching quality positively, though specific examinations and diagnostic imaging require improvement.
Conclusions:
- ECR are generally viewed positively by veterinary students in Germany.
- A significant gap exists between students' perceived preparedness and the demands of ECR, particularly in surgical and specific examination skills.
- Further research is recommended to optimize ECR curricula, potentially by increasing focus on practical skill development.
