Veterinary Student Experience and Learning Using a 4D Electrocardiogram Simulator

Cardiac electrophysiology and electrocardiogram (ECG) interpretation present challenges for veterinary and medical education. Various resources and simulators exist to address this challenge. This study investigates the impact on learning and student experience of Epicardio Simulation™-VET in a UK undergraduate veterinary curriculum. This multi-method study invited students at the University of Liverpool School of Veterinary Science to complete a survey, comprising Likert-type and free-text questions, exploring their Epicardio experience. A case-control study used a pre- and post-learning quiz to compare learning gain in a self-directed clinical rotation ECG tutorial between a group learning with Epicardio and one learning with traditional resources. Survey responses were generally positive, with median scores of 4/5, except in response to the statement "Epicardio is easy to navigate" (Mdn 3/5), and "Epicardio workshops should replace traditional lectures" (Mdn 2/5; considerable variability in responses). Students also varied on whether "the tutorials were easy to follow." Thematic analysis identified positive themes around application, clarification, visualization, interactivity, formative assessment, and user-friendliness. Negative themes highlighted technical difficulties including navigation and structure of the software, as well as curricular integration. The case-control study showed learning gains in both groups and no difference between groups before or after the self-directed tutorial. Students valued Epicardio as an additional learning tool and learned equally well with Epicardio and traditional resources in a self-directed format.