Interactive computerized learning program exposes veterinary students to challenging international animal-health problems.

The research involved the creation of an interactive computerized learning program to expose veterinary students to various global animal health concerns. This provided them with a unique platform to encounter and attempt to resolve complex disease problems from a global perspective.

Program Development and Execution

• The content creators developed a computerized, case-based CD-ROM on international animal health. This actionable project allowed the students to have a virtual, immersive experience, where they could engage with their counterparts and veterinarians globally while dealing with complex animal diseases.
• The research work revolved around three main case modules: tuberculosis in South Africa’s wildlife, bovine abortion in Mexico, and neurologic disease in horses located in Rapa Nui, Chile. Each case presented a unique problem or mystery to be solved by the learner in a highly interactive environment.
• The learning mechanisms included obtaining information through video clips and textual content, learning about different countries, unique animal-management practices, economic factors, diagnostic methods, disease-control issues, and gaining expert opinions.
• After assimilating all this information, the onus was on the learner to define the problem accurately, formulate an action plan, and make a diagnosis or recommendation.

Principles of Adult Education Applied

• The learning program relied on three foundational principles of adult education: active learning, learner-centered education, and experiential learning.
• Active learning was initiated by encouraging learners to actively participate in each case by understanding, defining, and attempting to solve the problem.
• Learner-centered education was promoted by designing the program such that every single student had a chance to be involved and navigate through the varied case modules.
• Experiential learning was accommodated by presenting situations that mirrored the real world, giving students firsthand experience in dealing with the challenges.

Program Accessibility

• This program was accessible to the learners via the internet on the World Wide Web, making use of widely available technology and internet services.
• A broadband Internet connection was recommended for optimal viewing as the modules extensively used embedded video and audio clips to enhance the learning experience.
• Information on how to obtain the CD of the program was also provided, offering an alternative mode of access to the program.

Potential Impact

• These types of programs could provide an efficient learning tool and template in the development of other case-based problem-solving computerized programs, thereby enhancing the e-learning environment for veterinary students.