Usefulness of a Computer-Aided Learning Module for Teaching Radiology of the Equine Foot to Clinical Veterinary Students.

This research investigates the utility of a Computer-Aided Learning (CAL) application in teaching veterinary students how to identify normal and pathological anatomy in horse foot radiographs. The study found the low-cost CAL module significantly increased students’ confidence in recognising pathology and in selecting radiographic views for diagnosing specific pathologies.

Overview of the Research

• This study is centered on developing a cost-effective Computer-Aid Learning (CAL) module aimed at teaching veterinary students about the radiology of the equine foot – specifically, the recognition of normal anatomy and pathology, as well as the selection of appropriate radiographic views for disease investigation.
• The catalyst for the study is the increasing prevalence of lameness in horses due to foot problems, a condition often investigated through radiographic imaging which necessitates appropriate knowledge in equine foot radiology.

Research Problem and Questions

• The research sought to answer two main questions: Can a useful CAL module be developed at low or no cost, and will this module help improve students’ confidence levels?
• The questions were driven by the need to facilitate effective teaching of equine foot radiology to veterinary students in a cost-effective manner.

The CAL Module Development and Testing

• The CAL tool, completed at no cost, was crafted with the idea that similar modules can be replicated on low or no budget.
• The knowledge areas covered in the module included recognition of normal anatomy, identification of disease, and selection of appropriate radiographic views for diagnosing specified pathologies.
• The module’s effectiveness was assessed by comparing students’ confidence levels before and after using it. The results illustrated a significant boost in the students’ confidence to identify disease and to choose radiographic views for investigating specific pathologies.

Conclusion of the Research

• Overall, the research concluded that a useful CAL module for teaching the anatomy and pathology of the equine foot on radiographs can be produced at low-to-no cost and can increase students’ confidence in some of the investigated areas.
• Additionally, the study found that the students reacted positively to the CAL module, affirming its usefulness in its intended purpose.