Survey of students’ learning experience using a virtual slaughterhouse simulator in three UK veterinary schools during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Background: Although visiting an abattoir is mandatory for all UK veterinary students, this was challenging during the COVID-19 pandemic and virtual simulators were temporarily approved by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons. Subsequently, the virtual slaughterhouse simulator (VSS) was used by the University of Nottingham School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, the University of Liverpool School of Veterinary Science and the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies in Edinburgh. This study aimed to evaluate the student learning experience using the VSS. Methods: An online survey containing satisfaction and assessment questions was distributed to all final-year students who used the VSS from September 2020 to August 2021. Results: A total of 207 students completed the survey (n = 207/488, 42%). Students were mostly highly satisfied and found the VSS very useful for their learning (n = 164/207,79%); however, anxiety levels to visit a real abattoir lowered for less than half of the students (n = 97/207, 46%). Most students obtained an overall mark over 50% in the assessment questions (n = 197/207, 95%). Limitations: Although the findings were very positive, extrapolation to other veterinary schools and postgraduate curricula should be done cautiously. Conclusion: The VSS is a valid tool for training veterinary students. However, more research is advised to compare virtual and real experiences and assess students' long-term performance.