Integrating Customised Video Clips into The Veterinary Nursing Curriculum to Enhance Practical Competency Training and The Development of Student Confidence

Abstract

Competency training is a critical aspect of veterinary nursing education, as graduates must complete a practical competency assessment prior to registration as a veterinary nurse. Despite this absolute requirement for practical training across a range of domestic animal species, there is a lack of  published literature on optimal teaching approaches. 

The aim of this project was to assess the value of customised video clips in the practical skills training of veterinary nursing students. The effectiveness of the intervention in promoting student-centred learning and competency development was evaluated via a qualitative case study incorporating student surveys and focus groups.

The study found customised clips to be a valuable teaching tool. The video library helped address problems such as large class sizes, limited individual instruction time and restricted opportunities to practise skills. Internal student factors that inhibited learning, primarily lack of confidence, were also highlighted. Focus groups were found to be an effective way to obtain insights into the learner experience. They facilitated the identification of hidden learning barriers. Strategies to improve the training of practical competencies based on the findings of this study were identified for veterinary nursing educators.