As a Workbook with Assignments for Every Course

As proponents of critical thinking, we begin using case studies during the first semester of study. Using the case studies early in the curriculum has helped our students understand the application and relevance of lecture material.

For example, our students were much more likely to memorize anatomy of the kidney (from lectures) when the information was linked to a workbook assignment involving glomerulonephritis in a cat. We typically assign 3-5 cases studies per course. Students are told which cases they must complete very early in the semester, but the assignments are not collected until after the basic content area has been covered in lecture. Students are expected to complete the case studies in a self-directed manner (using references provided for each case) on their own time. Once assignments have been collected the cases are discussed in class.

Using the text in this manner has allowed us to incorporate case studies into every course in our curriculum. As an added benefit; our students save a significant amount of money because the text is used in almost every class.

For Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE) Preparation

For many individuals, VTNE preparation amounts to mass memorization of multiple choice questions. Although familiarity with multiple choice testing format is appropriate; the use of such questions to drive study content is ill-advised. Students should be encouraged to review material in a holistic, inter-active format with particular attention being paid to AVMA identified skills. Using Case Studies in Veterinary Technology for VTNE preparation assures that students will:

1. •Address all AVMA skills
   

2. •Be well prepared in all areas of study
   

3. •Remain interactive learners who understand application of the knowledge base.
   

As a Text for a Capstone Course

Capstone courses are designed to be a culminating educational experience that provides students an opportunity to demonstrate attainment of program learning objectives. Offered during the final semester of study, they integrate material from all program courses/areas of study, and focus on application of the knowledge base. Case Studies in Veterinary Technology embraces this learning methodology, and provides a student-centered, student driven text for study.  Use of a large array of clinical cases (160 cases) assures that all the cognitive, affective and psychomotor skills required of the veterinary technician are addressed.