Practical and innovative solutions to overcome language barriers in veterinary and animal science education in the European Union

Abstract

Academic mobility and cultural diversity have continuously increased in higher education in recent years. Consequently, the language barrier has become an important issue in the learning process, mainly in Europe where there are 24 official languages. In animal and veterinary sciences, the complexity of vocabulary used during the learning process exacerbates this problem. To overcome this problem, lecturers must create an interactive and engaging classroom atmosphere, provide a reduced and concise lecture and promote interaction between students through the promotion of discussion. The use of e-tools also contributes to student interaction. When teaching animal biological processes, hands-on laboratory exercises and case-based activities also help overcome language barriers between students and lecturers. Lecturers need to create an interactive classroom through the use of direct and concise language and new technologies to promote learning in international classrooms.

Student Experiences of Practical Activities During the COVID-19 Pandemic

“…They are also much less convinced that they can "do more" after completing take-home kit activities, and less likely to want to perform these activities at home. This might be due to a language barrier that is less easy to overcome with written instructions rather than verbal staff-student interactions during an in-lab activity [21], as well as the culturally different teaching styles that students may be used to. In fact, one of the non-native students suggested: "It would be better if you demonstrate how the machine is supposed to work, not only in the text".…”

Promoting Active Learning and Student Engagement in Two Different Graduate Courses for Veterinary and Animal Sciences: Cases From Mexico and Denmark

“…The second case for discussion is from the Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences of the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, from the University of Copenhagen, which is among the 7 best universities in the world in Veterinary Science according to the QS World University Rankings 2021 1 Bachelor and master's programs for veterinary medicine are taught in Danish and for the animal science program, bachelor is taught in Danish and master's in English (18).…”