Students’ experiences of blended laboratory animal science courses

Abstract

Students and course providers have found online options for laboratory animal science (LAS) courses helpful because the content is accessible with flexible timing options. This study aimed to explore whether a blended LAS course with video lectures would be preferred and perceived effective, accounting for students’ educational levels as well as prior experiences and future expectations in the use of animals. Data were collected by a feedback survey including three 5-Likert type scales and open-ended questions created by the authors. Of the 134 course students from various programmes, 101 consented to the use of their responses in this study. The analyses indicated that the respondents were generally satisfied with the blended course, especially the hands-on components, even though some found video lectures challenging due to their own ineffective time and study management skills. Plans to use animals in the future increased satisfaction with the course significantly, while the education level or previous experience with animals did not affect the outcome. Background variables did not affect views about video lectures significantly. Conclusively, the blended structure seemed to provide sustainable LAS course experiences for normal and unpredictable times.