Virtual case-based clinical teaching

Learn how virtual cases enhances diagnostic reasoning and decision-making skills, bridging the gap between theory and practice for veterinarian students.

Teacher: Mette Schjærff & Anne Marie Fog Sandal

At the conference *Make a Difference: Teach and Learn with Technology*, Mette Schjærff presented their study on the effectiveness of virtual case-based clinical teaching for veterinary students.

This presentation highlighted how virtual case-based teaching enhances clinical reasoning by allowing students to actively engage with simulated cases and make diagnostic decisions. Given that many students struggle to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations, this approach bridges the gap between theory and practice.

The study, involving 35 students working through online cases followed by oral presentations and feedback, aims to strengthen diagnostic reasoning before clinical rotations. Preliminary findings suggest that this method significantly improves decision-making skills, preparing students for real-world veterinary practice.

Watch the presentation from the conference, Make a Difference, 2023:

Slides Clinical Cases General clinical practice

What was your motivation?

The motivation behind this approach to Virtual case-based clinical teaching comes from the challenge many veterinary students face in applying theoretical knowledge to real-world clinical situations. Clinical reasoning is a critical skill for diagnosing and making informed decisions for patients, yet traditional teaching methods often fall short in bridging the gap between theory and practice.

Recognizing this gap, the researchers sought to create an interactive and immersive learning experience that would better prepare students for clinical rotations. Virtual case-based teaching allows students to engage with realistic cases, actively make diagnostic decisions, and receive structured feedback, fostering a deeper understanding of clinical processes. Their goal was to enhance students’ confidence and competence in decision-making before they transition into real patient care.