Sanil Singh and Lucinda Johns A survey of postgraduate biomedical students in their understanding of an introductory Laboratory Animal Science Sanil Singh and Lucinda Johns

Introduction The use of animal experimentation is to advance scientific knowledge In excess of 20 million lab animals used globally Education in LAS needs to be strength - Rozemond (1991); Shehnaz & Agarwal (2013) The focus of ethical use of animals for research purposes is underpinned by 3 R’s

Rationale To Explore the knowledge of LAS amongst post graduate Biomedical student at UKZN Prior to the Introductory LAS module Post to the Introductory LAS module To explore the effectiveness of the introductory course in conveying the basic understanding and principles of LAS and learning outcomes.

Literature Review A study by Carlsson et al. (2001) explored the responses of undergraduate and postgraduate students to mandatory FELASA C courses Publication by Sheehan & Agarwal (2013) focused on the importance of training postgraduates students in medical schools in India. Kimwele, Matheka and Ferdowsian (2011) study that looked at training and regulation of animal use in Kenya SAALAS Eco communications

Methodology Sample n=30 B.Sc. Hons and M.Sc. Designed Questionnaire Informed Consent with confidentiality Administered Prior to initial lecture and on completion of course Thematic Analysis QSR NVIVO 1O (Data Management Software)

Findings –Prior to Course LAS focuses on scientific animal research “the animals are used for scientific research only” ‘This is program/course that uses animal models in scientific research.” “My understanding of LAS is that it is important in regulating the use of animals for scientific research.”

Findings –Prior to Course Animals are useful in achieving research goals “The use of animal research is to understand the biological process.” Animals as victims of research ‘Animals research allows scientists the opportunity the further their studies in both the medical and scientific fields.” Developing competency and confidence in research techniques “It will help me understand the process and techniques that need to be followed.”

Findings – Post Course Treatment of lab animals in an ethical manner “ They are treated in such a manner that is in accordance with university ethics committee and animal cruelty act of SA’.’ The welfare of the animals always comes first because they have rights.” “It is the use of animals for research under specific conditions that care for the animals wellbeing.”

Findings – Post Course Increased awareness of animal ethics and welfare “Provided me with knowledge on the proper treatment and care for animals.” Improved understanding humane endpoints and euthanasia “I thought euthanasia was a murder. I was wrong, euthanasia is sign of respect and also an ethical procedure.” Acquired new technical skills “This course has been able to improve my abilities of animal handling and animal management.’

Researcher Reflections Limited integration of 3 R’s Overall improvement in learning outcomes Greater use of media, group discussion and activities that require critical application of knowledge.

Recommendation Further Research into teaching methods and outcomes Introductory course at the UG level Nationally Mandatory –FELASA C at the PG

References Rozemond,H. (1991). Veterinarians and their use of laboratory animals. Praktische Tierarzt, 72, 892-894. Shehnaz, S.I. & Agarwal,A.K. (2013). A structured course in laboratory animal science for postgraduates: Is it a necessity?. Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacotherapeutics,4,1, 67-68. Gershoff, S.N. (2009). Animal experiementation – a personal view. Nutrition Reviews, 67, 95-99

Reference cont. Carlsson et al. (2001) explored the responses of undergraduate and postgraduate students to mandatory FELASA C courses

Gratitude School of LMMS Dr Linda Bester and Ritta Radebe Biomedical Resources Unit Sooraj Baijnath - School of Health Sciences