1. 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

2. 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

3. 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.

4. 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

5. 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)

6. 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.”

7. 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.”

8. 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.”

9. 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.’

10. 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.

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

12. References
Rozemond,H. (1991). Veterinarians and their use of laboratory animals. Praktische Tierarzt, 72,
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,
Gershoff, S.N. (2009). Animal experiementation – a personal view. Nutrition Reviews, 67, 95-99

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

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