Steinberg N, Weiss J, Heldmeier G, Exner C. Computer assisted learning as a refinement and reduction alternative [abstract]. ALTEX. 2009;26(Special Issue):213. Abstract 40


Abstract

Computer Assisted Learning has a long standing history in continuing education in laboratory animal science. Some excellent examples for such endeavours are the AALAS, CCAC or LAW- TE web resources and the NORINA database. Here we report on a new tool in assisting specialist education in accordance with European legislation and in view of the 86/609/EWG and ETS123, respectively.

"Experimental Animal Work online" is a BMBF funded project of the BMBF priority "Methods to replace animal experiments". According to the German Animal Welfare Act, every person involved in working with animals is obliged to protect the animals' lives, to promote their well-being and to prevent pain, suffering or damage to these animals. The use of live animals for scientific procedures is ethically only justifiable if these principals are acted upon, but it is still required in safety testing and is a necessity in medical and basic research of the life sciences. Competent handling and proper scientific techniques as well as knowledge about ethics and legislation are crucial for animal welfare, and it is mandatory to ensure quality education in laboratory animal sciences before engaging in practical animal work. For this reason we developed a membership-free, non-fee internet based learning aid, with a zoomable anatomy section (rodents) and 35 videos, as well as information about legislation, ethics and the welfare of laboratory animals. The modular build allows it to be adaptable to different study purposes and target audiences, such as on-the-job training, advanced vocational training and university courses.
 





Link to journal: ALTEX - Alternatives to Animal Experimentation