AVAR Participates in International Alternatives Conference- May 2005
Susan Krebsbach, D.V.M., veterinary consultant for AVAR, participated in The 2nd International Network for Humane Education (InterNICHE) Conference entitled, “Alternatives in the Mainstream: Innovations in Life Science Education and Training.” Held in Oslo, Norway from May 12–15, 2005, this conference had over 100 attendees representing 33 different countries. The conference was an inspiring event at the cutting-edge of educational innovation and practice. One of the only international conferences on advanced learning tools and alternatives to animal experiments in education, it included leading international speakers, multimedia and virtual reality rooms, posters, and discussion forums and workshops. A wide variety of topics were covered, from the practical implementation of a willed body donation program, virtual reality methods for skills acquisition, and computer-based alternatives in education and research to experiences of connections with animals, conscientious objection, and the legal status of alternatives and animal use in education. In addition to participating is a variety of workshops, Dr. Krebsbach gave a presentation entitled, “Veterinary Professionals Advocating for Alternatives in Veterinary Education.” This subject was prompted by the increasing interest in alternatives to the harmful and fatal use of animals in veterinary education. Through the advancement of technology, the development of skills models, and evolving partnerships with animal shelters and corporations, the practical use of alternatives in the classroom is more viable than ever before. Dr. Krebsbach’s presentation showed how veterinary professionals can play an integral role in promoting the use of alternatives in veterinary education and supporting veterinary students who are concerned about the ethical use of animals in their education. This support can be done in a variety of ways: for example, participating in Internet discussion groups, promoting willed body donation programs to clients, getting involved with ethical panel discussions, offering hands-on externships within their clinics, partaking in spay/neuter clinics, and encouraging corporate sponsorship in the purchase of alternatives. Dr. Krebsbach concluded that veterinary professionals are in the unique position to provide ethical leadership and to encourage veterinary students not to compromise their values to reach the goal of becoming a veterinarian. To view Dr. Krebsbach's presentation, click here. (NOTE: The presentation is in PowerPoint format.) If you are interested in learning more about The 2nd InterNICHE Conference, go to http://www.interniche.org/conf2005.html on the Internet. |
