Exploring cross-disciplinary learning in veterinary education

Since the 1970s, medical humanities has emerged as a thriving cross-disciplinary research area. It encompasses a diverse range of subjects and approaches which aim to increase the understanding of human and animal medicine as a scientific, social and philosophical activity and to inform education and practice.
Consequently there are increasing experiences in the use of medical humanities in the undergraduate curriculum, although there are obstacles conceptually and practically due to the dominance of the biomedical sciences.

This exploratory workshop will allow participants to explore the utility of cross-disciplinary approaches in teaching. Suitable areas of the curriculum include, but are by no means restricted to, professionalism, communication skills, ethics, complex stakeholder decision-making, and personal coping/resilience.

Using a cycle of plenary and small group activities, participants will share and brainstorm ideas and apply them to different learning situations. Examples of some previously used approaches and materials will also be available for discussion. The aim is to help us identify the sorts of ideas and materials that may be of practical use in everyday teaching and learning and that will foster for students a critical, participatory and enjoyable approach to topics which are not primarily knowledge-focussed.