Published in the Journal of Veterinary Medical Education, the study by P. McGreevy, P. Della Torre, and D. Evans presents an innovative educational tool designed to support learning in canine and feline behavior therapy. The software was developed to improve students’ ability to formulate behavioral problems, apply diagnostic methods, and identify effective treatment options through interactive, realistic scenarios.
The program places students in small-group learning environments where they are presented with a signalment, a detailed case history, and a concise description of the problem behavior as perceived by the client. Instead of passively receiving information, students actively navigate each case by selecting questions from an icon-driven question pad. The software responds with animated video segments simulating client answers, enabling students to observe and interpret behavioral information dynamically.
An essential component of the activity involves having students evaluate the significance of each question and each answer in relation to the development of the observed behavior problem. This encourages critical thinking and fosters a deeper understanding of causation, triggers, environmental influences, and behavioral mechanisms in dogs and cats.
To support knowledge consolidation, the program links to online self-assessments and curated resource materials addressing causation and treatment options. These supplemental tools guide students in refining their diagnostic reasoning and therapeutic planning abilities, ensuring they understand not just what decisions to make, but why those decisions matter in evidence-based behavior therapy.
The learning module concludes with a software-generated email submission containing the group’s recorded case history, diagnosis, and recommended treatment plan. This final step mirrors real-world clinical reporting and allows instructors to assess student understanding in a structured, consistent format.
Overall, the study highlights how interactive, case-based digital learning environments can enhance education in veterinary behavioral sciences. By integrating video-based client interactions, guided inquiry, diagnostic reasoning, and applied treatment planning, the software provides a comprehensive platform for building competency in canine and feline behavior therapy.
Source: McGreevy, P., Della Torre, P., & Evans, D. (2003). Animal behaviour learning environment: software to facilitate learning in canine and feline behavior therapy. Journal of Veterinary Medical Education.
