Evaluating #VetFinals: Can Twitter help students prepare for final examinations?

Abstract

Twitter is increasingly used in education. In this article, Twitter was evaluated for its potential to aid veterinary students in their preparation for final examinations. “#VetFinals” revision sessions were facilitated by experts on a variety of topics. The initiative was evaluated through consideration of potential participants, session content and student experiences. In analysis of nine sessions, 52 students participated from eight veterinary schools. During a session, the facilitator tweeted 66 times on average, primarily asking a general question. Students on average tweeted 84 times, mostly in response to facilitators. They also asked novel questions and responded to fellow students. Focus groups and interviews with 11 students suggested that: sessions are useful for preparation/self-testing to succeed in exams; the facilitator and session style impact on learning; the sessions feel like personalized learning; there are elements of safety and exposure leading to some fear of tweeting; peer-learning promotes competition; a community of learners was formed; Twitter has become a part of normal professional life. Whilst not all students will take part in this type of social media use, many found it beneficial. The importance of the facilitator suggests the need for faculty development.

Disclosure statement

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of this article.

Notes on contributors

Dr Tierney Kinnison, BSc, MSc, PGCertVetED, PhD, FHEA is Research Associate at the Lifelong Independent Veterinary Education Centre, Royal Veterinary College, London, UK. Tierney’s primary interests surround professionalism, especially interprofessional working and learning. Tierney is also interested in all aspects of computer aided learning, from social media to virtual reality simulators.

Dr Martin Whiting, BSc, BVetMed, MA, DipECAWBM(AWSEL), PHD, MRCVS, FHEA is the Lecturer in Veterinary Ethics and Law at the Royal Veterinary College, London, UK. Martin’s primary research interests are on professional conduct and public interest questions involving the veterinary profession as well as veterinary education. Martin utilizes Twitter extensively for education and networking purposes.

Kirsty Magnier, is a Senior Developer in Distance Learning and Veterinary Education at LIVE Centre, Royal Veterinary College, London, UK. Kirsty is an educational researcher and is interested in exploring the role of educational technologies in helping to prepare students for the workplace.

Dr Liz Mossop, BVM&S, MMedSci (Clin Ed), PhD, MAcadMEd, MRCVS is Associate Professor of Veterinary Education, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Nottingham, UK. Liz is Sub Dean for Teaching, Learning and Assessment so leads the curriculum and assessment strategies. Her research interests are in professionalism, the hidden curriculum and general educational developments.