Building shared knowledge: an educational outreach experience between veterinary medicine and secondary education

Abstract

Anatomy is a fundamental pillar in the training of veterinarians; its teaching integrates academic instruction with university outreach to build shared knowledge and key concepts, equipping students to effectively meet the demands of society. An interdisciplinary university extension educational experience was developed, employing a descriptive, qualitative-quantitative approach, aimed at fostering the integration of knowledge regarding anatomy and reproduction among secondary school and university students. Participants included students in their final year at the General Cabrera Agrotechnical School (IPEA 291) and first-year students of the Veterinary Medicine program from the Faculty of Agronomy and Veterinary Medicine (F.A.V. U.N.R.C.), alongside faculty members, support staff (nodocentes), and scholarship holders. The experience was carried out in two stages. First, the creation of an integrative study guide and the preparation of anatomical specimens from the reproductive tracts of sheep and goats; and second, the use of these innovative educational materials in a workshop featuring both theoretical and practical activities. Data were collected through workshop event logs and surveys. The evaluation method involved grading the study guides and analysing the logs to determine the level of conceptual integration achieved by students in individual instances. Of the total surveys (n=45), 85% of students responded positively to the collaborative involvement of Veterinary Anatomy and Animal Reproduction instructors. Contributions to linking with the secondary school and building knowledge focused on improving specialized anatomical vocabulary, addressing reproductive assessment and raising awareness about sustainable production.