Virtual foaling: A case study

Abstract

AbstractThe outbreak of COVID‐19 during the spring 2020 semester prevented the normal face‐to‐face format of the Equine Reproduction and Foaling course and laboratory due to campus closure and prevention of students returning to campus. This case study provides a unique teaching strategy utilizing a cloud‐based live feed video surveillance system for the remote observation of four mares during foaling to provide students with real time streaming video and the effective delivery of online content. Students coordinated overnight observation shifts with the GroupMe app and sent notifications to classmates of foaling events. The student feedback for the course was positive and provided an extraordinary experience of students witnessing the real time birth of a foal from home. After completing the Equine Reproduction and Foaling course, several enrolled students have indicated interest in pursuing careers as foaling attendants or in the equine reproduction industry in general due to the impact of the experiential learning delivered in this course. Utilization of a remote, cloud‐based surveillance system for live viewing from various mobile devices is an instructional strategy that may be advantageous in a variety of animal science or agriculture courses to provide effective online delivery of face‐to‐face content.