Using animal models for biotech and life science training has long been a part of biotech and life science training. However, ethical concerns and virtual simulations are changing the way students learn.
Have you conducted any hands-on experiments with animal models as part of your degree program? Is it essential to learning, or can simulations fill in the gap?
According to me
Simulators should do the work
We are in the world of AI
We should stop harming animals.
In pharmacy research, animals are often used in experiments. But I don’t have any hands-on experience with animal handling.
Yes, @Nandhini_23
I’ve had some hands-on experience with animal models during my studies. It helped me understand biological processes more clearly and gave me a deeper sense of responsibility in research. However, I do think that with today’s technology, virtual simulations can be a great alternative especially for teaching basic concepts. They’re more ethical and can still offer a solid learning experience though some advanced training might still need real models for now.
Yes , I have conducted many experiments with animal models. Animal models are still widely used in scientific research because they provide valuable insights into complex biological systems that cannot yet be fully replicated. However, there are emerging alternatives such as organoids, lab-on-a-chip systems, computer simulations, and advanced cell culture techniques, which are gaining acceptance. While these methods reduce the reliance on animals, they are not yet complete substitutes in all areas, especially where whole-organism interactions must be studied.
Majority of our Zoology practicals involved stimulations. We never handled any live animals (apart from the negative phototaxis experiment on cockroaches… that too was in a jar). We were given a small amount of mass of Goat’s brain to weigh its protein for a neuroscience experiment… that was the extent of it.
I think it would have become even stricter now. A decision I certainly welcome. But, also, the stims should be more accessible to the students.
Animal labs in biotech education provide hands-on experience, developing essential skills and understanding complex biological systems. While emerging alternatives like virtual labs and simulations are valuable, many argue hands-on experiments remain essential for real-world applications. A balanced approach combining both can offer comprehensive learning experiences.
Although I didn’t work with animal models for my degree, I believe simulations can be an amazing means to learn ideas while lowering ethical concerns.
during the last year project we have experiment on animals.not essential to learn now the AI software are available