Use of animals in Swiss high schools
Animalfree Research conducted a survey among biology teachers at high schools and cantonal schools in Switzerland to determine the prevalence of animal dissection in biology classes, and the extent to which animal-free methods are already being used.
Controversial practice
The debate around the use of animals in education has been a contentious issue, sparking ethical, environmental, and psychological worries. So far, this dialogue has primarily focused on university-level education. Nevertheless, animals are not only used in human or veterinary medicine training at universities but also as part of general biology learning in high schools, a tradition that can be traced back to the early 1900s. Some argue that animal dissection is an essential part of a comprehensive biology curriculum, providing students with hands-on experience. However, it is an outdated and cruel practice that should be replaced with more humane teaching alternatives. Previous studies have shown that videos, computer simulations, models, and other alternative methods can provide students with the same educational experience as animal dissection.
Study among teachers at Swiss high schools
Animalfree Research conducted a study to evaluate, for the first time, the experiences and attitudes of Swiss high school teachers toward the use of animal dissection and animal-free alternatives. It aimed to determine the extent to which animals or animal parts are used in biology classes in Swiss high schools, whether teachers are accepting and utilizing animal-free alternatives, and the attitudes of teachers towards dissection and humane teaching methods. It was done in hopes of gaining a better understanding of the obstacles and possibilities of transitioning to a more humane biology education. Factors such as a teacher’s own education, prior experience with animal-free teaching methods, and school guidelines can all play a role in a teacher’s decision on whether to use animal dissection or alternative methods.
The survey was launched in 2019 as a pilot project and continued in an updated form in 2021. In total, 76 teachers participated in the survey. Our results revealed that teachers hold strong opinions about the benefits and appropriateness of dissection in biology education. 97% of the respondents still use animals or animal parts in their teaching practice. Through the survey, we identified several obstacles and opportunities for a wider uptake of animal-free alternatives in high schools. Specifically, it is important to increase awareness about the available animal-free methods and their efficacy. The information obtained through this survey is crucial for designing measures to support a wider uptake of humane teaching methods in secondary education and will constitute the basis for future educational activities of Animalfree Research.
Alternative teaching methods
Alternative teaching methods have been proven to achieve the same or better learning effect than the use of animals. Teachers who would like to use humane methods in their lessons can find an online database at InterNICHE and some examples here:
Photos and videos
Photos and videos that feature pre-recorded dissections can offer a close-up and narrated view of the procedures. The dissections include a variety of animals, ranging from common options like frogs and rats to more uncommon choices like earthworms.
Examples:
Three-dimensional anatomy models
These models are highly precise replicas of animals and are crafted from either plastic or clay. Three-dimensional models are available in life-size or enlarged forms and offer accurate depictions of various creatures, including frogs, rats, and pigs. The models› removable internal organs and body parts are simple to manipulate and can be used repeatedly to ensure a thorough understanding of the subject.
Examples:
Computer programs and virtual dissection
Virtual dissection involves an interactive computer simulation that replicates the internal anatomy of animals. Unlike static pictures, movies, or animations, these simulations enable users to interact with the model. Some of these computer programs show a traditional approach to anatomy, while others provide a detailed look at specific physiological concepts like muscle and nerve functionality.
Examples:
Publications
Zemanova M. A. (2022): Attitudes toward animal dissection and animal-free alternatives among high school biology teachers in Switzerland. Frontiers in Education 7: 892713.
Report: Zemanova M. A. and Frey S. (2022): A survey of biology teachers in Switzerland about their experiences and views on animal dissection and animal-free alternatives in education.
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