RCVS Knowledge has updated and expanded its highly regarded EBVM Learning course to provide a free, practical grounding in applying evidence-based veterinary medicine (EBVM), available on the charity’s new e-learning platform.

The new version of EBVM Learning is the product of an international collaboration with 18 leading veterinary educators and practitioners. It offers veterinary surgeons, nurses, students and educators six hours of free CPD, which cover the five stages of EBVM and an overview of its evolution.

Users can progress through the six modules in order, to build a solid foundation in applying EBVM, or alternatively can access individual sections to deepen their knowledge in particular areas. Practical examples and quizzes are provided every step of the way, as well as the opportunity to download a certificate of completion.

The mobile-friendly course can also be used as a reference tool for specific aspects of EBVM, such as how to search the literature effectively, and there is an extensive thematic set of references for those who are keen to explore the subject further.

The updated EBVM Learning is housed on RCVS Knowledge Learn, the charity’s new e-learning platform. RCVS Knowledge Learn provides enhanced accessibility amongst other benefits, and will become the charity’s hub for free training and resources to all veterinary practitioners and students.

The new release of EBVM Learning has been well received by veterinary surgeons and nurses who helped test the course. Lauren Sweeney RVN said: “My experience of this course was excellent. I gained a large amount of knowledge and confidence, and it is fantastic to have so much information in one place.” Lucie Goodwin MRCVS agreed: “This course is excellent.”

Chris Gush, Executive Director of RCVS Knowledge, said: “This fresh iteration of our EBVM Learning course is the culmination of a huge amount of committed work from an international network of leaders in EBVM, and we are proud to launch it on our new, accessible platform RCVS Knowledge Learn. The course constitutes an important way in which the charity supports all veterinary practitioners to advance the quality of care they provide through evidence-based veterinary medicine, regardless of their role, location or background.”

Sarah Baillie, EBVM Learning academic lead and Emeritus Professor of Veterinary Education at the University of Bristol, added: “The update to EBVM Learning was based on extensive feedback gathered from students, practitioners and educators who had used the original version. It allowed us to improve the layout and ensure the content continued to be relevant to a wide range of veterinary professionals at all stages of their careers. We also expanded the team to have a greater international perspective with contributions from colleagues based in Bangladesh, Canada, Germany, Grenada, USA, Romania and South Africa.”

EBVM Learning can be accessed for free at http://learn.rcvsknowledge.org/ebvm-learning.