Designing Problem-Based Learning for Veterinary E-Courses: A Practical Guide

In veterinary education, Problem-Based Learning (PBL) is a proven approach for moving beyond rote memorization—helping students connect knowledge, sharpen reasoning skills, and prepare for real-world clinical practice. In PBL, learners work through realistic clinical scenarios, applying their skills to navigate uncertainty and solve problems.

When shifting PBL into e-learning design, educators face unique opportunities: maintaining authentic, hands-on engagement in a digital format; using multimedia to enhance realism; and building interactivity that guides learners without removing the challenge.

At V.E.T.S., our years of experience designing, building, and testing e-content in both animal and human medicine have taught us what works. Here, we share our top tips for creating PBL scenarios that are just as dynamic online as they are in person.

Seven Steps to Designing PBL That Works in E-Learning

1. Start with Clear Learning Objectives

Define what learners should be able to do—not just what they should know—by the end of the case. Whether focusing on clinical reasoning, teamwork, targeted knowledge, or core competencies, clear objectives keep design purposeful and outcomes-focused.

2. Make the Scenario Real

Choose situations veterinary students will encounter in practice—farm calls, shelter intakes, or emergency clinic cases. Authenticity drives engagement. Use action-oriented media—videos, images, and narration—to immerse learners in the story.

3. Build the Problem in Steps

Unfold the case gradually: start with the presenting complaint, then add lab results, imaging, and client input. This sequencing mirrors the diagnostic process and keeps curiosity high.

4. Add Rich, Useful Details

Integrate patient histories, exam findings, lab data, and client perspectives. These details make the experience feel like a genuine clinical encounter, not a static exercise.

5. Mix in Uncertainty

In practice, veterinarians often act with incomplete data. Incorporate decision points where learners must act without perfect information to build adaptability and critical thinking.

6. Use Technology for Interactivity

In an e-learning environment, branching scenarios, embedded decision points, and dynamic feedback tools can replicate the role of a tutor—guiding learners based on their choices. Research shows that well-designed, interactive PBL modules can outperform traditional, slide-based formats in boosting learning outcomes.

7. Test, Then Refine

Pilot your case with colleagues or a small learner group. Gather feedback, identify points of confusion, and adjust. Even small refinements can make a noticeable difference in engagement and clarity.

Why It Matters

Effective PBL is more than “fun group work.” It’s a structured, safe space for veterinary learners to develop clinical reasoning, decision-making, and teamwork skills before entering real practice.

When educators connect PBL scenarios to the realities of veterinary medicine—whether in radiology, cardiology, internal medicine, anesthesiology, neurology, or other specialties—students gain a bridge between theoretical learning and clinical readiness.

If you need help converting your PBL scenarios into dynamic e-content (like our PBL Packs), contact us.