The subject of this Masterclass, animal welfare, sometimes leads to heated debates in society. Just think of how we deal with animal transport, the use of laboratory animals in the pharmaceutical industry or the confinement of animals for the production of meat and derived products.
This course, created in collaboration with Associate Professor of Ethics of Human-Animal Interactions Franck Meijboom, has a threefold aim. The first aim is to make you as a (future)professional in the field of animal care and management aware of the ethical dimensions of your dealing with animal (welfare) issues. The further aims are to offer knowledge and tools that enable you to deal with ethical questions on both a theoretical and a practical level.
The module uses four didactical methods:
- Virtual lectures that aim to raise awareness and transfer knowledge.
- Self-Directed learning that includes reading texts along the lines of small assignments.
- A discussion platform that enables participants to discuss with each other.
- The aim is to improve the level of reflection and to use the input of other students in order to come to a more in-depth understanding of the course material.
- Personal assignments. These are both aimed at (a) linking the course content to the practical professional situation of the student and (b) evaluating the level of knowledge and skills of the student
In his work the link between ethical theory and moral practice plays an important role. For instance, a number of projects were initiated by or in close cooperation with the Dutch government, such as the drafting of a general ethical framework for biotechnology, the organization of a series of public debates on animal biotechnology, and a series of training in ethics for civil servants of the Ministry of Agriculture. Additionally, he performs and supervise projects with a strong interdisciplinary character.
Target audience
Vetenarians and scientists. Managers and policy officers dealing with animal welfare and social issues. For instance veterinarian working at group association or umbrella associations, industry or government (province, ministry). Professionals working in enforcement and supervision. Researchers and lecturers in green education/higher education.
Aim of the course
Specifically, after following this course you:
- Are aware of the ethical dimensions related to animal welfare and can recognise these in real-life situations.
- Are aware of the strengths and limitations of animal welfare in discussing ethical issues related to our human interactions with animals.
- Have knowledge of the theoretical background that is relevant to deal with the ethical questions of animal welfare.
- Are able to use tools and arguments to deal with real-life questions related to the ethical dimensions of animal welfare.
Study load
This online course is preparatory to an online live Masterclass that will be taught by Franck Meijboom. Make sure you have completed all four chapters of this course before you register for the Masterclass. In activity 5.2, you have the opportunity to register for the Masterclass at a date that suits you. The masterclass takes place on: Juni 15, July 14, September 14 and November 16, 2022 from 1:30 PM to 4:00 PM. You can attend the online Masterclass in the same activity, where use will be made of an online conferencing tool.
In order to be well prepared to participate in the Masterclass, Franck Meijboom will take you through the following parts of this online course:
- Chapter 1 - Introduction to applied ethics
- Chapter 2 - Why are animals morally relevant?
- Chapter 3 - Beyond animal welfare
- Chapter 4 - How to apply ethics? Tools and frameworks
Overview
- Continuous course
- Self-paced & 100% flexible
- Self-study (4 hours) with closing virtual live masterclass (2 hours) by Franck Meijboom
- Study online, anywhere and anytime
- 4 learning units
Course fee: €450
For more information click "LINK TO ORIGINAL" below.