Research Methods in Equine Science…
…by Nancy / from the United States / MSc Equine Science / 3rd Year
I am eagerly preparing for my last module which will help me proceed with my research project. I am taking the free course, “Research Methods and Statistics” to help me prepare for the “real” class “Research Methods in Equine Science”. I have thoroughly enjoyed each and every subject/topic that Edinburgh has presented to me in each module. This makes it difficult to choose what area of equine research to focus on for my dissertation. I have so many ideas and questions, swirling around in my mind, that I would love to be able to investigate them all.
In reflecting on my past courses, I wouldn’t have predicted that, Equine Reproduction ended up being my favorite module. I was hesitant to take that course as my areas of interest were always geared toward equine physiology and orthopedics. I thought I wouldn’t do well in the class due to not having a huge equine breeding background. However I found the topic fascinating and ended up learning so much more than I anticipated…I hated to see the module come to an end! I’m glad I took the opportunity to investigate a topic that was somewhat out of my comfort zone.
At the other end of the spectrum… I was very interested in taking Equine Nutrition and was not disappointed in the course. All instructors were very informative and approachable, especially when help was needed setting up caloric calculations, nutrient requirement equations and equine dietary analysis. During my studies at Edinburgh I have always had good staff support. All questions have been answered promptly.
I ended up taking five modules in a row (having begun my studies in January 2015) and this resulted in me not having to take Equine Orthopedics. I was a little disappointed but was thrilled to be able to take the orthopedics class as an auditor. The research papers, books and lectures were very interesting and useful… I highly recommend taking advantage of this service Edinburgh offers for that “one” module you don’t have to fully participate in with assessments. I also highly recommend especially for “equestrians and drivers” to take the Equitation Science module. I took Equine Behavior and Welfare as a precursor to Equitation Science. The research available and the tutors were extremely enlightening. These two modules complimented one another, giving me good training strategies. A wonderful website on the topic is at http://www.equitationscience.com .
Well I better go ride some horses and of course clean some stalls! Today is the first day of Spring which for me signals that the Kentucky Derby is a little over 6 weeks away. Warmer weather and more time in the saddle is on the way! Enjoy your day!
Keep smiling,
Nancy
