Repetition is key when it comes to skill development. But in some classrooms, that means a mess – especially when your students are learning how to deliver calves. What if you could simulate a cow giving birth safely and consistently, without leaving your classroom – and without any clean-up? You can with Realityworks’ new Bovine Birthing and Ultrasound Simulator:
As Realityworks Education Programs Manager Jamey McIntosh demonstrates in this video, there are several key features that ensure this tabletop tool delivers realistic skill development opportunities.
A Pliable Calf That’s Difficult to Lift
The neoprene birthing calf that accompanies this training tool weighs about 30 pounds. Students can pull and bend it as they work to deliver it from the simulator’s hind quarters. They can feel for lifelike features such as the mouth, ears, shoulders and hooves. Use it to simulate over a dozen calving positions, such as posterior presentation, transverse presentation and head back position.
Sturdy Parts That Support The Use Of Straps
As anyone who’s ever birthed a calf knows, additional assistance is sometimes needed. Our engineers considered that fact when they created the simulator’s sturdy frame. Students can connect straps to the calf simulator’s hooves and practice birthing a calf with assistance from commonly used tools.
An Ultrasound Simulator That Offers 3 Different Modes
In addition to experiencing the basics of birthing a calf, students can use this simulator to understand what’s going on inside the animal before and during pregnancy. In fact, the Ultrasound Simulator uses sensing technology to simulate over 14 ultrasound situations.
In practice mode, students can get a feel for pregnancy diagnostics and issues. They can see what pregnancy looks like at various stages and practice diagnosing common issues. In this mode, students are even provided with “patient backgrounds,” such as whether the animal has ever been bred before. This gives students practice considering those facts when conducting an ultrasound.
In simulation mode, students can practice probing to diagnose 14 different scenarios. Examples include bovine heat and 30, 50 and 70 days pregnant. The removeable reproductive tract can be adjusted to simulate the reproductive tract of an older versus a younger cow as well.
In test mode, students are challenged to answer specific questions about what they see on the simulator. For instance, if the situation is for a healthy bovine coming into heat, students might be asked what they can see with the fetus. If the situation is for a bovine that is 30 days pregnant with twins, students might be asked to estimate the stage of gestation. After submitting their answers, students receive immediate feedback as to whether they are right or wrong. They can practice repeatedly and learn from their mistakes.
By engaging in safe, repeated (and mess-free) practice opportunities, your students will develop a better understanding of bovine birthing – and more importantly, gain confidence before practicing on the real thing.
Learn more
Looking for more information on our Bovine Birthing and Ultrasound Simulator? Consider these resources:
- Watch Jamey’s recent bovine training tool product demonstration on demand anytime to explore this simulator and others:
- Read our recent blog, “3 Realistic Scenarios You Can Create with our Bovine Birthing and Ultrasound Simulator”
- Explore the resources we offer to support animal science program implementation
