Knowledge and involvement on ethical principles of animal experimentation in undergraduate physiotherapy

Abstract

This article analyzes a sample of university students from the Physiotherapy Course, the indicators of ethical use of animals in research and teaching to the level of knowledge and interest of the students on the topic of animal ethics. A questionnaire was distributed to the students of the first and second semesters of Physiotherapy, which was filled out in the classroom voluntarily. Data was analyzed and a descriptive discussion took place subsequently. The questionnaire was completed by 193 students. Among the surveyed students, the majority had prior knowledge on the topic of animal ethics, but never attended classes with practical use of animals and claimed they have never thought about replacing animals by alternative methods. Students were sensitized on the number of animals used in teaching and research and demonstrated knowledge of the subject.