JRC launches survey on alternatives to animal testing

The JRC launches a survey today as part of a major study aimed at providing an overview of education and training opportunities which are relevant to Replacing, Reducing or Refining the use of animals for scientific purposes – known as the '3Rs'.

The survey is primarily aimed at course providers, but is open to anyone who wants to contribute information on 3Rs education and training resources.

This can include courses, modules, teaching materials, workshops, lectures, guidance, and other resources - at high school, university and professional levels.

As well as gathering practical details of courses on offer, the survey also aims to capture:

• Whether the 3Rs are covered implicitly or explicitly in each course;
• The nature of the course or module, such as topics covered and methodology taught;
• Links to legislation or 3Rs legislative frameworks;
• Details on learning outcomes, qualifications and accreditation;
• The course format and target audience.

Combined with targeted research, the survey outcomes will provide a comprehensive overview of what courses and resources on the theory and application of 3Rs are available.

The findings will be published in 2019 and will help to identify opportunities to strengthen provision of 3Rs education and training through targeted initiatives and investment.

The survey will be available until the end of June 2018. More information on the education and training resources project is available here. Alternatively, you can contact us if you have a specific query.

Background

In 2016 the JRC carried out a study to build an inventory of 3Rs knowledge sources and to identify how 3Rs knowledge is shared.

Findings demonstrated that although much 3Rs knowledge exists, its sharing can be improved especially between different fields of expertise through better coordination, communication and outreach, and by more emphasis on targeted education and training initiatives.

This, together with the current study and survey establishes the follow-up to Action 1 of the Commission's Communication in response to the European Citizens' Initiative "Stop Vivisection".

Related Content

European Reference Laboratory for Alternatives to Animal Testing (EURL ECVAM)