An approach to teaching client communication skills combining virtual communications and slowed down learning scenarios was piloted at the University of Guelph, within the Bachelor of Bioresource Management Equine Program, as part of the Equine Health Management course.  Divided into small groups, teams created a private Facebook group for a fictional equine business, with students as the management team.  The instructor and teaching assistant were added as “clients”.   

Throughout the semester, “clients” posted concerns or issues, and students were required to respond in a tactful, respectful manner, using science based responses. .  E.g., a “client” posted about an unacceptable situation, an increased incidence of colic at the stable.    The “client” responded multiple times throughout a 72 hours period of time.  Depending on the responses, the “client” would escalate or de-escalate communications.  

Although they were not veterinary students, concepts, challenges, and opportunities are applicable to veterinary students/teams wishing to improve virtual client communications. The model allowed time to research and think of responses in small groups in a “slowed down,” simulation, before attempting real client interactions.  The model appears helpful in exploring methods for overcoming anti-science mindsets and lack of non-verbal cues in online communications.