Abstract
Launch of LASA’s Direct Observation of Procedural/Practical Skills (DOPS) resource
Thanks to the kind donation of a considerable number of existing DOPS by three of LASA’s ETES members, LASA is pleased to be able to announce the launch of this resource, containing 250 DOPS sheets for procedural and practical skills, planned for July 2019. Visit the website http://www.lasa.co.uk/ and click on the DOPS link.
What are DOPS?
DOPS (Direct Observation of Procedural/ Practical Skills) are a well-defined mechanism to measure the competence of an individual in a procedure or practical task. The individual’s performance is assessed against predetermined criteria for the task, using a checklist-type format.
The DOPS assessment takes account of the integration of knowledge, skills and attitude that are necessary in carrying out any task. For example, the individual must understand why they are undertaking the procedure and the legal constraints that apply (knowledge); the individual must have the appropriate dexterity and skill to carry out the task (skills); and they must demonstrate working within the Culture of Care, showing appropriate respect for the animals and persons involved (attitude).
The successful individual ‘meets expectations’ in respect of the criteria that are outlined for each technique and which provide transparency of expectations and standards. DOPS can be used both in training (formatively) and as a final ‘sign off’ assessment (summatively). Feedback is an integral part of the assessment, and should be given at the end of each training session in order both to reward good performance and to encourage learning.
How to use DOPS
The DOPS are listed in a spreadsheet which can be filtered to enable users to find the DOPS they need. Filtering can be done by species, type of procedure, etc., and once found the relevant DOPS can be downloaded for use in the assessment or training of staff for the relevant procedure or practical skill. The mechanism by which this is done, and the results recorded, is subject to the processes which your Establishment has adopted. The DOPS can be saved as Word files to be adapted, on this basis, to be appropriate for local use
Improving existing DOPS and proposing new DOPS
The LASA DOPS are intended to reflect current good practice. However, they are ‘living documents’ and we are keen to hear from those in the laboratory animal science community who might have suggestions for improvements. To do so, please amend the relevant section(s) of the DOPS and email an electronic copy to DOPS@lasa.co.uk. Please use ‘Track Changes’ when proposing any modifications to the relevant DOPS document.
We are keen to expand the LASA DOPS library with new documents on additional procedures, practical skill and species. If you would like to contribute a new DOPS document, download the blank template, complete the relevant sections and email an electronic copy to DOPS@lasa.co.uk.
Amended and new DOPS will be assessed by the LASA DOPS Review Panel. If approved, new DOPS and amended DOPS will be uploaded to the website. New DOPS will carry the LASA logo, but can be jointly branded with the originator’s institution if requested.
LASA hopes that trainers and NTCOs will make full use of this resource and help it to grow. Your feedback is welcome so if you have any comments or suggestions please email DOPS@lasa.co.uk.
Cryopreservation and IVF technology meeting
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The first day will be seminar based with lectures on embryology of the mouse, metabolism of the preimplantation mouse embryo (and media) and an overview of cryobiology. The second day will form part of a technical forum, with discussion focussing on innovations and tips for cryopreservation, shipping methods, assisted reproductive technology (ART), alternative uses for cryo and ART, vitrification techniques, refinements and ethical considerations for those working in this field. There is the opportunity to register for one or both days of these workshops; for those staying for both days a social event, with opportunity to meet new people, is planned for the evening of the 22nd June.
Further details can be found on the LASA website http://www.lasa.co.uk/meetings/
For all LASA events, contact the Secretariat for registration forms info@lasa.co.uk
Animal Science and Technology 2020
Three key Science and Welfare (LASA/LAVA/IAT) organisations with over 150 years of knowledge and experience to promote education in laboratory animal science and elevate standards for laboratory animal care are joining forces to organise a Conference which will be the largest of its kind held in the UK. The Animal Science and Technology meeting 2020 (AST 2020) will run from
This joint meeting is an opportunity to celebrate what we have achieved so far, but more importantly to identify where we need to go from here, because as long as animals are used in research it is our responsibility to strive towards better animal welfare and science.
This event will offer a varied scientific programme with parallel sessions hosted by the three organisations, as well as a large trade exhibition where companies from around the globe will showcase their exciting products and services.
Further details, a copy of the provisional scientific programme and details of the confirmed Keynote speakers can be found on the AST2020 website https://www.ast2020.org/
We look forward to seeing you in Edinburgh!