Would you risk handling a snake or risk failing your course? That was the dilemma faced by Veterinary students at a tertiary institution recently. Their lecturer, in an unconventional move, required each student to handle a live snake in order to earn marks.
The exercise was captured on video by one of the students in the class. As the clip shows, each student, clad in their medical overalls, took turns holding a ball python for a few minutes. Some even went so far as to place the snake on their necks, hoping to impress their instructor and earn higher marks compared to their peers.
According to reports, the lecturer was adamant that every student must handle the reptile or face the consequences of failing his course. The rationale behind this exercise remains unclear, but it undoubtedly left the students with a difficult decision to make.
It is worth noting that ball pythons are non-venomous and generally considered friendly and calm. They primarily feed on rodents and small birds and are often kept as pets. Despite this, the presence of a live snake in the classroom undoubtedly created a unique and potentially stressful learning environment for these aspiring veterinarians.
For the students who already have a fear of snakes, this exercise could have posed a significant challenge. However, for those brave enough to confront their fears and handle the snake, it may have provided an opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to learning and willingness to go above and beyond.
The debate surrounding this unusual teaching method raises questions about the ethical implications of putting students in potentially uncomfortable or risky situations in pursuit of educational goals. While the intention behind the exercise may have been to enhance hands-on experience and test the students’ abilities to handle different animals, it is essential to consider the potential impact on students’ mental and emotional well-being.
Ultimately, it begs the question: would you be willing to handle a snake in order to pass this course?
