By Andi Anderson
Students at The Ohio State University’s College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences (CFAES) are gaining valuable hands-on experience through the Multispecies Animal Learning Complex (MALC), a modern facility designed to connect classroom learning with real-world agricultural practices.
Located at the Waterman Agricultural and Natural Resources Laboratory, the MALC allows students to work directly with livestock while studying animal sciences and related fields. The facility brings together teaching spaces, research opportunities, and multiple livestock species in one location, creating a unique learning environment for students interested in agriculture.
The complex officially opened earlier this year and is now being used for a variety of academic programs. Courses offered at the facility include animal handling, equine studies, poultry evaluation, dairy production, swine production, and small ruminant management. Students also participate in research projects and gain work experience through daily operations at the complex.
Gemma Dotts, a third-year animal sciences student, is one of many students benefiting from the facility. Her responsibilities include caring for newborn lambs and assisting with livestock management while continuing her studies.
“As an aspiring food-animal veterinarian, every visit to the MALC is an opportunity to learn skills directly applicable to my future career,” Dotts said.
“Now, as a third-year student, it has been well worth the wait,” she said.
The MALC gives students access to advanced technologies commonly used in modern livestock production. These include robotic milking systems, automated feeding equipment, and manure management technologies. Exposure to these innovations helps students understand how technology is shaping the future of agriculture and livestock farming.
According to Maurice Eastridge, professor and senior associate chair in the CFAES Department of Animal Sciences, working directly with animals increases student engagement and participation. He observed students becoming more involved and confident when learning in practical settings.
“Their eyes sparkled, and their interest became evident,” Eastridge said.
Students also gain knowledge in animal production, livestock management, biosecurity, animal health, and data analysis. These experiences help them develop critical thinking skills and prepare for careers in veterinary medicine, animal nutrition, food processing, agricultural technology, and regulatory agencies.
Blythe Bolender, biosecurity and swine operations manager at the MALC, believes practical learning helps students better understand the responsibilities involved in maintaining animal health and welfare.
“Watching students transition from traditional classrooms to the active environment of the MALC reveals a profound shift from passive hesitation to focused, hands-on ownership,” Bolender said.
Beyond serving university students, the facility supports partnerships with Columbus State Community College, The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, industry groups, and community organizations. It also provides educational opportunities for K-12 students and visitors interested in learning about animal agriculture and food production.
By combining classroom instruction, livestock care, advanced technology, and industry collaboration, the MALC is helping prepare the next generation of agricultural professionals with the skills needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving industry.
Photo Credit: ohio-state-university
Categories: Ohio, Education