European journal of dental education : official journal of the Association for Dental Education in Europe
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The purpose of this study was to develop and implement a blended course (a combined face-to-face and online instruction) on undergraduate oral radiology and evaluate it by comparing its educational effectiveness (derived from students' performance and answers to questionnaires) to a conventional course's. Students' attitudes concerning the blended methodology were also registered. ⋯ Blended learning is effective and well evaluated by dental students and can be implemented in undergraduate curriculum for teaching oral radiology.
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To determine how prepared for dental practice graduates from the integrated problem-based learning (PBL) dental undergraduate curriculum at The University of Hong Kong (HKU) perceive themselves to be and to identify factors associated with self-perceived preparedness. ⋯ Dental graduates of HKU's integrated PBL curriculum felt well prepared for the most fundamental aspects of dental practice. However, apparent deficiencies of training in orthodontics and oral and maxillofacial surgery will need to be addressed by continuing education, postgraduate training and planning for the new 6-year undergraduate curriculum in 2012.
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Students' perceptions of the educational environment in a Greek Dental School, as measured by DREEM.
The aim of this study was to estimate the dental students' perceptions of their educational environment and to identify any differences related both to their gender and semester of studies. ⋯ Students' perceptions of the educational environment were reasonably positive, with no gender difference. However, some weaknesses were identified, particularly in the clinical years. Further research is needed to clarify appropriate interventions.
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Online discussion boards may enhance critical analysis and reflection, and promote the acquisition of knowledge. ⋯ Online discussion boards were found to be successful pedagogical tools in dental education. Further development of instructor-led discussion approach is needed to promote higher level learning and collaborative thinking.
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Comparative Study
The importance of student research projects in dental education.
In this article, our aim was to summarise students' research over 15 years at Istanbul University Faculty of Dentistry and to evaluate both the research activities from the students' perspectives and the effect of this activity on their undergraduate and postgraduate success. In 1992, dental students formed 'a Student Research Club' (SRC), which new students attend voluntarily and carry out a scientific project out with the normal curriculum every year. In total, 409 different students have presented 193 research projects at these meetings over 15 years. ⋯ However, no statistical difference was found between members of SRC and non-members. These data showed that although the students had an intensive programme in the school, they were able to carry out this voluntary activity successfully and this activity contributed to their educational process. Students also believe that participation of them to this activity effects positively on both personal development and academic success.