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Altan H, Gönder HY, Demirel E, Altan A, Tunçdemir AR, Zahra D, Al Maweri SA, Ali K. Readiness for clinical practice: Self-perceived confidence of final year dental students in Turkey - A multi-institutional study. MEDEDPUBLISH 2024; 14:9. [PMID: 39118866 PMCID: PMC11306955 DOI: 10.12688/mep.20115.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The primary aim of undergraduate dental education is to prepare dental students for independent dental practice and to enable them to provide safe and effective dental care. This study aimed to investigate the self-perceived preparedness of senior dental undergraduate students in Turkey. Methods Purposive sampling was used to recruit final-year dental students from 10 dental institutions offering undergraduate dental programs in Turkey. Student preparedness was assessed using a previously validated dental preparedness assessment scale based on 50 items encompassing core clinical skills, cognitive attributes, and behavioral skills. The research instrument was then translated into Turkish. The R statistical environment for Windows was used for the data analysis. Results Responses were provided by 272 students (156 women and 116 men; 57% and 43%, respectively) across 10 different universities. The mean score of the participants was 75.68 with slightly higher scores for men compared to women (77.35 vs. 74.46 respectively). However, independent t-tests showed that the scores did not differ significantly between women and men. Conclusions This study evaluated the self-perceived preparedness for dental practice of final-year students from 10 universities in Turkey. Although the results showed several areas of weakness, the scores of self-perceived preparedness of Turkish students were comparable to those reported in Europe and Asia. These findings can be used to inform future curriculum development to support students in consolidating their learning in perceived areas of weakness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Halenur Altan
- Pediatric Dentistry Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Necmettin Erbakan University, Meram, Konya, Turkey
| | - Hakan Yasin Gönder
- Restorative Dentistry Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Necmettin Erbakan University, Meram, Konya, Turkey
| | - Elif Demirel
- Pediatric Dentistry Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Necmettin Erbakan University, Meram, Konya, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Altan
- Maxillofacial Surgery Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Necmettin Erbakan University, Meram, Konya, Turkey
| | - Ali Rıza Tunçdemir
- Prosthdontics Department, Faculty of Dentistry, Necmettin Erbakan University, Meram, Konya, Turkey
| | - Daniel Zahra
- School of Psychology, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, England, PL4 8AA, UK
| | | | - Kamran Ali
- College of Dental Medicine, Qatar University, Doha, Doha, 2713, Qatar
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Shafique A, Ur Rehman A, Ibnerasa S, Glanville R, Ali K. Case-based learning in undergraduate orthodontic education: A cross sectional study. MEDEDPUBLISH 2024; 14:29. [PMID: 39246526 PMCID: PMC11380727 DOI: 10.12688/mep.20096.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/08/2024] [Indexed: 09/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Student centric learning approaches have been reported to be effective in introducing higher order cognitive skills required by the health professionals. However, learners' perceptions must be constructively aligned with new learning interventions to achieve a positive impact on their learning. The aim of this study was to explore the learning experiences of undergraduate dental students with case-based learning in orthodontics. Methods A case-based learning model was introduced on orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning for final year students on a Bachelor of Dentistry programme toward the end of their academic year. A survey was conducted to explore the perceptions and experiences of the participants. The research instrument was based on a previously validated questionnaire and included information on demographics and consisted of 12 items aimed at evaluating the benefits and challenges of cased based learning. Results All 67 students in the final-year cohort participated in study, yielding a response rate of 100 percent. Participants across the board perceived CBL to be an effective strategy to learn the subject content and helpful in improving the students' skills in orthodontic diagnosis, treatment planning and team-working. CBL did not pose any significant challenges or barriers to student learning. Conclusion Participants reported high acceptance of CBL in orthodontic teaching and learning and a positive impact on their educational experiences. CBL was perceived to be an appropriate strategy to enhance the diagnostic, treatment planning and team-working skills of dental students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asma Shafique
- Orthodontics, Lahore Medical and Dental College, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Asad Ur Rehman
- Orthodontics, Lahore Medical and Dental College, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Shazia Ibnerasa
- Orthodontics, Lahore Medical and Dental College, Lahore, Pakistan
| | | | - Kamran Ali
- QU Health College of Dental Medicine, Qatar University, Doha, Doha, Qatar
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Alsoghier A, Ali K. Self-perceived preparedness of new dental graduates from a Middle Eastern university. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF DENTAL EDUCATION : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR DENTAL EDUCATION IN EUROPE 2024; 28:559-566. [PMID: 38098132 DOI: 10.1111/eje.12981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Preparedness for independent clinical practice is a core goal of undergraduate dental education. The aim of this study was to evaluate the self-reported preparedness for the dental practice among new dental graduates from a University in the Middle East. METHODS Following ethics approval, a purposive sampling techniques were used to invite newly qualified dental graduates at a Middle Eastern University. A validated research instrument, namely the Dental Undergraduate Preparedness Assessment Scale (DU-PAS), was used to evaluate the self-perceived preparedness of the participants. Data collection was undertaken online using Google Forms and data were analysed to compute the descriptive statistics, reliability and demographic differences among the participants. RESULTS A total of 82 participants provided their response yielding a response rate of 68%. The participants included 49 males and 33 females. The overall reliability of DU-PAS was excellent. (α = 0.93). The participants included less than 40% of participants were able independently to prescribe medications, assess orthodontics needs and perform endodontic treatment on multirooted teeth. In addition, more than 65% indicated low confidence in evaluating new dental materials and products, interpreting new research findings and behavioural management of children. CONCLUSION The present findings identified strengths and weaknesses of new dental graduates from a Middle Eastern university. The participants were confident in basic clinical skills but lower confidence was reported for complex dental procedures. The findings highlight the learning needs of new dental graduates and can serve to inform the undergraduate curriculum to enhance the preparedness of future cohorts of dental graduates.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kamran Ali
- College of Dental Medicine QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
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Javed MQ, Abulhamael AM, Ahmad Z, Muhammad M, Faridi MA, Khan KI, Habib SR, Ali K. Self-reported preparedness of final year undergraduate dental students and interns in Saudi Arabia: a multi-institutional study. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2024; 24:282. [PMID: 38481299 PMCID: PMC10938702 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-024-05246-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Contemporary undergraduate dental education aims to equip the dental students with clinical competence, empathy, and professionalism to enable them to deliver safe and effective dental care to the communities. The purpose of this study was to assess the self-reported preparedness of final year dental students and interns at three Saudi dental institutions, using the pre-validated Dental Undergraduates Preparedness Assessment Scale (DU-PAS). METHODS A cross-sectional study design was employed to assess the self-reported preparedness of the participants using the DU-PAS. Following ethics approval, a probability sampling technique was used to recruit undergraduate dental students and interns from three dental institutions in Saudi Arabia. The data was collected online on Google Forms and all participants provided their consent to participate in the study prior to providing their responses to DU-PAS. RESULTS Responses were received from 397 participants including 171 males and 226 females yielding a response rate of 60.3%. The total mean score of the participants was 81.85 ± 13.11. Although higher scores were reported in males, the interaction between gender and DU-PAS scores were not significant. Interaction between DU-PAS scores and stage of education showed significant effect of the stage of education with interns reporting higher overall scores. The participants reported that they were able to perform most clinical procedures independently. However, low confidence was reported in performing multi-rooted endodontics, fabrication of removable dentures and orthodontic assessment. The participants also expressed their confidence in a wide range of behavioural attributes related to communication, teamworking and professionalism. However, lack of experience was noted in referral for oral cancer, interpreting research, and evaluation of new dental products using an evidence-based approach. CONCLUSION The study provides useful insights into the self-reported preparedness of undergraduate dental students and interns in three dental institutions. While the overall preparedness of the participants was comparable to their international peers, the findings underscore the need for further enhancements to the teaching and training of undergraduate students particularly in multirooted endodontics, removable prosthodontics and orthodontics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Qasim Javed
- Department of Conservative Dental Sciences, College of Dentistry, Qassim University, 51452, Buraidah, Qassim, PO Box 1162, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Ayman Moaz Abulhamael
- Department of Endodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, King Abdulaziz University, 21589, Jeddah, P.O. Box 80209, Saudi Arabia
| | - Zaina Ahmad
- Department of Operative Dentistry, Islamic International Dental College and Hospital, Riphah International University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Muhammad
- Department of Operative Dentistry, Islamic International Dental College and Hospital, Riphah International University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Ali Faridi
- Restorative Dental Sciences Department, College of Dentistry, Imam Abdulrahman bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kiran Imtiaz Khan
- Department of Operative Dentistry, Frontier Medical and Dental College, Abbottabad, KPK, Pakistan
| | - Syed Rashid Habib
- Department of Prosthetic Dental Sciences, College of Dentistry, King Saud University, King Abdullah Road, 11545, Riyadh, P. O. Box 60169, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kamran Ali
- College of Dental Medicine, Qatar University, 2713, Doha, Qatar.
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Friedlander LT, Wallace W, Broadbent JM, Hanlin SM, Lyons KM, Cannon RD, Cooper PR. Preparedness and competency of New Zealand graduates for general dental practice - perceptions from the workforce. Aust Dent J 2024; 69:29-39. [PMID: 37740647 DOI: 10.1111/adj.12981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dental graduates need to demonstrate clinical competency. This mixed-methods study explored the perceptions of clinicians who employ or work with new graduates from the University of Otago, New Zealand, and identified themes reflecting graduates' preparedness for independent practice. METHODS An online survey using a semantic differential scale and open-ended questions collected opinions and experiences from the workforce. Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS software, and qualitative data were analysed thematically. RESULTS A representative sample of the workforce was obtained with a response rate of 35% (N = 83). Most clinicians engage new graduates to support the profession and/or rural communities. They perceived that graduates were well prepared in most areas, could translate theory to clinical practice and demonstrate professionalism. Graduates were reportedly stronger in basic dentistry, communication, ethics, and record keeping however were less strong in complex treatment planning, molar endodontics, fixed prosthodontics and exodontia. Clinical exposure during dental training was perceived as more limited, and mentoring and guidance in the transition to practice were deemed to be important. CONCLUSIONS New Zealand dental graduates appear prepared for independent practice; however, maximising clinical opportunities during training, mentoring and early professional development in advanced areas of practice is essential to enhance competency and confidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- L T Friedlander
- Faculty of Dentistry, Sir John Walsh Research Institute, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Wda Wallace
- Faculty of Dentistry, Sir John Walsh Research Institute, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - J M Broadbent
- Faculty of Dentistry, Sir John Walsh Research Institute, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - S M Hanlin
- Faculty of Dentistry, Sir John Walsh Research Institute, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - K M Lyons
- Faculty of Dentistry, Sir John Walsh Research Institute, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - R D Cannon
- Faculty of Dentistry, Sir John Walsh Research Institute, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - P R Cooper
- Faculty of Dentistry, Sir John Walsh Research Institute, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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Gaballah K, Ali K, Zahra D, Abou Neel E, Ibrahim E. Perceived confidence of dental students and new graduates in performing tooth extractions-An exploratory study. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF DENTAL EDUCATION : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR DENTAL EDUCATION IN EUROPE 2024; 28:191-205. [PMID: 37698270 DOI: 10.1111/eje.12936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The ability to perform uncomplicated tooth extractions is a core clinical skill in undergraduate dental education. The aim of this study was to evaluate pre-extraction assessment skills of dental students and interns and explore their self-perceived confidence in performing these tooth extractions. MATERIALS AND METHODS A cross-sectional survey investigated the self-perceived confidence to perform the extraction for a set of eight expert-rated cases. The participants were dental students at three different stages, that is, in Years 4 and 5 of the Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) programme and interns. The participants were asked to rate the difficulty level of each of the eight tooth extraction cases. The self-perceived confidence of the participants to perform extraction of each was also explored. Finally, the participants were asked to identify the main reason for the perceived lack of confidence. RESULTS A total of 199 responded to the survey, yielding a response rate of 94.7%. The effect of grade of extraction (the expert rating of cases) and stage of education on difficulty ratings was assessed using a mixed three stage of education × 4-grade ANOVA, with response (Difficult = 1, Easy = 0) as the dependent variable. The results showed that there was a correlation between the stage of education and grade of extraction and affected the self-perceived confidence of the participants. Gender showed a significant impact with females categorizing significantly more cases as difficult. A three-way contingency table (counts of each confidence-level response by stage of education by expert rating of cases) suggests a statistically significant association between the three factors. Most participants identified limited clinical exposure as the main reason for their perceived lack of confidence. CONCLUSION The findings of this study show that a majority of the participants were able to recognize tooth extraction cases which were beyond the scope of their training stage with females reporting a lower confidence. Increased clinical exposure to a wider range of tooth extraction cases with varying levels of difficulty may contribute to improving the self-confidence of undergraduate dental students and interns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamis Gaballah
- Department of Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, College of Dental Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Kamran Ali
- QU Health College of Dental Medicine, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Daniel Zahra
- School of Psychology, Plymouth University, Plymouth, UK
| | - Ensanya Abou Neel
- Department of Preventive and Restorative Dentistry, College of Dental Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Eteman Ibrahim
- Quality Assurance Officer, University Dental Hospital Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
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Almahdi H, Alnaeem TA, Alshawaf HT, Alsubaya AJ, Bu Hulayqah AA, Al khars MY. Self-Perceived Preparedness of KFU Dental Graduates to Practice Dentistry: A Cross-Sectional Study. ADVANCES IN MEDICAL EDUCATION AND PRACTICE 2023; 14:595-601. [PMID: 37333622 PMCID: PMC10274844 DOI: 10.2147/amep.s409296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Assessing graduates' performance is essential to identify the strengths and weaknesses in dental education. This study examined the self-perceived preparedness of dental graduates at King Faisal University (KFU), Saudi Arabia, using the Dental Undergraduates Preparedness Assessment Scale (DU-PAS). Materials and Methods Using a cross-sectional design, this study assesses dental graduates' preparedness. This assessment measures various skills and attributes expected of dental graduates based on the DU-PAS. From January to April 2021, an electronic form was distributed to 102 eligible dental graduates of KFU. The response rate was 92.15%. The total preparedness score ranged from 0 to 100. The questionnaire consisted of two parts, the first investigating preparedness in clinical procedures (24 items) and the second investigating preparedness regarding cognition, communication, and professionalism skills (26 items). Data are analyzed using SPSS Descriptive analysis using frequencies and percentages. Results The study included 94 participants, all of them male, with a response rate of 92.4%, who graduated from the College of Dentistry KFU in Saudi Arabia. The participants' median age was 25. The mean DU-PAS score for the participants was 79.08 (SD ±12.15; range, 47.84-100). The mean score for Part A of the scale, which comprises the clinical skills, was 84.55 (SD ±13.56; range, 43.75-100). It revealed that participants felt they had no experience with the four procedures. The mean score for Part B of the scale comprising cognitive and behavioural attributes was 73.60 (SD ±16.29; range, 36.54-100). More than one-third of the participants reported limited experience in attributes related to items B30 (suspected oral cancer, 36.2%), and B33 (evaluating new dental materials, 22.3%). Conclusion In this study, dental graduates of KFU reported a high level of self-perceived confidence in their skills. Consequently, they will be able to integrate seamlessly into general dental practice. However, the participants' feedback reflects certain deficiencies in practising specific clinical procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hatim Almahdi
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Dentistry, King Faisal University, AlAhsaa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tariq Abdullatif Alnaeem
- King Faisal University Dental Complex, College of Dentistry, King Faisal University, AlAhsaa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hussien Tawfiq Alshawaf
- King Faisal University Dental Complex, College of Dentistry, King Faisal University, AlAhsaa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Jassim Alsubaya
- King Faisal University Dental Complex, College of Dentistry, King Faisal University, AlAhsaa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah Amin Bu Hulayqah
- King Faisal University Dental Complex, College of Dentistry, King Faisal University, AlAhsaa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Yaseer Al khars
- King Faisal University Dental Complex, College of Dentistry, King Faisal University, AlAhsaa, Saudi Arabia
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Raghavan S, Abu Alhaija E, Ali K. Orthodontic Curricula in Undergraduate Dental Education-A Scoping Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:4914. [PMID: 36981820 PMCID: PMC10049316 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20064914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate commonalities and variations in the learning outcomes, curriculum content, assessment methods, and competencies in undergraduate orthodontic curricula globally. METHODS This scoping review followed the updated methodological guidance proposed by the Joanna Briggs Institute and reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). A search on electronic databases PubMed, Scopus, and Embase was conducted for the last 25 years. Google Scholar was used to identify eligible unpublished and grey literature. RESULTS The total number of reports identified was 231. After removal of 62 duplicates, 169 reports were included in the title and abstract screening. Finally, 17 studies were included in the review, which included 13 cross-sectional surveys, three expert panel proceedings, and one discussion paper. Marked variations were reported in undergraduate orthodontic curricula and competency assessments at the level of individual countries, regionally as well as globally. The challenges of imparting competency in orthodontic treatment during undergraduate dental education are also acknowledged. CONCLUSION Lack of consistency in undergraduate orthodontic education was evidenced by several Delphi studies aiming to develop a consensus on orthodontic teaching in undergraduate programs. A common message emanating from the available studies on undergraduate orthodontic education seems to emphasize a focus on assessment and diagnosis of the orthodontic treatment needs of patients and a basic understanding of contemporary treatment options to facilitate patient referral.
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Pandarathodiyil AK, Mani SA, Ghani WMN, Ramanathan A, Talib R, Zamzuri AT. Preparedness of recent dental graduates and final-year undergraduate dental students for practice amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF DENTAL EDUCATION : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR DENTAL EDUCATION IN EUROPE 2023; 27:78-86. [PMID: 35100466 DOI: 10.1111/eje.12779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2021] [Revised: 12/04/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Dental education involves performing clinical procedures on patients under expert supervision. The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted routine face-to-face teaching-learning-assessment dynamics world over. This study assessed the self-perceived preparedness of dental undergraduate students for practice, whose clinical training was interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic from dental schools across Malaysia. MATERIALS AND METHODS This cross-sectional web-based questionnaire survey was done among new dental graduates of the academic year 2019-2020 and the final year undergraduate students (academic year 2020-2021) from dental schools in Malaysia, using the Dental Undergraduates Preparedness Assessment Scale (DU-PAS), from 6th to 26th April 2021. The questionnaire addressed clinical skill competence, and cognitive and behavioral attributes. The number of respondents needed to achieve a confidence level of 95% with margin of error of 5% was 306. RESULTS A total of 453 (243 final year students and 210 new graduates) responded from dental schools nationwide, with a response rate of 30.6%. The overall mean score for preparedness for dental practice was 76.3±14.7, for clinical skills 39.7±7.3, and behavioral and cognitive attributes 36.5±9.1. New graduates had significantly higher mean preparedness score (78.6±14.4) as compared to students in their final year (74.2±14.7). Performing endodontic treatment on multi-rooted teeth had the lowest perceived competency (29.8%), followed by assessing treatment needs of patients requiring orthodontics (37.1%), prescribing drugs (46.6%) and providing crowns using principles of tooth preservation (48.1%). CONCLUSIONS Satisfactory scores were obtained for most attributes. The final-year cohort was significantly less prepared for dental practice compared to the newly graduated cohort.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shani Ann Mani
- Department of Paediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Wan Maria Nabillah Ghani
- Oral Cancer Research & Coordinating Centre (OCRCC), Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Anand Ramanathan
- Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Rozaidah Talib
- Faculty of Dentistry, SEGi University, Petaling Jaya, Malaysia
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Javed MQ, Nawabi S, Bhatti UA, Atique S, AlAttas MH, Abulhamael AM, Zahra D, Ali K. How Well Prepared Are Dental Students and New Graduates in Pakistan-A Cross-Sectional National Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1506. [PMID: 36674261 PMCID: PMC9859325 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20021506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The transition of an undergraduate dental student to an actual practicing dentist is a crucial phase and ensuring the preparedness of graduates for the complexity and demands of contemporary dental practice is a challenging task. This study aimed to evaluate the self-perceived preparedness of undergraduate dental students and house officers in the dental colleges of Pakistan. A cross-sectional national study was planned to collect information from dental students and new graduates in Pakistan. The pre-validated Dental Undergraduates Preparedness Assessment Scale (DU-PAS) was used. A purposive sampling technique was utilized to recruit house officers and undergraduate dental students from 27 dental schools in Pakistan. The data analysis was carried out using the R statistical environment for Windows (R Core Team, 2015). A total of 862 responses with 642 females and 219 males were analyzed in the study. Overall, the clinical skills score was 30.56 ± 9.08 and the score for soft skills was 30.54 ± 10.6. The mean age of the participants was 23.42 ± 1.28. Deficiencies were reported in various soft skills and clinical skills attributes. The results highlighted the strengths and weaknesses of dental students and new graduates in Pakistani dental institutions. The findings may be used to further develop and strengthen the teaching and training of dental students in Pakistan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Qasim Javed
- Department of Conservative Dental Sciences and Endodontics, College of Dentistry, Qassim University, Buraidah 52571, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shazia Nawabi
- Department of Medical Education, Rawal Institute of Health Sciences, Islamabad 45550, Pakistan
| | - Usman Anwer Bhatti
- Department of Operative Dentistry, College of Dentistry, Riphah International University, Islamabad 45320, Pakistan
| | - Sundus Atique
- College of Dental Medicine, Qatar University, QU Health, Doha 2713, Qatar
| | - Mustafa Hussein AlAttas
- Department of Conservative Dental Sciences and Endodontics, College of Dentistry, Qassim University, Buraidah 52571, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ayman M. Abulhamael
- Department of Endodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80209, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Daniel Zahra
- Peninsula Medical School, Faculty of Health (Medicine, Dentistry and Human Sciences), Plymouth University, Plymouth PL48AA, UK
| | - Kamran Ali
- College of Dental Medicine, Qatar University, QU Health, Doha 2713, Qatar
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Mohd Yani AA, Ahmad MS, Ngah NA, Md Sabri BA. The relationship of educational environment and preparedness to practice - perceptions of Malaysian dental graduates. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF DENTAL EDUCATION : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR DENTAL EDUCATION IN EUROPE 2022. [PMID: 35579452 DOI: 10.1111/eje.12826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Gauging dental graduates' perceptions of their university training and of how it prepares them for professional practice is useful in measuring the quality and adequacy of the curriculum to which they were exposed. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to evaluate the perceptions of dental graduates' educational environment as well as preparedness to practice, and how these two components are correlated. METHODS A self-administered, validated questionnaire, developed from previous studies, was distributed to dental graduates of a public Malaysian university (n = 178, response rate = 60%) via online and postal surveys. Bivariate analyses were carried out using Spearman's rank-order correlation (Spearman's Rho, significance level p < .01) to determine the correlation between (1) Global Preparedness Score and Global DREEM Score, (2) domains of DREEM Inventory and perceived preparedness, and (3) domains of perceived preparedness and DREEM Score. RESULTS The Global Preparedness Score was 191.52, with more than 90% of respondents feeling well prepared in the "General Patient Management," "Drug and Emergency Management" and "Practice Management" domains. The Global DREEM Score was 148.99/200, interpreted as "more positive than negative." The DREEM Inventory domains with the highest and lowest scores were "Students' Academic Self-Perception" (78.03%) and "Students' Social Self-Perception" (71.86%), respectively. A moderate positive correlation was found between Global Preparedness Score and Global DREEM Score (p < .01). In addition, moderate to large positive correlations were noted between perceived preparedness and "Student Perception of Learning," "Student Perception of Atmosphere" and "Student Academic Self-Perception" (p < .01). Moderate positive correlations were also found between the DREEM Score and most domains of perceived preparedness (p < .01). CONCLUSIONS The majority of graduates were well prepared to perform in most areas of clinical practice and perceived their overall educational environment as positive. In particular, those who viewed the educational environment in a positive light were also found to possess a good level of preparedness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azri A Mohd Yani
- Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh, Malaysia
| | - Mas S Ahmad
- Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh, Malaysia
| | - Nurul A Ngah
- Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh, Malaysia
| | - Budi A Md Sabri
- Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh, Malaysia
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Meyer B, Karl M, Luft T, Koch S, Grobecker-Karl T, Steiner C. Students at Saarland University dental school-A survey on their background and curriculum perception. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF DENTAL EDUCATION : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION FOR DENTAL EDUCATION IN EUROPE 2021; 25:536-540. [PMID: 33185914 DOI: 10.1111/eje.12630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/11/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION With the aim of optimising dental education without overburdening students, new legislation restructuring the undergraduate dental curriculum in German is under way. The goal of this study was to survey the current situation of dental students at one specific university with respect to their socio-economic background, admission to dental school, curriculum perception and work-life balance. MATERIALS AND METHODS An online questionnaire was presented to all undergraduate students enrolled at Saarland University who had at least completed the first preclinical practical course in dentistry. RESULTS A response rate of 85% was reached with two-thirds of the student body being females. The profession of 40% of students' parents either was physicians or dentist. Students reported a slight reduction in time spent for leisure activities during their studies, however, with sports activities hardly being affected. With respect to a proper work-life balance, almost 50% of respondents considered their clinical workload as being too high. Students did not express a clear opinion regarding curriculum structure, whilst the content mostly satisfied their expectations (59%). The majority (71%) of students considered their preclinical training as being demanding whilst less than 3% fully agreed that preclinical training provided an optimal background for patient treatment. The learning modules in the first clinical semester were considered as being adequate by 56% of students. Examinations during courses were seen as properly reflecting the students' knowledge by 79% of students. DISCUSSION The status quo of German dental students is characterised by a high workload affecting the students' work-life balance and by a transition between preclinical and clinical education which only about half the student body perceives as being adequate. Patient-based examinations obviously are not considered as being problematic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birgit Meyer
- Department of Prosthodontics, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Matthias Karl
- Department of Prosthodontics, Saarland University, Homburg, Germany
| | - Torsten Luft
- Quality Office at Saarland University/Department of Teaching and Learning, Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Simon Koch
- Quality Office at Saarland University/Department of Teaching and Learning, Saarland University, Saarbrücken, Germany
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Hattar S, AlHadidi A, Sawair FA, Alraheam IA, El-Ma'aita A, Wahab FK. Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on dental education: online experience and practice expectations among dental students at the University of Jordan. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2021; 21:151. [PMID: 33685451 PMCID: PMC7938292 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-021-02584-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The quarantine associated with the COVID-19 pandemic forced dental schools to suspend their clinical training and to shift to distant learning methods. The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of quarantine on the self-perceived preparedness of dental graduates and to explore the efficacy of online education from students' perspectives. METHODS The questionnaire distributed to dental students comprised of two main sections. The first part covered the online education experience, and the second part measured the level of self-perceived preparedness for a range of cognitive, communication and professional skills. RESULTS The survey yielded a response rate of 72%. The majority of students (77%) agreed that they missed educational experiences as a result of the lockdown. More than half of them felt less motivated to follow-up with distant e-learning and believed that online assessment is not a good method for evaluation. A high percentage of the students (66%) thought that online group discussions had a positive value while 67% preferred online lectures compared to theatre lectures. Majority of students particularly 5th year (78.7%) (p < 0.001) stated that the quarantine increased their collaboration with their colleagues. According to 87% of students, the experience most negatively affected was their clinical training. In general, students showed satisfactory self-perceived preparedness related to a range of attributes and professional skills. CONCLUSIONS The data showed that students partially appreciated the online system, whereas they did not consider it a substitute for face to face clinical practice. The overall self-perceived preparedness level was promising; however students had reservations regarding independent practice following graduation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Hattar
- Department of Conservative Dentistry, School of Dentistry, The University of Jordan, Amman, 11942, Jordan.
| | - Abeer AlHadidi
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial Surgery, Oral Medicine and Periodontology, School of Dentistry, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Faleh A Sawair
- Department of Oral Maxillofacial Surgery, Oral Medicine and Periodontology, School of Dentistry, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Islam Abd Alraheam
- Department of Conservative Dentistry, School of Dentistry, The University of Jordan, Amman, 11942, Jordan
| | - Ahmad El-Ma'aita
- Department of Conservative Dentistry, School of Dentistry, The University of Jordan, Amman, 11942, Jordan
| | - Fouad Kadim Wahab
- Department of Conservative Dentistry, School of Dentistry, The University of Jordan, Amman, 11942, Jordan
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Information Retrieval and Awareness about Evidence-Based Dentistry among Dental Undergraduate Students-A Comparative Study between Students from Malaysia and Finland. Dent J (Basel) 2020; 8:dj8030103. [PMID: 32899205 PMCID: PMC7558687 DOI: 10.3390/dj8030103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: A fundamental skill in education includes the ability to search for, evaluate, and synthesize information, and this cannot be underestimated in dental education. The aim of this study was to assess how dental students from Malaysia and Finland acquire scientific information and to compare their information retrieval skills. Methods: Fourth and fifth-year dental students from Malaysia and Finland were invited to participate. A self-administered structured questionnaire including items about the use of information sources, subjective assessment of literature retrieval skills and knowledge was used. Results: A total of 226 dental students participated in the survey: 131 from Malaysia and 95 from Finland. In both countries, the highest interest for data retrieval among students was found in the oral surgery specialty. The three most used sources of information among Malaysian students were personal lecture notes, dental textbooks, and colleagues; while Finnish students used colleagues, lecture notes, and current clinical guidelines. Students’ knowledge of evidence-based practice was inadequate in both student groups. Though the majority of participants reported that they had good or passable skills in literature retrieval, more students from Finland judged themselves to have at least good skills compared to those from Malaysia. Conclusion: Dental education in both countries includes information retrieval studies and mandatory research projects. However, students did not often use those sources that are considered essential in evidence-based dentistry. Universities should further develop educational and training interventions that guide students to use knowledge resources more effectively for critically appraising scientific evidence.
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