The evaluation of pre-clinical technical achievement in fixed prosthodontics cannot be objective when using visual examination of dental preparations. This is, however, still the main method used in dental schools. The present study introduces a new method, based on a mathematical formula, to reduce the problem. The idea emerged when using the Kavo PrepAssistant system (software version 1.05). This system is a 3D-scanner with software that can quantify geometrical differences between an instructor and student dental preparation in model teeth. Therefore, a mathematical formula was created, integrating selected clinically relevant geometric characteristics of dental preparations measured by the system. In this new formula, 70% of the evaluation parameters were computer analysed, whilst 30% were visually evaluated. This new method was compared with the traditional visual evaluation system during a pre-clinical practical examination, with the participation of 25 students. Using both methods to evaluate the 25 preparations, results showed similar grading for both methods (K-S test = 0.16; P < 0.05). Although this method does not provide overall clinical evaluation of student performance these results suggest that it can be helpful accessing technical achievement. In this method, the student has the guarantee that 70% of his/her grade results from an objective computer evaluation, with the possibility to visualise the mistakes with the software. It also reduces problems related to the calibration between different examiners. The Kavo PrepAssistant is a powerful tool in pre-clinical teaching, but has some drawbacks. It has to be developed towards the actual needs of pre-clinical departments, in order to achieve its full potential, as described in this study.
Challenged by assessing pupils in maths? Subject expert Sarah-Anne Fernandes provides advice on the best ways to test and record pupils' progress.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.
customersupport@researchsolutions.com
10624 S. Eastern Ave., Ste. A-614
Henderson, NV 89052, USA
Copyright © 2024 scite LLC. All rights reserved.
Made with 💙 for researchers
Part of the Research Solutions Family.