Computer-assisted learning in dentistry a view from the UK

Top of the pops – CD-ROM and DVDs in dental education

“…A number of UK dental schools have developed programmes for undergradu ates, covering topics such as complete dentures 12 and orthodontic assess ment, 13 and elsewhere in the world large numbers have been developed for this 14 There are approximately 33,500 registered dentists in the UK, 15 all of whom are legally required to under take continuing professional develop ment (CPD). It is perhaps unsurprising, therefore, that the use of CD-ROMs has been widespread as a means of providing CPD.…”

Information technology in dental education

“…The future of IT in dental education will be of increasing importance. 33 2 Start-up cost can be high 33 3 Users and producers of teaching materials in this form need to develop a different approach in order to use CAL effectively 4 It can take time to see efforts rewarded by appearing in the curriculum 63 …”

“…31 Various packages are available on the internet as distancelearning materials (Table 1). 32,33 The use of distance education and telecommunications to support classroom-based instruction changes the dynamic between students and teachers, and the nature and location of the classroom. The use of these technologies is simple, once the basic skills have been learned.…”

“…An example of the successful implementation of IT in patient administration is the DELPHI (Dental Education Logistics and Patient Health Information) system adopted by the Prince Philip Dental Hospital, of the University of Hong Kong. IT Table 1 Various learning packages and useful websites in dentistry 32,33 Website address Descriptions EDUCATION information technology by sharing ideas and programmes between interest groups at institutional, national and international levels.…”

Evaluating web-based learning modules during an MSc programme in dental public health: a case study

“…However, although they have been seen as a cheap option, a number of hidden costs (such as replacing hardware, overheads and the expense in staff time of preparing materials) may well make online courses considerably more expensive than anticipated. 6,7 Computer-based teaching in dentistry Computer-based learning packages have been used as a part of undergraduate teaching in dentistry but are perhaps more often seen as a resource suitable for postgraduate training. In particular, web-based packages are now being introduced for CPD purposes -an area that is growing in importance.…”