Dental Student Perspectives of a Comprehensive-Based Teaching Methodology: A Confidence, Effectiveness, and Challenge Report

Abstract

Background/Objectives. The holistic methodology in education has been widely appreciated and implicated in dental schools in the last decade. Our department of conservative dentistry decided to reform the educational model of teaching from a traditional requirement-based model to a hybrid model incorporating comprehensive care treatment. The aim of our study was to assess students’ confidence and perspectives regarding the benefits of a comprehensive model of teaching. Materials and Methods. A questionnaire was distributed at the end of the academic year 2018-2019 and designed to investigate students’ opinions on the benefits of the new model of teaching, as well as difficulties encountered and possible shortcomings. In addition, self-perceived confidence level was assessed for the purpose of comparing confidence during supervised tasks versus confidence during comprehensive patient care. Results. Complete responses were gathered from 127 students out of 202, giving a response rate of 63%. The majority of students believed that the comprehensive model of teaching allowed them to better address patients’ needs, gave higher satisfaction, positively influenced self-confidence, permitted greater exposure to clinical techniques, and enhanced reasoning and analytical skills. However, their confidence was still lower in comprehensive patient management when compared to supervised tasks. Conclusion. Our students showed an appreciation of the comprehensive care model. Self-learning and didactic skills were enhanced. It would, therefore, be beneficial to adapt this methodology to earlier years and other disciplines to enhance the effectiveness of education and achievement of learning outcomes.

A comprehensive approach to identify challenges for clinical reasoning development in undergraduate dental students and their potential solutions

“…This approach improves communication with patients to better address their needs, increases the exposure to clinical techniques, improving reasoning and analytical skills and foster a better educational environment. All these factors positively influence students' self‐confidence and lead to higher levels of student satisfaction with learning 30 …”

Ten‐year follow‐up of patient‐centered comprehensive care using case completion curriculum

“…Students' understanding of the comprehensive approach to patient care can vary; however, their awareness is as critical as the awareness of the faculty who measure and oversee the progression of the clinical curriculum 13–18 . The graduation survey was administered at the end of the predoctoral program in the areas of comprehensive care, patient‐centered care, faculty roles, case review seminars, and clinical education.…”

Educational Approach: Application of SWOT Analysis for Assessing Entrepreneurial Goals in Senior Dental Students

“…This process aligns with the educational aspect of dental training, where students actively engage in self-assessment and skill development [ 8 ]. Secondly, it facilitates the recognition of opportunities for growth and development within dental education, such as research projects, community outreach programs, and specialized training, all of which contribute to a holistic educational experience [ 9 ]. Thirdly, SWOT analysis helps in acknowledging threats and challenges students may face, enabling them to prepare and strategize effectively.…”

“…Furthermore, it assists in career planning and decision-making by aligning students’ strengths with suitable career paths and guiding them in addressing weaknesses through further education or mentorship. Lastly, SWOT analysis enhances personal development and improvement strategies by guiding students in designing action plans to enhance their skills and capitalize on their strengths [ 9 ].…”

“…While SWOT analysis has been employed already in various capacities within dentistry [ 7 , 8 , 9 , 10 , 11 ], its novel application for assessing dental students’ anticipation of their future professional trajectories constitutes a noteworthy contribution. This research investigates the application of SWOT analysis among senior dental students at the Department of Dentistry, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece.…”