Perception towards professionalism among Indian dental educators and residents – A descriptive study

Abstract

Background: Lack of professional integrity among dental students can greatly impact the safety of future patients. Currently, there are no established learning outcomes for dental professionalism. Aim: The aim of the study is to assess the perceptions of Indian educators (DE) and residents (DR) towards the attributes and methods to learn/teach dental professionalism. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among Indian DE and DR from April 1, 2022, to July 31, 2022. A 31-item questionnaire was developed to evaluate the demographic data, perceptions of learning/teaching methods, and attributes of professionalism. The sample size was calculated to 446 subjects. Descriptive statistics were carried out. Results: Of the 428 participants, 287 were DE and 141 were DR. Most participants are aware of the attributes and have a positive attitude toward professionalism. Role modeling and mentoring were the most effective ways to learn professionalism. About 97.9% of DE and 97.9% of DR felt it was important to teach dental students about professionalism. About 85.7% of DE and 73% of DR felt the need for an additional program in the current BDS curriculum. Most participants selected contact with role model teachers, clinical experience with patients, and discussion with peers as methods by which they learned dental professionalism. Conclusion: The majority of the participants are aware and have a positive attitude toward dental professionalism.