Problem-based learning: Dental student's perception of their education environments at Qassim University

Abstract

Aims:The objectives of this study were to assess perceptions of the Saudi dental students of the problem-based learning (PBL) curriculum and to compare their perceptions among different sex and academic years.Subjects and Methods:Data was collected through a questionnaire-based survey at Qassim College of dentistry. The questionnaire consisted of 19 questions regarding the perception of PBL curriculum and was distributed to 240 students. The chi-square test was used for statistical analysis of the data.Results:Out of the 240 students recruited for this study, 146 returned a complete questionnaire (the response rate was 60.8%). The majority of the students perceived that PBL enhances the ability to speak in front of people (91.1%); improved the ability to find the information using the internet/library (81.5%); enhances the problem-solving skills (71.3%); increases the practice of cooperative and collaborative learning (69.2%); improves the decision-making skills (66.4%). Sixty-five percent (n = 96) noted that some students dominate whereas others are passive during PBL discussion session. Statistically, significant differences were found in the following variables according to the academic year students assuming before responsibility for their own learning (P < 0.037) and the role of facilitator in the process (P < 0.034). Moreover, according to gender; there were statistically significant differences in the following variables, assuming responsibility for own learning (P < 0.003); activating prior knowledge and learning to elaborate and organize their knowledge (P < 0.009); enhancing the ability to find the information using the Internet/library (P < 0.014); PBL is effective without having lecture of the same topic (P < 0.025); helping in identifying the areas of weakness for improvement (P < 0.031); student understanding the objectives of the PBL session better than the conventional way (P < 0.040); and enhancing the ability to speak in front of people (P < 0.040).Conclusions:Perceptions of Saudi dental students regarding their education environments at Qassim College of dentistry using PBL hybrid curriculum were more positive than negative. However, improvements are still required to provide students with stimulating favorable learning environment and to take the students recommendations into consideration.

<p>Role of problem-based learning in undergraduate dental education: a questionnaire-based study</p>

“…The present cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was based on the hypothesis that PBL is a valuable educational tool for undergraduate dental education. This hypothesis was based upon results from previous studies from Saudi Arabia that assessed the same topic, however, with varying results 14,19,20…”

“…Thus, there is a dearth of studies that have assessed the perception of undergraduate dental students involved in PBL programs. However, a study14 from a university in the province of Qassim, Saudi Arabia, assessed the perceptions of dental students toward the PBL curriculum. The results showed that students perceived the PBL curriculum to be an effective means of enhancing knowledge, which helped improve their public communication skills 14.…”

“…However, a study14 from a university in the province of Qassim, Saudi Arabia, assessed the perceptions of dental students toward the PBL curriculum. The results showed that students perceived the PBL curriculum to be an effective means of enhancing knowledge, which helped improve their public communication skills 14. In another study conducted at a university in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, at least 50% students reported that they did not receive adequate training before starting the PBL sessions,15 and nearly 25% of students agreed that the teaching staff were well trained to conduct the sessions 15.…”

Perspective of Teaching Methodologies in Dentistry: Active vs Passive Learning

“…Most of the participant's opted interactive sessions bridge the gap between staffs and students but still half among them prefer to clarify their doubts with seniors/friends [1][2][3][4] . The fact that English is the medium of study did not hamper the learning in any aspect shows that with increased exposure to internet students are able to quickly adapt to the language The role of a teacher in the present day is not only teaching but also in motivating students in the particular subject.…”

“…Numerous minor glands also contribute to the volume of saliva secreted. Normal saliva is mainly composed of glandular secretion, cervicular fluid, exfoliated epithelial cells, oral bacteria, Immunoglobulin (IgA), digestive enzymes like amylase, zymogen granules and proteases 3,4 . There are also certain biomarkers present which are specific for certain diseases.…”