Conception and implementation of a novel E-learning module with EbM learning contents in operative dentistry

• Published in: Zeitschrift für Evidenz, Fortbildung und Qualität im Gesundheitswesen Fortbildung und Qualität im Gesundheitswesen, 2017-11, Vol.127-128, p.72-78
• Main Authors: Gerhardt-Szép, Susanne, Dreher, Stefanie, Rüttermann, Stefan, Weberschock, Tobias
• Format: Article
• Language: ger
• Subjects: Computer-Assisted Instruction; Curriculum; Dentistry, Operative - education; Education, Dental, Continuing; Education, Distance; Educational Measurement; Germany; Humans; Learning
• ISSN: 2212-0289
• DOI: 10.1016/j.zefq.2017.09.001

Computer-assisted learning (CAL) programs are becoming more widely used in medical and dental training. However, the combination of CAL programs and evidence-based education in dentistry has not been described previously. The aim was to determine the acceptance and user-friendliness of a CAL program combined with evidence-based training. The didactic concept of the module includes the case-oriented, problem-based embedding of a total of 32 EbM learning assignments, which can be completed interactively and self-determinedly in an interdisciplinary context using focus patients with different diseases. The present study was conducted at the Dental School of the Goethe University in Frankfurt/Main. Data on acceptance and user-friendliness were collected from three consecutive cohorts of 114 dental students attending their first clinical semester. They used the "Toothache Walk-in Clinic: FOCUS" CAL, which can be downloaded via the Internet. The instrument consisted of 64 statements. The first part addressed general information about the user. The second part contained 43 specific statements on the CAL program. These included factors A (handling and technical aspects), B (content and functional range), and C (didactics and suitability for education). Possible responses ranged from 0 to 3 (0 = strongly disagree, 3 = strongly agree). All of the 114 questionnaires distributed were returned (response rate 100%). Most users (90.1%) considered the topics of evidence-based dentistry important for their training. They rated the program by using German school grades, and the overall rating was 2.26 (SD = 0.64). Most students (88.6%) considered the program useful for their clinical training in the treatment of patients. The mean scores for the 43 specific items amounted to 1.90 (factor A, SD = 0.63), 1.55 (factor B, SD = 1.93), and 2.23 (factor C, SD = 0.79). The CAL program with dental medicine vignettes and learning elements for evidence-based medicine received a primarily positive assessment. Students welcome that EbM contents are offered as part of their dental studies curriculum.