ORCID
- Daniel Zahra: 0000-0001-6534-6916
- Zoe L. Brookes: 0000-0002-8096-6256
- Ewen McColl: 0000-0002-5712-1001
Abstract
Aims: To explore the global trends in blended learning in undergraduate dental educationduring the COVID pandemic and during the recovery phase by engaging with the studentsand faculty and evaluate the implications for dental education in the post-COVID era.Methods: It was a pilot cross-sectional study which employed a convenience sampling techniqueto recruit representatives of dental faculty and undergraduate students in 80 dental institutionsglobally. A previously validated questionnaire consisting of a combination of closed and open-ended items was used for data collection. Responses to these online questionnaires were processedand analysed using the R statistical computing environment.Results: A total of 320 dental students and 169 faculty members from 47 different dentalinstitutions participated in the study. Video and Live Online Tutorials were considered to bethe most effective method of online learning followed by online question banks by bothgroups. Significant differences were noted between faculty and students regarding timespent and effectiveness of online teaching and learning, respectively, both before and afterthe start of COVID. The results highlight the faculty need to engage more closely with thestudents to address their learning needs. Finally, the participants provided several recom-mendations regarding the future development of teaching and learning strategies as well asassessments in the post-pandemic era.Conclusions: This is the first study which explores blended learning in dental education withparticipants from multiple institutions in different regions of the globe. Compared to thefaculty, students considered online learning to be less interactive and preferred learningactivities and all assessments to be delivered face-to-face. The results underscore the need toadapt teaching practices to suit the learning needs of the students.
DOI Link
Publication Date
2023-12-31
Publication Title
Medical Education Online
Volume
28
Issue
1
Acceptance Date
2023-01-19
Deposit Date
2023-02-20
Embargo Period
2023-02-21
Recommended Citation
Ali, K., Alhaija, E., Raja, M., Zahra, D., Brookes, Z., McColl, E., Zafar, S., Kirnbauer, B., Al, W., Al-Fodeh, R., Bani-Hani, T., Daher, S., & Daher, H. (2023) 'Blended learning in undergraduate dental education: a global pilot study', Medical Education Online, 28(1). Available at: 10.1080/10872981.2023.2171700
