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Making gross anatomy relevant to dental students.
Geoffrey D Guttmann1, Terence P Ma, Brian R MacPherson
1Institute of Clinical Education, Peninsula Medical School, Plymouth Campus, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, United Kingdom. geoff.guttmann@pms.ac.uk
Journal of Dental Education
|April 1, 2003
Summary
Dental gross anatomy courses were enhanced to improve relevance for students. Strategies included integrating clinical content and faculty, and using innovative teaching methods for better dental practice preparation.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy Education
- Dental Curriculum Development
Background:
- Gross anatomy courses face challenges in making neck-below anatomy relevant to dental students.
- Bridging the gap between foundational anatomical sciences and clinical dental practice is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe curriculum enhancements in dental gross anatomy courses at three North American universities.
- To present strategies for increasing the clinical relevance of gross anatomy for dental education.
Main Methods:
- Incorporation of clinical faculty into gross anatomy instruction.
- Integration of dental clinical material into the anatomy curriculum.
- Implementation of pedagogical innovations such as peer teaching and digital resources.
Main Results:
- Curriculum modifications aimed to meet examination requirements and enhance clinical applicability.
- Innovative methods were employed to illustrate anatomy relevant to dental procedures.
- Student engagement and understanding of anatomical relevance were targeted.
Conclusions:
- Enhanced dental gross anatomy curricula can improve the connection between anatomical knowledge and clinical dentistry.
- Integrating clinical perspectives and modern pedagogical tools is key to effective anatomy education for dentists.
- These enhancements support better preparation for dental practice and board examinations.