The specification of learning outcomes in dentistry

Area of Science:

• Dental Education
• Medical Education Models
• Outcome-Based Education

Background:

• Growing demand for outcome-based education in dentistry necessitates clear learning outcome specifications.
• Existing educational models require adaptation to meet the specific needs of dental training.
• The medical three circle model offers a potential framework for defining dental learning outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To adapt the medical three circle model for specifying learning outcomes in dental education.
• To provide a user-friendly framework for dental curriculum and examination planning.
• To explore the model's utility in reconciling vocational and academic training tensions.

Main Methods:

• Adaptation of the established medical three circle model for application in dentistry.
• Structuring learning outcomes based on three core dimensions: 'doing the right thing,' 'doing the thing right,' and 'the right person doing it.'
• Evaluation of the model's applicability in curriculum design and assessment planning.

Main Results:

• The adapted three circle model provides an effective and user-friendly format for dental learning outcomes.
• The model encompasses key aspects of a dentist's work: competence, approach, and professionalism.
• The framework is readily understood and accepted by both dental students and educators.

Conclusions:

• The adapted three circle model is a valuable tool for defining and structuring dental learning outcomes.
• This model supports effective curriculum development, examination planning, and professional identity formation in dentistry.
• The framework successfully bridges vocational and academic aspects of dental education.