Educational strategies associated with development of problem-solving, critical thinking, and self-directed learning

Area of Science:

• Dental Education
• Cognitive Science in Learning

Background:

• The Commission on Change and Innovation in Dental Education (CCI) was formed to coordinate efforts in dental education.
• Numerous organizations have proposed dental education modifications without central coordination.
• CCI aims to improve dental education and oral health by fostering collaboration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify educational best practices for dental students.
• To help students achieve entry-level general dentist competency or readiness for advanced studies.
• To provide a benchmark for dental schools to assess curriculum development for cognitive skills.

Main Methods:

• A review of evidence on educational best practices for dental students.
• Analysis of concepts related to expertise, novice vs. expert thinking.
• Focus on developing critical thinking and self-directed learning skills.

Main Results:

• Defines expertise and the transition from novice to expert.
• Highlights differences in cognitive processes between novices and experts.
• Identifies educational strategies to foster expert cognitive functions in dental students.

Conclusions:

• Dental schools need to integrate learning experiences that develop problem-solving and critical thinking.
• Curricula should foster self-directed learning for lifelong professional development.
• These cognitive skills are essential for dental graduates to become expert performers.