Providing advanced degrees in dental hygiene via computer mediated distance learning: a model program.

Area of Science:

• Health Professions Education
• Distance Learning Technologies
• Instructional Design

Background:

• Quality of experience is a primary concern in health professions distance education.
• Distance learning offers potential benefits like increased access and individualized instruction.
• Common challenges include technical issues and lack of real-time interaction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address quality concerns in health professions distance education.
• To enhance an existing distance learning program through real-time interaction.
• To demonstrate the viability of distance education for geographically separated learners.

Main Methods:

• Implemented a synchronous, real-time learning environment.
• Integrated professors, technologists, and students within the same virtual space.
• Utilized distance education platforms for the Dental Hygiene program at UMKC.

Main Results:

• Successfully addressed technical problems and interaction frustrations.
• Enhanced the quality of the distance learning experience.
• Facilitated real-time, interactive instruction among separated learners.

Conclusions:

• Distance education can provide high-quality instruction for geographically dispersed health professions students.
• Real-time integration of educators and learners overcomes common distance learning barriers.
• This model presents a viable solution to the shortage of healthcare educators.