A case-based and team-based learning model in oral and maxillofacial radiology

Area of Science:

• Dental Education
• Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology
• Medical Education

Background:

• Traditional lecture formats in dental education may not fully engage students.
• Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology (OMR) is a critical subject requiring strong diagnostic skills.
• Fourth-year dental students possess foundational clinical experience in radiographic interpretation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the transition of a traditional OMR lecture to a case-based, team-based learning (TBL) model.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of the new OMR curriculum format.
• To assess student learning outcomes and satisfaction with the TBL approach.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 294 fourth-year dental students participated in the case-based, TBL OMR course.
• Students worked in teams to research OMR topics, create presentations, and analyze clinical cases.
• In-class discussions and graded assignments were integral components of the learning process.

Main Results:

• 71% of students reported more comprehensive learning through case-based instruction.
• 77% of students felt in-class discussions enhanced their radiographic interpretation knowledge.
• National Board Dental Examination scores showed slight improvement for participating cohorts.

Conclusions:

• The case-based, team-based learning model is an effective method for teaching Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology.
• Student feedback indicates a preference for active learning strategies in OMR education.
• The curriculum successfully enhanced diagnostic skills and knowledge retention in dental students.