Feedback from dental students: performance in an anatomy department

A questionnaire was devised and administered to first-year dental students to obtain feedback on the courses in an anatomy department. A closed statement format was used with a small number of open requests for comment, both to elicit information which would lead to course improvement, and also to validate the questionnaire itself and assess its suitability for inclusion in a formal appraisal system. Data were produced on course structure, teaching methods, examinations and personal tutoring. The students were divided into subgroups and their perceptions in these areas compared. The median responses to closed statements for each discipline within anatomy were calculated and displayed graphically as course profiles. The questionnaire itself is discussed in detail in relation to the validity of the feedback produced. Improvements are suggested and the questionnaire found to be suitable for wide usage in an appraisal system, particularly with the development of course profiles. The specific responses by the students, and their requests for further guidance, are also considered and suggestions made for alterations in the courses.