Use of peer assessment in tooth extraction competency

Area of Science:

• Dental Education
• Healthcare Simulation
• Competency Assessment

Background:

• Peer assessment is increasingly used in higher education and healthcare training.
• It offers potential benefits for enhancing the student learning experience.
• This study investigated peer assessment for tooth extraction skills in a simulated dental learning environment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the utility of peer assessment for tooth extraction competency.
• To compare peer ratings with academic supervisor ratings in a simulated dental learning environment.

Main Methods:

• Second-year dental students participated in a formative peer assessment of forceps tooth extraction.
• Peer ratings were compared to summative ratings from academic supervisors.
• Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, Spearman's Rho correlations, and intraclass correlation coefficient.

Main Results:

• Most students received consistent ratings between peer and supervisor assessments.
• A notable number of students were rated differently ('Competent' vs. 'Not Competent') between assessments.
• Weak correlations and inter-rater reliability were observed between peer and supervisor ratings.
• Student and supervisor feedback on the peer assessment experience was unanimously positive.
• Participants expressed a desire to integrate peer assessment into other competencies.

Conclusions:

• The study yielded mixed results regarding the effectiveness of peer assessment for tooth extraction competency.
• Peer assessment shows potential as a supplementary tool for dental education.
• Further research is needed to refine peer assessment methods for operative dental competencies.