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Academic Pre-Orientation Program for Dental Students: Beginning and End of Program Evaluations, 1998-2016
Evan R D'Silva1, Marilyn W Woolfolk1, Renee E Duff1
1Mr. D'Silva is Research Assistant, Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine, School of Dentistry, University of Michigan; Dr. Woolfolk is Emerita Professor, Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine and Assistant Dean Emerita, School of Dentistry, University of Michigan; Dr. Duff is Clinical Associate Professor, Department of Biologic and Materials Sciences and Assistant Dean for Student Services, School of Dentistry, University of Michigan; and Dr. Inglehart is Professor, Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine, School of Dentistry and Adjunct Professor, Department of Psychology, College of Literature, Science, & Arts, University of Michigan.
This study found that incoming dental students from diverse backgrounds were most interested in basic science and dentistry topics. The pre-orientation program was positively evaluated, enhancing their confidence and learning experience.
Area of Science:
- Dental Education
- Health Professions Education
- Student Diversity
Background:
- Admitting students from non-traditional or disadvantaged backgrounds enhances dental school class diversity.
- Academic pre-orientation programs aim to prepare incoming students for rigorous coursework.
- Understanding student interests and confidence levels is crucial for program effectiveness.
Observation:
- Incoming dental students showed higher interest in basic science and dentistry topics compared to academic skills.
- Students reported greater confidence in dentistry-related abilities than in basic science.
- Surveys at the beginning and end of the program captured student interest, confidence, and evaluations.
Findings:
- Student interest and confidence in basic science and dentistry topics were positively correlated.
- More recent program years correlated with lower student confidence in basic science but higher program value.
- Increased program participants were associated with higher student confidence and better evaluations of basic science and dentistry education.
Implications:
- Pre-orientation programs effectively increase diversity and prepare students for dental school.
- Tailoring academic skills training to student needs can improve program outcomes.
- The program positively impacts student confidence and perceived educational value, supporting diverse student success in dentistry.
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