Dental Hygiene Learning Outcomes Obtained Through Computer-Assisted Simulation Modules.

Area of Science:

• Dental Hygiene Education
• Medical Simulation
• E-Learning

Background:

• Competent healthcare providers require up-to-date education, but educator and clinical hours are often limited.
• Interactive simulation modules offer a potential solution to supplement traditional dental hygiene education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the learning outcomes of interactive simulation modules for dental hygiene education.
• To assess the practicality of these modules within a computerized learning system.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-nine Japanese dental hygiene undergraduates utilized five interactive modules via a learning management system (LMS) for one month.
• Modules simulated virtual clinical scenarios for decision-making in English, with pre- and post-tests and questionnaires assessing knowledge and feedback.
• Participants were divided into study and non-study groups for comparative analysis.

Main Results:

• The study group demonstrated significantly higher post-test scores than the non-study group (p=0.024).
• Significant improvement in scores was observed from pre-test to post-test within the study group (p=0.001).
• Participants found the interactive modules convenient and beneficial, with a 100% response rate.

Conclusions:

• Self-paced interactive modules delivered via an LMS are beneficial for dental hygiene students.
• These modules enhance the acquisition of English language skills for clinical decision-making.
• The study supports the integration of simulation modules into dental hygiene curricula.