[Learning while studying dentistry]

The aim of the present study was to gain a better understanding of the significance, use and prevalence of digital as well as analog learning and teaching aids within dentistry studies at the University Center of Dental Medicine Basel (UZB) regarding sociodemographic aspects. A questionnaire was distributed among the three upper years of dental students at the UZB in the autumn semester before the corona pandemic. The results showed that all students use digital devices. The most often used devices in connection with academic studies were portable devices such as laptops or smartphones. It is to mention that students younger than 25 years used smartphones more often as learning aids than their older classmates. The devices were used on average 57 % of the total daily use time for study purposes, whereas private usage time decreased with age and progression of studies. In order to acquire theoretical knowledge, analog and digital formats were equally important. Digital learning aids were mainly used as digitalized lecture notes or for internet research. Advantages were especially seen in timesaving and organizational aspects. The analog learning aids were appreciated for their better learning and less tiring effect. The high prevalence and usage of mobile internet connectable devices as well as the high availability of the internet may indicate a tendency toward mobile learning.