Pediatric Dentistry Program Directors' Resident Assessment Techniques

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine how pediatric dentistry residency program directors evaluate residents and determine graduation readiness. Methods: A questionnaire containing demographic, multiple answer, and yes/no questions was developed by investigators and piloted to former program directors. An updated survey was distributed electronically to program directors in the United States. Subjects were asked to respond to current resident evaluation strategies and future opportunities. Results: Fifty-seven program directors responded to the survey, for a response rate of 55.9 percent. Most relied on daily observation to determine competence and ability to move to more complex procedures. Most were interested in standardized parameters to determine competence but had concerns about cost and time to implement. Most were not aware of entrustable professional activities as a method to evaluate for competence. Conclusion: Program directors rely primarily on daily observation and formal assessments to evaluate residents and determine readiness for graduation.