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Train Strategies for Haptic and 3D Simulators to Improve the Learning Process in Dentistry Students
Gleyvis Coro-Montanet1, María Jesús Pardo Monedero1, Julia Sánchez Ituarte1
1Preclinical Dentistry Department, School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Villaviciosa de Odoón Campus, Universidad Europea de Madrid, 28670 Madrid, Spain.
Summary
Dental simulators offer a solution to training challenges, but effective integration requires more than just direct use. Students and educators found hands-on simulator practice superior to preparatory materials for skill acquisition.
Area of Science:
- Dental Education
- Medical Simulation Technology
Background:
- Dental training faces ethical and resource challenges, including a shortage of extracted teeth and environmental concerns.
- Haptic and 3D simulators offer advanced training but present complex curricular integration issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of supplementary didactic resources (manuals, videos) for dental simulator training.
- To assess student and teacher perceptions of learning and skill acquisition with simulators.
- To analyze the relationship between resource utilization and learning outcomes.
Main Methods:
- An evaluative study involving 175 students and 32 teachers after 5 years of simulator use.
- Statistical analysis using Spearman's Rho and Kolmogorov-Smirnov tests.
- Comparison of student and teacher perceptions regarding simulator proficiency.
Main Results:
- Both students and teachers identified practical simulator operation ('technical domain') as the most significant learning aspect.
- Students tended to undervalue the necessity of preparatory study materials.
- Low engagement with written manuals and video tutorials was observed.
- A strong preference for direct simulator interaction over preparatory resources was noted.
Conclusions:
- Direct hands-on experience with dental simulators is perceived as the most effective learning strategy by both students and educators.
- The integration and perceived value of supplementary theoretical and technical resources require further investigation and potential revision.
- Future dental simulation training may benefit from optimizing the balance between guided preparation and direct practice.
