Interactive E-Learning Module: Enhancing Panoramic Radiograph Interpretation Skills of Dental Students

Two interactive e-learning modules were developed, focusing on dental panoramic radiograph (DPR) interpretation and a virtual dental clinic (VDC) for communication skills. The aim of the study was twofold: to quantitatively evaluate the effectiveness of the modules in enhancing students' skills in interpreting DPRs and complying with reporting standards in clinical practice, and to qualitatively assess students' perceptions of the module's effectiveness.

A mixed-methods cohort study was conducted over four weeks and included forty-five dental students in their final year. Students were assessed using objective structured radiographic interpretation and objective structured clinical examination assessments before (baseline) and after the e-learning modules. Student perceptions of the modules were evaluated quantitatively using an online questionnaire and qualitatively in focus group discussions. Quantitative data were analyzed using a Wilcoxon signed rank test. Qualitative data from focus group discussions were analyzed using thematic analysis.

After the modules, students' DPR interpretation skills improved for reporting radiographic findings (all p < 0.01), anatomical landmark identification (all p < 0.05), and pathology detection (all p < 0.05). Communication skills improved for reduced jargon usage (p < 0.01). Compliance with DPR reporting increased from 63.3% before to 81.3% after the module (p = 0.03). Students indicated positive perceptions of the modules, highlighted their flexibility, and provided reinforcement.

The e-learning modules with DPR and VDC significantly enhanced student skills in DPR interpretation and clinical communication. These findings support the integration of e-learning modules in dental curricula to improve diagnostic accuracy, knowledge retention, and communication skills.