Enhancing Operational Readiness Through Temporomandibular Disorders Education in the Military Health System

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Musculoskeletal Health
• Digital Learning

Background:

• Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) are prevalent and impact military readiness.
• Current TMD education for health professionals is insufficient and often relies on non-evidence-based methods.
• Educational gaps lead to suboptimal patient care and potential harm.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate an online, interactive curriculum to enhance clinician knowledge and skills in TMD management.
• To address the educational deficit in TMD screening, diagnosis, and treatment.

Main Methods:

• Developed a four-module online curriculum based on Mayer's Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning.
• Incorporated interactive case studies, videos, and clinical tools.
• Utilized principles from the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning.

Main Results:

• Pilot study showed significant knowledge and competence increases in 30 clinicians (P < .01).
• Large effect sizes (Cohen's d > 0.8) were observed across all modules.
• Curriculum is scalable, asynchronous, and adaptable for diverse learner groups.

Conclusions:

• The online curriculum effectively improves TMD knowledge and skills for initial care clinicians.
• Enhanced education can lead to better patient outcomes and improved operational readiness.
• The course is accessible via Joint Knowledge Online and MedEdPORTAL for broad application.