Exploring the Informal Learning Resources Used by Dental Students: A Mixed Method

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Dental Education

Background:

• Informal learning resources supplement formal education in professional identity development.
• Understanding dental students' use of informal learning is crucial for enhancing their educational journey.

Purpose of the Study:

• Assess dental students' preferences for informal learning resources.
• Explore challenges and motivations influencing the use of these resources.
• Identify effective strategies for integrating informal learning into dental curricula.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods approach combining quantitative questionnaires and qualitative interviews.
• Surveyed 1000 dental students across Syrian universities.
• Conducted semi-structured interviews with 15 postgraduate and 30 undergraduate students.

Main Results:

• High engagement reported for peer learning (76.2-79.6%) and social media (79.4-80.6%).
• Significant challenges identified in using open educational resources, social media, and attending conferences (71.6-76.2%).
• Undergraduates cited lack of time; postgraduates noted payment issues for open educational resources as key barriers.

Conclusions:

• Informal learning resources are vital tools for dental students' education.
• Faculty guidance is essential to optimize the use of informal learning resources.
• Integrating informal learning effectively can enhance the overall dental educational experience.