Utilising a web-based e-learning platform for orthodontic case analysis training: a randomised controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Orthodontics
• Dental Education
• Digital Health

Background:

• Structured clinical reasoning is crucial for orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning.
• Undergraduate dental students require effective training methods for case analysis.
• This study compares a web-based training app with conventional analogue methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the diagnostic performance of a web-based orthodontic training app compared to traditional analogue methods.
• To assess the usability and user experience of the digital training tool.
• To determine the potential of digital tools in orthodontic education.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 28 undergraduate dental students.
• Comparison between a digital training group (Orthotrainer app) and an analogue training group.
• Assessment of baseline knowledge, performance improvement, usability (System Usability Scale, User Experience Questionnaire), and knowledge transfer via module exam.

Main Results:

• Both digital and analogue training groups showed significant performance improvement without overall differences.
• The digital tool excelled in radiographic evaluation, while analogue methods were superior in extraoral assessment.
• The Orthotrainer app received significantly higher usability and user experience ratings compared to analogue training.

Conclusions:

• The Orthotrainer web application offers diagnostic performance comparable to conventional analogue training.
• The digital tool is particularly effective for radiographic analysis and demonstrates superior usability.
• Digital tools like Orthotrainer can effectively supplement traditional orthodontic education, enhancing diagnostic reasoning skills.