The Pathways in Practice programme: an investigation into its potential use by general dental practitioners

Area of Science:

• Dental Education
• Continuing Professional Development
• General Dental Practice

Background:

• The 'Pathways in Practice' programme aims to enhance distance learning for general dental practitioners (GDPs).
• Understanding the specific postgraduate support needs of GDPs is crucial for effective program implementation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify the perceived postgraduate support needs of general dental practitioners participating in the 'Pathways in Practice' programme.
• To inform the organization of postgraduate support by Divisional Diploma Tutors.

Main Methods:

• Four meetings were conducted to introduce the 'Pathways in Practice' programme to GDPs in the Trent region.
• An investigation was undertaken during these meetings to gather feedback on support needs.

Main Results:

• The majority of GDPs favoured small-group, peer review-type meetings.
• Additional teaching materials and tutorial sessions were highly desired.
• Specific support needs for those pursuing the Diploma in General Dental Practice RCS (Eng) included mock examinations and feedback on written questions.

Conclusions:

• Divisional Diploma Tutors should prioritize peer-led small-group sessions, supplementary materials, and targeted feedback for specific examinations.
• The 'Pathways in Practice' programme can be integrated with vocational training schemes and peer review meetings.
• Tutors need to be aware of the time demands associated with providing this enhanced postgraduate support.