Volume 17, Issue 4 (2026)
Res Med Edu 2026, 17(4): 59-66 |
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Dadgaran I, Neshandar Asli H, Moshkbouy E, Hendi A. Design, Implementation, and Evaluation of a One-Week Early Clinical Exposure (ECE) Program for Preclinical Dental Students at Guilan University of Medical Sciences. Res Med Edu 2026; 17 (4) :59-66
URL: http://rme.gums.ac.ir/article-1-1504-en.html
URL: http://rme.gums.ac.ir/article-1-1504-en.html
Dental Sciences Research Center, Department of Prosthodontics, School of Dentistry, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran , amirreza1990@gmail.com
Abstract: (426 Views)
Introduction: To enhance the quality of education, achieve higher standards in dental training, and improve students' understanding of clinical procedures, it is essential to introduce gradual changes in dental education. One such approach involves utilizing modern information technology and implementing innovative methods, such as Early Clinical Exposure (ECE), enhancing learning experience for people involved in this education(both students and educators).
The primary aim of the ECE program is to integrate basic and clinical sciences while reducing students’ anxiety and stress associated with clinical environments. In addition, ECE serves as a bridge between preclinical and clinical skills for dental students.
Methods: In this study, 40 students (four groups of 10) from the 2016 cohort of Guilan Dental School were selected as participants. The study followed the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SOTL) developmental framework. After conducting orientation sessions for students and faculty members and obtaining informed consent, a four-hour introductory tour (one hour per group) was organized. Following that, over four weeks (one week per group), students were introduced to five clinical departments in a structured manner from Saturday to Wednesday each week: (1) periodontology, (2) oral disease diagnosis, (3) radiology, (4) oral and maxillofacial surgery, and (5) prosthodontics. Data collection was conducted through reflective note-taking and interviews, capturing students' and instructors' opinions and experiences, followed by qualitative content analysis.
Results: The results of this process indicated that the development goals have been achieved. Furthermore, evaluations based on the opinions of faculty members and students demonstrated satisfaction with the implementation of this plan highlighting the need for its continuation.
Conclusion: The implementation of the ECE program contributed to the professionalism,improving learning and help dental students to confront uncertainties in clinical practice.Generally, The integration of ECE into the dental curriculum was recognized as beneficial.
The primary aim of the ECE program is to integrate basic and clinical sciences while reducing students’ anxiety and stress associated with clinical environments. In addition, ECE serves as a bridge between preclinical and clinical skills for dental students.
Methods: In this study, 40 students (four groups of 10) from the 2016 cohort of Guilan Dental School were selected as participants. The study followed the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SOTL) developmental framework. After conducting orientation sessions for students and faculty members and obtaining informed consent, a four-hour introductory tour (one hour per group) was organized. Following that, over four weeks (one week per group), students were introduced to five clinical departments in a structured manner from Saturday to Wednesday each week: (1) periodontology, (2) oral disease diagnosis, (3) radiology, (4) oral and maxillofacial surgery, and (5) prosthodontics. Data collection was conducted through reflective note-taking and interviews, capturing students' and instructors' opinions and experiences, followed by qualitative content analysis.
Results: The results of this process indicated that the development goals have been achieved. Furthermore, evaluations based on the opinions of faculty members and students demonstrated satisfaction with the implementation of this plan highlighting the need for its continuation.
Conclusion: The implementation of the ECE program contributed to the professionalism,improving learning and help dental students to confront uncertainties in clinical practice.Generally, The integration of ECE into the dental curriculum was recognized as beneficial.
Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
Clinical Education
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