26 - Correlation Between Healthcare Communication and Student Competence in a Clinical Pediatric Dentistry Course

Abstract:

Purpose: There is currently no existing framework within dental education to evaluate students’ healthcare communication skills. It is widely accepted that problem-based learning (PBL) strategies are helpful in developing student confidence, enhancing learning experiences, and promoting critical thinking in dental education. The objective of this study is to establish a correlation between healthcare communication and student’s actual and perceived competence for pediatric dentistry diagnosis and treatment planning evaluated through a triple jump assessment. The study evaluated student's competency scores and survey-based perceived competence in pediatric dentistry diagnosis and treatment planning after a triple jump assessment session.

Methods: After institutional review board approval, predoctoral dental student performance data including competency scores, self-evaluations, faculty evaluations, and simulated parent evaluations were reviewed from a cohort of students that received PBL-based pediatric dental assessment. A total of 118 predoctoral dental students' data was identified for evaluation and analysis. The data was paired, anonymized, and sent for statistical analysis by the program director. The entire cohort of students received equitable education and assessment as per the standards set at the University of Colorado’s School of Dental Medicine and Commission on Dental Accreditation.

Results: Preliminary analysis indicated that students who had a good healthcare communication ability demonstrated higher pass scores on their pediatric dentistry competency as measured by the triple jump assessment. Similarly, students with better healthcare communication demonstrated better perceived competence. Detailed results will be provided after comprehensive statistical analysis.

Conclusion: This study provides novel findings regarding the vitality of healthcare communication in dental care.

Identify Supporting Agency and Grant Number: Research supported by Children's Hospital Colorado, and University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine. Protocol number 25-0290.