A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY ON THE INTEREST OF DENTAL STUDENTS IN BASIC SCIENCES AND CLINICAL ELECTIVES
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Keywords
Dental education, elective preferences, basic sciences, clinical sciences, curriculum development
Abstract
Background: This cross-sectional study explores the elective preferences among dental students in Peshawar, focusing on their interest in both basic sciences and clinical electives. Understanding these preferences is crucial for curriculum developers aiming to enhance dental education.
Methods: A total of 237 students from various dental colleges participated in the study, which utilized a descriptive cross-sectional design. Data were collected using an online Google Form from November 2022 to February 2023. The study included sections on demographic information, interest in electives, preferred fields, and interest in basic versus clinical sciences. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 22, employing descriptive statistics to summarize participant responses.
Results: The findings indicate a predominant interest among dental students in clinical sciences, with Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery being the most preferred elective field (35.6%). In basic sciences, Research Methodology garnered the highest interest (39.9%). Significant interest was also noted in electives focusing on Communication Skills (30.1%) and Stress Management (28.0%). Short-term electives, particularly those lasting four weeks or less, were favored by a majority of students.
Conclusion: These results underscore the need for dental curricula to include diverse elective offerings that align with student interests, enhancing both clinical competencies and non-clinical skills crucial for dental practice. Tailoring educational programs to meet these preferences can better prepare dental students for their professional careers. Future studies could further explore the impact of elective choices on career outcomes and patient care.
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FaizaTariq
Student, Peshawar Dental College, Riphah International University, Islamabad.
Dr. Farzeen Khan
Associate Professor, Department of Community & Preventive Dentistry, Peshawar Dental College, Riphah International University, Islamabad.
Maimoona Khanzada
Student, Peshawar Dental College, Riphah International University, Islamabad.
Dr. Khadija Bibi
Lecturer, Department of Community & Preventive Dentistry, Peshawar Dental College, Riphah International University, Islamabad.
Sania Jamal
Student, Peshawar Dental College, Riphah International University, Islamabad.
Aleeza Rahim
Student, Peshawar Dental College, Riphah International University, Islamabad.
Aleena Javed Afridi
Student, Peshawar Dental College, Riphah International University, Islamabad.
Dr. Mehreen Imran
Associate Professor, Department of Science of Dental Material, Peshawar Dental College, Riphah International University, Islamabad.