Title : Is team-based learning (TBL) an alternative for dental education?
Abstract:
Historically dental education has been administered either through traditional didactic methods (such as lectures) or dialectic approaches (such as problem-based learning). Didactic methods focussed on the transfer of information from teacher to student, yet arguably this can result in a passive education, which may lack the development of problem-solving skills that are a cornerstone of healthcare professions. Dialectic methods were introduced to healthcare education institutions throughout the world which places the onus of education onto the student and promotes the development of problem- solving skills. These skills are integral for core dental practice. Nevertheless, pedagogies such as problem-based learning and enquiry-based learning are facilitator heavy, and educational institutions often rely on individuals who aren’t clinicians to deliver their curricula. This is compounded by issues of staff recruitment, particularly in the United Kingdom (UK). Team- based learning (TBL), developed in business schools, and utilised in other healthcare professions to great success (higher student satisfaction and student examination performance), may offer a solution to these issues in dental education institutions. Team-based learning channels the benefits of dialectic methods, notably the development of problem-solving skills, but also allows institutions to utilise fewer, but expert facilitators, which will be of benefits to education institutions struggling with appropriate staff recruitment. In equal light, the use of team-based learning approaches may be effective in continuing education (CE) programmes, providing a more active method of learning for delegates. The aim of this presentation will be to introduce dental clinicians who may be involved in educational institutions and those who provide CE, to the concept of team-based learning, its current evidence base in dentistry and to encourage further primary research into this approach.
Audience Take Away:
- The audience will learn what team-based learning (TBL) is, how it differs from didactic and other dialectic pedagogies and the current evidence-base that underpins it
- This presentation will help other academic dentists and those who deliver CE courses to design programmes that use team-based learning to deliver education to students and delegates
- It will also highlight the need for further research and inspire other academic dentists to explore and coordinate further research into team-based learning
