Engaging the millennial generation with e-learning in dentistry

Abstract

The need to move from traditional teaching and learning methods to more interactive approaches has been in high demand from the young generation of tech-savvy students. However, this move in dentistry has been very slow in Malaysia, despite the exponential growth of e-learning in other disciplines. Nevertheless, the Centre for Restorative Dentistry Studies (UiTM) is in the transformation to actively embrace the e-learning curriculum structures combined with traditional teaching methods. Three peer-reviewed e-modules were developed with each module comprised audio-visual lectures, video demonstrations and online students’ assessments. The concept of flipped classroom were applied where these e-modules were uploaded to i-Learn (the university online learning portal) for students to assess at home. Questionnaires were given to assess their perception towards e-modules received. Conventional lectures (82.4%), e-modules (64.7%) and textbooks (64.7%) were reported as the most often material used by students. After the exposure to e-modules, 15 students (29.4%) suggested replacing lectures with e-modules but 36 students (70.6%) insist on having the conventional lectures combined together. Major drawbacks and students concerns (58.8%) were technical problems and the lack of direct communications with the lecturers. However, all students (100%) stated that they would continue to use the e-modules in the future and request for more in other topics. It was evidently found that the students’ perceptions to e-modules are generally positive. However, the drawbacks and their main concerns are points to be considered before further development of a comprehensive blended learning curriculum in the Faculty.