Virtual vs Traditional Learning in Dental Education
Author Information
Author(s): Madi Marwa, Gaffar Balgis, Farooqi Faraz Ahmed, Zakaria Osama, Sadaf Shazia, Alhareky Muhanad, AlHumaid Jehan, Sehic Amer, Suzuki Marcelo
Primary Institution: Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University
Hypothesis
There would be no significant difference between traditional and virtual learning with regard to theoretical knowledge, perception, and student satisfaction.
Conclusion
Students prefer traditional learning over virtual learning, especially males and preclinical dental students.
Supporting Evidence
- 87% of 3rd-year preclinical students preferred traditional learning over virtual learning.
- 70% to 89% of students found virtual lectures more organized than traditional ones.
- Male students showed a significant preference for traditional methods (p = 0.001).
- 62% believed virtual classrooms were more effective for preclinical courses.
Takeaway
Most dental students like learning in a classroom better than online because they can talk to their teachers and friends more easily.
Methodology
A cross-sectional survey was administered to dental students using a validated questionnaire.
Potential Biases
Self-reported data may introduce recall bias, and the questionnaire design could limit response range.
Limitations
The study's cross-sectional design limits causal inferences, and the sample was restricted to one institution.
Participant Demographics
313 dental students, 49% male and 51% female, from preclinical and clinical years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p = 0.001
Confidence Interval
95%
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website