title: Comprehensive validation of competencies for dental vocational training and general professional training.
abstract: This paper outlines a study designed to validate competencies for dental vocational training (DVT) and general professional training (GPT) in order to ensure their accuracy and acceptability. A highly inclusive approach is described whereby all trainers in Scotland were invited to participate in the exercise. The 168 individuals recruited were drawn from all branches of the dental services and all regions in Scotland. Using online or paper questionnaires, quantitative and qualitative data were collected for each competency statement over 9 months, after which focus groups discussed and decided which changes should be made. A high response rate was observed and from the 160 competencies originally identified, almost half (47.5%) were redrafted as a direct result of the validation process. Sections of the competency document that required most attention are discussed, as are the nature of changes made to the competencies. As a result of this study, a fully validated competency document for DVT and GPT has been produced and will allow a high degree of standardization of training through the provision of essential consistent information to trainers and VDPs.
authors.affiliation: NHS Education for Scotland, The Lister, 11 Hill Square, Edinburgh EH8 9DR, UK. Linda.Prescott@nes.scot.nhs.uk
authors.forename: L
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Prescott
authors.forename: Y
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Hurst
authors.forename: J S
authors.initials: JS
authors.lastname: Rennie
mesh_terms: D002983:Clinical Competence / Q000592:standards*; D003142:Communication; D003162:Competency-Based Education / Q000592:standards*; D004497:Education, Dental / Q000592:standards*; D004990:Ethics, Dental; D017144:Focus Groups; D005792:General Practice, Dental / Q000193:education / Q000592:standards; D006801:Humans; D007396:Internship and Residency / Q000592:standards; D011215:Practice Management, Dental; D012606:Scotland; D013039:Specialties, Dental / Q000193:education / Q000592:standards; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires