title: An assessment of student experiences and learning based on a novel undergraduate e-learning resource.
abstract: Purpose/objectives The aims of this study were to describe the development of a novel e-learning resource and to assess its impact on student learning experiences and orthodontic knowledge.Methods Thirty-two 4th year dental undergraduate students at Queen Mary University of London were randomly allocated to receive electronic access to e-learning material covering various undergraduate orthodontic topics over a 6-week period. Thirty-one control students were not given access during the study period. All students were asked to complete electronic quizzes both before (T0) and after (T1) the study period and a general questionnaire concerning familiarity with e-learning. The test group also completed a user satisfaction questionnaire at T1. Two focus groups were also undertaken to explore learners' experiences and suggestions in relation to the resource.Results The mean quiz result improved by 3.9% and 4.5% in the control and test groups, respectively. An independent t-test, however, demonstrated a lack of statistical significance in knowledge gain between control and test groups (P = 0.941). The qualitative feedback indicated that students believed that use of the resource enhanced knowledge and basic understanding with students expressing a wish to ingrain similar resources in other areas of undergraduate teaching.Conclusions Use of the novel orthodontic e-resource by 4th year undergraduate students over a 6-week period did not result in a significant improvement in subject knowledge. However, the e-learning has proven popular among undergraduates and the resources will continue to be refined.
authors: Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, The Royal London Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London.
authors: S
authors: S
authors: Mehta
authors: Adult Oral Health, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Institute of Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London.
authors: F
authors: F
authors: Clarke
authors: Oral Growth and Development, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Institute of Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London.
authors: P S
authors: PS
authors: Fleming
mesh_terms: D004497:Education, Dental; D020375:Education, Distance; D005246:Feedback; D017144:Focus Groups; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D007858:Learning; D013335:Students, Dental