New Perspectives in Science Education

Introduction
Achieving excellence in students once they enter the clinic poses a challenge to educators.  New York University College of Dentistry implements technological programs that will help students achieve their goals.

Objective
In Simulation courses the students are required to observe a DVD prior to class time that demonstrates the procedure on a typodont. In the clinical setting the students continue to use these tools and apply the skills that are learned and taught in the preclinical course to clinical practice.

Methods
During the treatment plan process, when a patient needs an indirect restoration, the student is required to observe the DVD of the acquired procedure the day before the patient appointment. The DVD is available online through NYU classes’ website.

The core technique at NYUCD is to make two impressions and pour them. Students are required to perform an indirect preparation on the cast and show it to their faculty.  The faculty critically evaluates the preparation and gives the student a feedback. This creates a dialogue between student and educator.  Students learn, the faculty asks open-ended questions allowing the students to think and assess.  Once everything is approved by faculty, the student is ready to perform the procedure on the patient.

Conclusion
By the use of DVD, Quick Time Digital Video, and virtual imaging the student will be able to increase their efficiency as they learn and develop clinical skills.