Skip to main content

Advertisement

SpringerLink
Log in

Understanding the nuances of E-learning in orthodontic education

  • Published:
Education and Information Technologies Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

The aim of this study is to understand the phenomenon of e-learning in orthodontic graduate education. The study has assessed e-learning based on two objectives, with the primary objective, summarising the outcomes and implications of e-learning over other forms of learning. The outcomes have been further discussed under primary and secondary measures. The secondary objective was to understand the impediments in the integration of technological advances in orthodontic educational instruction. The study conducted a comprehensive electronic search in the English language from January 1980 up to April 2019 on PubMed, Medline, EMBASE and Google Scholar. The search incorporated standard Boolean operators and keywords. The Problem/Patient/Population, Intervention, Comparison or Control, and Outcome (PICO) criteria were applied in the selection of reviewed articles. Pre-set inclusion and exclusion criteria were followed for article selection. Following the above-mentioned parameters, a total of twenty-one studies met the inclusion criteria with seventeen studies measuring the primary outcome of knowledge and skill gain. Twelve studies assessing the secondary outcome comprised of students’ attitudes towards e-learning instructions. All the twenty-one studies provided an understanding on the methods employed and content delivered through computer assisted learning. Overall, knowledge gain and student’s attitudes were found to be positive following e-learning. However, more e-learning programs and learning environments with interactive experiences must be developed and tested to fully understand the effects these systems offer. The review, in addition, has highlighted the implications and impediments of technology-assisted learning with a proposed step-wise approach in overcoming these challenges. The review concludes with a brief introduction into a new concept of smart learning environment.

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.

Access this article

Log in via an institution

Price excludes VAT (USA)
Tax calculation will be finalised during checkout.

Instant access to the full article PDF.

Institutional subscriptions

Fig. 1

Similar content being viewed by others

References

  • Al-Jewair, T. S., Azarpazhooh, A., Suri, S., & Shah, P. S. (2009). Computer-assisted learning in orthodontic education: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Dental Education, 73(6), 730–739.

    Google Scholar 

  • Alqahtani, N. D., Al-Jewair, T., AL-Moammar, K., Albarakati, S. F., & Alkofide, E. A. (2015). Live demonstration versus procedural video: A comparison of two methods for teaching an orthodontic laboratory procedure. BMC Medical Education, 15, 199. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-015-0479-y.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Aly, M., Willems, G., Carels, C., & Elen, J. (2003). Instructional multimedia programs for self-directed learning in undergraduate and postgraduate training in orthodontics. European Journal of Dental Education, 7, 20–26.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Aly, M., Elen, J., & Willems, G. (2004). Instructional multimedia program versus standard lecture: A comparison of two methods for teaching the undergraduate orthodontic curriculum. European Journal of Dental Education, 8, 43–46.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Andrews, K. G., & Demps, E. L. (2003). Distance education in the U.S. and Canadian undergraduate dental curriculum. Journal of Dental Education, 67(4), 427–438.

    Google Scholar 

  • Bednar, E. D., Hannum, W. M., Firestone, A., Silveira, A. M., Cox, T. D., & Proffit, W. R. (2007). Application of distance learning to interactive seminar instruction in orthodontic residency programs. American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, 132, 586–594.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Behar-Horenstein, L. S., & Horvath, Z. (2016). Generational learning differences in Today’s dental students: A popular myth. Journal of Dental Education, 80(5), 588–594.

    Google Scholar 

  • Berman, N. B., Fall, L. H., Maloney, C. G., & Levine, D. A. (2008). Computer-assisted instruction in clinical education: A roadmap to increasing CAI implementation. Advances in Health Sciences Education: Theory and Practice, 13(3), 373–383.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Bhola, S. (2017). E-learning as a platform for the future of education in dentistry. International Journal of Educational Policy Research and Review, 4(2), 14–18.

    Google Scholar 

  • Blue, C., & Henson, H. (2015). Millennials and dental education: Utilizing educational Technology for Effective Teaching. American Dental Hygienists Association, 89(suppl 1), 46–47.

    Google Scholar 

  • Buchanan, J. A. (2001). Use of simulation technology in dental education. Journal of Dental Education, 65(11), 1225–1231.

    Google Scholar 

  • Chadwick, S. M., Bearn, D. R., Jack, A. C., & O’Brien, K. D. (2002). Orthodontic undergraduate education: Developments in a modern curriculum. European Journal of Dental Education, 6, 57–63.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Clark, R. D., Weerakone, S., & Rock, W. P. (1997). A hypertext tutorial for teaching cephalometrics. British Journal of Orthodontics, 24, 325–328.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Cohen, H. B., Walker, S. R., Tenenbaum, H. C., & Spero, L. (2003). Interdisciplinary, web-based, self-study, interactive programs in the dental undergraduate program: A pilot. Journal of Dental Education, 67(6), 661–667.

    Google Scholar 

  • DiLullo, C., McGee, P., & Kriebel, R. M. (2011). Demystifying the millennial student: A reassessment in measures of character and engagement in professional education. Anatomical Sciences Education, 4, 214–226.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Evans, L., & Hanes, P. J. (2014). Online cultural competency education for millennial dental students. Journal of Dental Education, 78(6), 867–875.

    Google Scholar 

  • Fletcher, R. H., Fletcher, S. W., & Wagner, E. H. (1996). Clinical epidemiology: The essentials. Baltimore: Williams and Wilkins.

    Google Scholar 

  • Gadbury-Amyot, C. C., Overman, P. R., & Crain, G. (2009). The development and implementation of an online applied biochemistry bridge course for a dental hygiene curriculum. Journal of Dental Education, 73(1), 83–94.

    Google Scholar 

  • Grimes, E. B. (2002). Student perceptions of an online dental terminology course. Journal of Dental Education, 66(1), 100–107.

    Google Scholar 

  • Gros, B. (2016). The design of smart educational environments. Smart Learning Environments, 3(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40561-016-0039-x.

  • Haig, A., & Dozier, M. (2003). BEME guide no. 3: Systematic searching for evidence in medical education—Part 1: Sources of information. Medical Teacher, 25(4), 352–363.

    Google Scholar 

  • Hammond, R. M., & Freer, T. J. (1997). Application of a case-based expert system to orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning. Australasian Orthodontic Journal, 14, 229–234.

    Google Scholar 

  • Haynes, R. B., Sackett, D. L., Richardson, W. S., Rosenberg, W., & Langley, G. R. (1997). Evidence-based medicine: How to practice & teach EBM. Canadian Medical Association Journal, 157(6), 788.

    Google Scholar 

  • Hendricson, W. D. (2012). Changes in educational methodologies in predoctoral dental education: Finding the perfect intersection. Journal of Dental Education, 76(1), 118–141.

    Google Scholar 

  • Hendricson, W. D., Panagakos, F., Eisenberg, E., McDonald, J., Guest, G., & Jones, P. (2004). Electronic curriculum implementation at north American dental schools. Journal of Dental Education, 68, 1041–1057.

    Google Scholar 

  • Hendricson, W., Eisenberg, E., Guest, G., Jones, P., Johnson, L., & Panagakos, F. (2006). What do dental students think about mandatory laptop programs? Journal of Dental Education, 70(5), 480–499.

    Google Scholar 

  • Hobson, R. S., Carter, N. E., Hall, F. M., & Atkins, M. J. (1998). A study into the effectiveness of a text-based computer-assisted learning program in comparison with seminar teaching of orthodontics. European Journal of Dental Education, 2, 154–159.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Honey, P., & Mumford, A. (1982). The manual of learning styles. Maidenhead: Peter Honey.

  • Hwang, G. J. (2014). Definition, framework and research issues of smart learning environments- a context aware ubiquitous learning perspective. Smart Learning Environments, 1(4), 1–14.

  • Ireland, A. J., Atack, N. E., & Sandy, J. R. (2012). Experiences of wiki topic teaching in postgraduate orthodontics: What do the learners think? European Journal of Dental Education, 17, e109–e113.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Irvine, N. R., & Moore, R. N. (1986). Computer-assisted instruction in mixed dentition analysis. Journal of Dental Education, 50(6), 312–315.

    Google Scholar 

  • Jackson, T. H., Hannum, W. H., Koroluk, L., & Proffit, W. R. (2011). Effectiveness of web-based teaching modules: Test-enhanced learning in dental education. Journal of Dental Education, 75(6), 775–781.

    Google Scholar 

  • Johnson, L., Becker, S. A., & Cummins, M. (2013). NMC horizon report: Higher education edition. Austin: New Media Consortium.

    Google Scholar 

  • Kinzie, M. B. (1990). Requirements and benefits of effective interaction instruction: Learner control, self-regulation, and continuing motivation. Educational Technology Research and Development, 38, 5–21.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Klein, K. P., Hannum, W. H., Fields, H. W., & Proffit, W. R. (2012). Interactive distance learning in orthodontic residency programs: Problems and potential solutions. Journal of Dental Education, 76(3), 322–329.

    Google Scholar 

  • Komolpis, R., & Johnson, R. A. (2002). Web-based orthodontic instruction and assessment. Journal of Dental Education, 66(5), 650–658.

    Google Scholar 

  • Licari, F. W. (2007). Faculty development to support curriculum change and ensure the future vitality of dental education. Journal of Dental Education, 71(12), 1509–1512.

    Google Scholar 

  • Linjawi, A. L., Hamdan, A. M., Perryer, D. G., Walmsley, A. D., & Hill, K. B. (2009). Students’ attitudes towards an on-line orthodontic learning resource. European Journal of Dental Education, 13, 87–92.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Lowe, C. I., Wright, J. L., & Bearn, D. R. (2001). Computer-aided Learning (CAL): An effective way to teach the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN)? Journal of Orthodontics, 28, 307–311.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Ludwig, B., Bister, D., Schott, T. C., Lisson, J. A., & Hourfar, J. (2016). Assessment of two e-learning methods teaching undergraduate students cephalometry in orthodontics. European Journal of Dental Education, 20, 20–25.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Luffingham, J. K. (1984). An assessment of computer-assisted learning in orthodontics. British Journal of Orthodontics, 11(4), 205–208.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Malaysia Education Blueprint 2015-2025 (Higher Education). Retrieved 27 April 2019 from http://www.mohe.gov.my/muat-turun/awam/penerbitan/pppm-2015-2025-pt/6-executive-summary-pppm-2015-2025.

  • Marsh, C. M., Hannum, W. H., Trotman, C. A., & Proffit, W. R. (2001). Design and effectiveness of a computer-based continuing education program for orthodontists. Angle Orthodontist, 71, 71–75.

    Google Scholar 

  • McCann, A. L., Schneiderman, E. D., & Hinton, R. J. (2010). E-teaching and learning preferences of dental and dental hygiene students. Journal of Dental Education, 74(1), 65–78.

    Google Scholar 

  • Mehta, S., Clarke, F., & Fleming, P. S. (2016). An assessment of student experiences and learning based on a novel undergraduate e-learning resource. British Dental Journal, 221(3), 131–136.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Moher, D., Liberati, A., Tetzlaff, J., & Altman, D. G. (2009). The PRISMA group. Preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses: The PRISMA statement. PLoS Medicine, 6(7), e1000097.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Naser-ud-Din, S. (2015). Introducing scenario based learning interactive to postgraduates in UQ orthodontic program. European Journal of Dental Education, 19, 169–176.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Reynolds, P. A., Mason, R., & Eaton, K. A. (2008). Remember the days in the old school yard: From lectures to online learning. British Dental Journal, 204(8), 447–451.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Rosenberg, H. (2008). An evaluation of computer-aided learning in orthodontics, master’s thesis. Toronto: Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto.

    Google Scholar 

  • Rosenberg, H., Sander, M., & Posluns, J. (2005). The effectiveness of computer-aided learning in teaching orthodontics: A review of the literature. American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, 127(5), 599–605.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Rosenberg, H., Posluns, J., Tenenbaum, H. C., Tompson, B., & Locker, D. (2010). Evaluation of computer-aided learning in orthodontics. American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, 138(4), 410–419.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Ruiz, J. G., Mintzer, M. J., & Leipzig, R. M. (2006). The impact of e-learning in medical education. Academic Medicine, 81, 207–212.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Schardt, C., Adams, M. B., Owens, T., Keitz, S., & Fontelo, P. (2007). Utilization of the PICO framework to improve searching PubMed for clinical questions. BMC Medical Informatics and Decision Making, 7, 16.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Schönwetter, D. J. (2016). Assessing the impact of voice-over screen captured presentations delivered online on dental students’ learning. Journal of Dental Education, 80(2), 141–148.

    Google Scholar 

  • Schönwetter, D. J., Reynolds, P. A., & Eaton, K. A. (2010). Online learning in dentistry: An overview of the future direction for dental education. Journal of Oral Rehabilitation, 37(12), 927–940.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • Schorn-Borgmann, S., Lippold, C., Wiechmann, D., & Stamm, T. (2015). The effect of e-learning on the quality of orthodontic appliances. Advances in Medical Education and Practice, 6, 545–552.

    Google Scholar 

  • Spector, J. M. (2014). Conceptualizing the emerging field of smart learning environments. Smart Learning Environments, 1(2), 1–10.

  • Spiro, R. J., Feltovich, P. J., Jacobson, M. J., & Coulson, R. L. (1991). Knowledge representation, content specification, and the development of skill in situation-specific knowledge assembly. Educational Technology, 31, 22–25.

    Google Scholar 

  • The University of Sydney School of Dentistry Overarching Strategic Goals and Objectives 2018-22. Retrieved 27 April 2019 from https://sydney.edu.au/content/dam/corporate/documents/faculty-of-medicine-and-health/dentistry/sydney-dental-school-strategic-plan.pdf.

  • Turner, P. J., & Weerakone, S. (1992). Computer-based learning in orthodontics - a hypertext system. British Journal of Orthodontics, 173, 317–319.

    Google Scholar 

  • Turner, P. J., & Weerakone, S. (1993). An evaluation of a hypertext system for computer-assisted learning in orthodontics. British Journal of Orthodontics, 20, 145–148.

    Article  Google Scholar 

  • UK College of Dentistry Strategic Plan 2016-2020. Retrieved 27 April 2019 from https://dentistry.uky.edu/sites/default/files/UKCDStrategicPlan2016.pdf.

  • Ulkur, F., Germec-Cakan, D., & Ozdemir, F. (2015). Comparison of outcomes of recorded lecture and hands-on course education in orthodontic cast analysis. Turkish Journal of Orthodontics, 28(1), 13–18.

  • University of Florida College of Dentistry, Strategic Plan 2019-2024. Retrieved 27 April 2019 fromhttps://cod-strategic-plan.sites.medinfo.ufl.edu/files/2018/07/18-UFCD-Strategic-Plan-FINAL.pdf.

  • University of Iowa College of Dentistry Strategic Plan 2015-2020. Retrieved 27 April 2019 from https://www.dentistry.uiowa.edu/sites/default/files/docs/admin/COD_Strategic_Plan_2015-20.pdf.

  • University of Louisville School of Dentistry (ULSD), Strategic Plan, 2017-2020. Retrieved 27 April 2019 from http://louisville.edu/dentistry/about/strategic-plan-2017-2020.

  • University of Toronto, Achieving Impact through Excellence, Strategic Plan, 2014-2019. Retrieved 27 April 2019 from https://www.dentistry.utoronto.ca/sites/default/files/2016-06/strategic_plan_2014-2019.pdf.

  • Uskov, V., Bakken, J. P., Heinemann, C., Rachakonda, R., Guduru, V. S., Thomas, A. B., & Bodduluri, D. P. (2017). Building smart learning analytics system for Smart University. London: Springer International Publishing.

    Google Scholar 

  • Waxman, H. C., Fen, L. M., & Michko, G. M. (2003). A meta-analysis of the effectiveness of teaching and learning with technology on student outcomes. Chicago: Learning Point Associates, sponsored under government contract number ED-01-CO-0011.

    Google Scholar 

  • Welbury, R. R., Hobson, R. S., Stephenson, J. J., & Jepson, N. J. (2001). Evaluation of a computer-assisted learning programme on the orofacial signs of child physical abuse (non-accidental injury) by general dental practitioners. British Dental Journal, 190(12), 668–670.

    Google Scholar 

  • Williams, M. D. (1996). Learner-control and instructional technologies. In D. H. Jonassen (Ed.), Handbook of research for educational communications and technology (pp. 957–982). London: Macmillan.

    Google Scholar 

Download references

Acknowledgements

The authors of this study did not receive an aid or advice from other persons.

Funding

The study was supported by Bridging Grant from Universiti Sains Malaysia. Project no: 304.CIPPT.6316053.

Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Craniofacial and Biomaterial Science Cluster, Advanced Medical and Dental Institute, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 13200, Penang, Malaysia

    Gururajaprasad Kaggal Lakshmana Rao & Norehan Mokhtar

  2. Graduate School of Business, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800, Penang, Malaysia

    Yulita Hanum P. Iskandar

Authors
  1. Gururajaprasad Kaggal Lakshmana Rao
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  2. Yulita Hanum P. Iskandar
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

  3. Norehan Mokhtar
    View author publications

    You can also search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar

Contributions

(I) Conception and design: All authors; (II) Administrative support: Mokhtar N; (III) Provision of study material: All authors; (IV) Collection and assembly of data: Authors 1 and 2; (V) Data analysis and interpretation: Authors 1; (VI) Manuscript writing: All authors; (VII) Final approval of manuscript: All authors.

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Norehan Mokhtar.

Ethics declarations

Competing interests

The authors declare that they have no competing interests of any kind.

Ethics approval

This manuscript is a review article and hence no ethical approval was required. This manuscript does not contain any research findings done on humans or animals.

Additional information

Publisher’s note

Springer Nature remains neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations.

Rights and permissions

Reprints and permissions

About this article

Check for updates. Verify currency and authenticity via CrossMark

Cite this article

Rao, G.K.L., Iskandar, Y.H.P. & Mokhtar, N. Understanding the nuances of E-learning in orthodontic education. Educ Inf Technol 25, 307–328 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10639-019-09976-2

Download citation

  • Received:

  • Accepted:

  • Published:

  • Issue Date:

  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10639-019-09976-2

Keywords

Search

Navigation