Dental students at one school were placed in two groups and surveyed about their attitudes toward the testing program and themselves as operative dentists. The students in the experimental group participated in a self-assessment with computer-generated feedback. Results of both groups are compared. (Author/MLW)

Two issues related to dental health policy are examined: the contribution of dental education to the process by which dental health policy is established, and the nature of dental education's response to established policies. (MLW)

Guidelines developed for educational institutions by the American Association of Dental Schools (AADS) as curriculum development aids are presented. The need for the dentist to be properly trained in the physical evaluation of patients is emphasized. (MLW)

This purpose of this hearing was to discuss the latest scientific research regarding the use of mercury in medicine in the United States and the possible connection between these products and autism spectrum disorders. The subcommittee also discusses the need for further research to determine the biological basis of autism and how the Federal…

A study confirmed the dual hypotheses that the more empathic behavior a dental student showed, the greater the cooperation of children patients, and the more often the patients' verbal behavior is dentist-directed rather than self-directed. It is suggested that training in more socially sensitive behavior would enhance patient care. (MSE)

The effectiveness of practical examinations in assessing the clinical competence of dental students is discussed. A grading system that derives a significant portion of the senior student's grade from this type of examination is described. The impact of practical clinical examinations on two consecutive graduating classes was analyzed. (Author/MLW)

Until the eighteenth century, doctors were reluctant to use chemicals to alleviate pain because they accepted the religious/moral beliefs of their day, claiming that pain was beneficial for the body. Traces technical developments in the control of pain, discussing relationships of anesthesia to social, cultural, and scientific factors and…

An analysis of underlying factors in dental school grades focuses on basic science, dental science, and manual skills. Dental science factors are least clearly defined and are developed during professional training. Basic science and manual skills show a more complex involvement and may account for some difficulties in prediction studies.…

Arguments for and against extension of dental education to a mandatory five years because of current overcrowding of dental curriculum are presented in debate form. Affirmative arguments center on the inefficacy of restructuring existing curricula, and arguments against focus on current curricular inefficiency, costs, and other practical…

A survey of all dental schools to gather information on curriculum length indicates that the majority plan to continue four-year programs, including early and late graduation options. Most do not plan to require a mandatory general practice residency program as a means of lengthening the curriculum. (MLW)

The possible bias resulting from excluding nonresponders in tabulating data from mail survey questionnaires in a dentist population was investigated. The differences between the responders and the nonresponders were analyzed with respect to the dentists' demographic data, attitudes, and knowledge. Nonresponse bias did not affect the results of…

Oral radiology curricular guidelines developed by the American Association of Dental Schools are provided. The guidelines describe minimal conditions under which a satisfactory educational experience can be offered. Principles of x-radiation, radiobiological concepts, radiological health, radiographic technique, radiographic quality, and darkroom…

A teaching technique for evaluating student technical exercises is described. The technique enables the faculty to describe the student's performance, as well as to score it. A student survey revealed that the majority of students could accurately interpret the information contained on the form. (Author/MLW)

A minicourse concerning patient management skills at the University of Washington School of Dentistry is described. A method to evaluate students' application of the social learning theory presented in the minicourse is reported. Students were trained in 12 specific skills, and then observed during rgular appointments. (MLW)