Dental Students’ Perceptions of Learning Space: A Focus Group Study
10.21315/aos2020.15.2.463
- Author:
Lau May Nak
1
Author Information
1. Department of Paediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Collective Name:Saritha Sivarajan; Zamros Yuzadi Mohd Yusof
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
Dental education;
focus group;
learning space;
orthodontics;
teaching and learning
- From:Archives of Orofacial Sciences
2020;15(2):175-185
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Optimal learning space enhances teaching and learning experience and may differ from one discipline
to another. This research aimed to explore the opinions on learning spaces for teaching and learning
orthodontic course among recent dental graduates. Focus group discussions (FGD) were conducted
in 2018 with two groups of recent graduates (eight participants per group) based on their orthodontic
examination results (high and low grades). They were asked to give their opinions on the learning space
provided for orthodontic lectures, tutorials, clinics, self-study and networking. Discussions during the
FGD were audio and video recorded. Data were transcribed and thematically analysed using the NVivo
version 12 software. For lectures, the graduates preferred a conventional lecture hall layout with an
individual power outlet and a desk large enough for a laptop. For tutorials, the graduates with higher
grades preferred e-tutorials while the graduates with lower grades preferred the conventional tutorials.
For clinical teaching, the graduates perceived the laboratory’s operating hours as limited and suggested
a 24-h access card. The graduates preferred live-streaming sessions instead of on-site teachings for
combined clinics. They also felt that they do not have time for self-study and networking during their
time in the campus. The findings of the study showed that learning space preferences of undergraduate
dental students for lecture, tutorial, clinic, self-study and networking were more focused towards their
learning activities, which were different from the current concept of learning space. Future planning of
learning space should consider students’ preferences in order to fulfil their learning goals.
- Full text:2.2020my199.pdf
