Proposal #00-07

"A Comparison of Slide/Audio Tape and Web-Based Instructional Formats for Teaching Normal Intraoral Radiographic Anatomy"

Recent technological advances have supported the need for computer-assisted instructional methods of teaching. The purpose of this modified crossover study is to compare the preference and performance of dental hygiene students when learning normal radiographic intra-oral anatomy. In addition, the relationship between learning styles, performance and attitudes toward computerassisted instruction and traditional slide/tape instruction will be evaluated. Participants in this study will consist of 33 junior dental hygiene students enrolled in an accredited baccalaureate program at The University of North Carolina School of Dentistry. Inclusion criterion involves current enrollment in a pre-clinical radiology course. The Kolb learning style instrument will be administered to identify the student's preferred learning style. A pre test will be administered, and then the students will be randomly assigned to one of two groups stratified by gender, age, English, as a second language and prior dental experience. They will view one arch with one modality and the other arch with the other modality. A post-test will be self-administered following the completion of each module. An analysis of variance will be used to determine if there is a statistically significant difference in scores. After completing the modalities, the students will be asked to complete an attitudinal questionnaire to determine their preference and overall experience utilizing the two modalities. A stepwise multiple regression analysis will evaluate the questionnaire results. The results of this study may indicate that an individual's learning style should be considered when determining the ideal methodology for teaching them. The future implications of this research will be to assist educators in determining if computer-assisted instructional modules are comparable to the traditional slide tape instructional modules.