Sim, Galvin Siang Lin and Yook, Shiang Ng and Hashim, Hasnah and Chan, Choong Foong and Yahya, Noor Azlin and Muhamad Halil, Mohd Haikal and Ahmad, Mas Suryalis (2024) Shaping tomorrow’s dentists: a multi-institutional survey of undergraduate dental students’ perceptions towards interprofessional education. BMC Oral Health, 24. pp. 1-11. E-ISSN 1472-6831
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Abstract
Background Interprofessional education (IPE) is essential to foster collaboration among healthcare professionals for holistic patient care. However, Malaysian dental education remains discipline-centric, hindering multidisciplinary learning approaches. Hence, this study aimed to explore Malaysian undergraduate dental students’ perceptions of IPE. Methods The present cross-sectional study employed convenience sampling to survey undergraduate dental students from four Malaysian institutions using a modified questionnaire with 20 close-ended and 2 open-ended questions. The questionnaire covered three domains (effectiveness, preference, importance) to assess students’ perceptions using a five-point Likert scale. Psychometric validation was performed to assure validity and reliability of the modified questionnaire. Quantitative analysis (descriptive and inferential statistics), and qualitative analysis (content analysis) were subsequently performed. Results 397 students responded, and positive perceptions were generally noted with mean scores ranging from 4.13 to 4.35 across all domains. Questions 2 and 3, assessing the improvement in understanding the roles and responsibilities, and communication among healthcare professionals, received the highest mean scores. Meanwhile, Question 15 concerning the incorporation of IPE into educational goals received the lowest mean score. Regression analysis identified gender and clinical phase as significant factors, with females and preclinical students exhibiting more favourable perceptions. Motivators for IPE included a keen interest in diverse perspectives and recognising the importance of teamwork, while barriers encompassed tightly packed schedules, lack of understanding about IPE, misconceptions regarding dental education, and students’ nervousness and fear of participation. Conclusion This study produced a valid and reliable instrument to measure undergraduate dental students’ perceptions towards IPE. Strategic planning, such as overcoming logistical challenges, improving awareness, and creating a supportive learning environment are crucial for successful IPE integration into existing curricula, especially in resource-constrained developing countries like Malaysia.
| Item Type: | Article (Journal) |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | Collaborative learning, Dentistry, Health profession, Interprofessional education, Undergraduate |
| Subjects: | R Medicine > RK Dentistry |
| Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button): | Kulliyyah of Dentistry Kulliyyah of Dentistry > Department of Restorative Dentistry |
| Depositing User: | Dr Mohd Haikal Muhammad Halil |
| Date Deposited: | 09 Jul 2024 09:54 |
| Last Modified: | 17 Jul 2024 09:37 |
| URI: | http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/113017 |
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