KOMBINEERITUD ÕPPE EFEKTIIVSUS HAMBAARSTIÜLIÕPILASTE ÕPPETÖÖS

The Effectiveness of Blended Learning Among Dental Students

Abstract

The students of the current generation differ from previous generations by their academic skills and approach to learning; they expect more personalized teaching, support and help from both fellow students as well as from the lecturers. They set their own goals, expect flexible schedules and deadlines, and are using digital technology and IT solutions to help them with that. The aim of this study was to assess the suitability of blended learning (face-to-face learning combined with web-based assignments and independent work) in dentistry. Various online surveys and a thematic analysis of the answers were used to gather information. As expected, most of the students found the form of study suitable, though not all. The main sources of discontent were group assignments (different sizes of groups, passive group members), study material standards (at times too basic or previously learned) and the use of new methods (pre- and posttests). The main benefits were clear organization and variety of the coursework. The students also valued the discussions that emerged during lectures and group assignments, the environment supporting discussion and debate, the flexibility of the deadlines for individual work and reminders sent by the lecturers. Blended learning suits the new, digital-native generation of students – e-learning allows for variety and effectiveness in tasks and assignments, the use of different study methods and catering for students with a variety of learning styles.