Dental Education in the COVID-19 Era: Challenges, Solutions and Opportunities
Abstract
Objective:
The COVID-19 crisis has caused considerable disruption to medical education and has stimulated creative and rapid changes in the way technology is adopted and utilized for education. This change is accompanied by many challenges related to education, patient care, research, faculty development and collaboration, finances, and the psychological well-being of stakeholders.
Methods:
A review of the literature on dental education during the COVID-19 pandemic was conducted. Published articles addressing the challenges, solutions and opportunities in dental education during the COVID-19 era were assessed.
Results:
COVID-19 was a catalyst for a significant amount of change in dental education. Despite the magnitude of the challenges, this pandemic has influenced many positive solutions and opportunities in dental education.
Conclusion:
The COVID-19 pandemic forced dental educators to rethink models of curricular delivery, as it disrupted traditional delivery methods. The use of technology was adapted to ensure the continuity of education. With that, a number of challenges surfaced that were tackled creatively. Reflecting over the whole experience with COVID-19, the multiple opportunities that have been identified can improve the way we educate our students in the future.
