Effect of self-assessment in a removable prosthodontics preclinical course on skills and competence.

PURPOSE: Self-assessment is increasingly implemented in medical professions' curricula. In this research, the authors measure the effects of self-assessment within a preclinical removable prosthodontics course among dental students in a private dental school according to the European qualifications framework descriptors. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty subjects, all fourth-year dental students, were included in this experiment. Fifteen subjects were included in each of the experimental and control groups during one semester. The experimental group subjects used the study roadmap tool in their preclinical tasks. The control group subjects executed the same preclinical tasks under instructor supervision only. All subjects were filmed, and an autonomy score was given to every subject per session. At the end of the semester, cognitive skills development was compared using the Kember et al. questionnaire while practical skills development was compared using a comparison of grades. Two focus groups were undertaken with experimental group subjects. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected and statistically analyzed (p < 0.005). RESULTS: Subjects from the experimental group showed development in critical thinking, practical skills, autonomy, and taking responsibility, thus development in the competence level. CONCLUSION: Implementation of self-assessment within preclinical courses may develop skills and competence among dental students, yet more studies are needed.