Saudi Journal for Health Sciences (Jan 2022)
Dental interns' perceptions of their training experiences at different training centers
Abstract
Background: Investigating dental interns' perceptions of their learning experience is important for properly understanding potential difficulties and obstacles in training. Aims: The aim of this study was to explore dental interns' perceptions on their learning environment and supervision. Settings and Design: This survey was in a form of a questionnaire that includes 20 items and was divided into three main parts: The first part of the questionnaire evaluated the intern's perception toward the learning outcomes obtained from the field experience. The second part of the study assessed the interns' perceptions toward their supervisors. The third part of the questionnaire investigated the interns' perceptions toward training centers facilities. Methods: This questionnaire was presented in a Likert-type format. Respondents stated their agreement or disagreement with each item on a four-point scale; strongly agree (4), agree (3), disagree (2), and strongly disagree (1). Statistical Analysis Used: Descriptive analysis was conducted to illustrate the sample characteristics using Chi-square Test. The Mann–Whitney U-test was used test the differences between male and female interns. Results: A total number of 234 questionnaires were filled and submitted by interns in which 134 from male interns (57.3%) and 100 from female interns (42.7%). In general, the interns from both genders appeared very satisfied with their training experience. With all the questionnaire 20 items, more than 75% of the obtained answers were either agree or strongly agree with similarly obtained from both male and female interns. Conclusions: High level of satisfaction can be obtained when the field experience outcomes are clearly explained. In addition, the availability of supervisors with full awareness of learning outcomes will improve the learning experience of dental interns.
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