Assessment of study habits and perceptions of dental interns of Batterjee Medical College preparing for the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS) Saudi Dental Licensing Exam (SDLE)

Abstract

Objective: To assess study habits and perceptions of dental interns of Batterjee Medical College (BMC) preparing for and taking the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties’ (SCFHS) Dental Licensing Exam (SDLE). Participants and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a self-formulated web-based electronic survey for interns of the dental program at BMC batch of 2016/2017. Results: The response rate was 43.6%, (60%) indicated their goal to sit for the SLDE was both to apply for a Saudi board residency or any other postgraduate programs and to get a practice license. There was discrepancy between the targeted scores the interns aimed to achieve and the actual grades they scored in their first attempt of the SDLE, (59.1%) were dissatisfied with their scores. Released exam questions found on the internet was the primary source of study for most of the interns (68.8%), they found it to be useful and they also recommend it as a study source (73.3%). Interns studied the operative dentistry and endodontics sections the most, scored them the highest, and recognized them as the easiest during the exam. On contrary, oral and maxillofacial surgery was deemed the less prepared for section and hardest in the exam. Finally, half of the respondents reported they definitely plan on re-taking the SDLE. Conclusion: The SDLE is an integral step in the career path of dental students and a milestone of their internship year, Preparation for this objective should be well sought. Several factors may have positive impact on exam outcome.