Evaluating study approach of dental students in palestine using a study process questionnaire: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Learning approach strategies are an important factor to obtain knowledge in any professional course. Surface approach learning and deep approach learning are two main types of learning strategies. Aim: The aim of present study was to evaluate the study approach strategies of dental students in Palestine. Materials and Methods: The present study follows a cross-sectional study design, which includes 250 students from first year to fifth year at Al Quds University. The present study evaluated the study approach using a questionnaire called R-SPQ-2F that was filled by all the students using Google forms. The assessment scores from the curriculum assessment examination were also compared with the scores of the R-SPQ-2F questionnaire. SPSS software was used to analyze data. Results: The results of the ANOVA show that the students in the fifth years had significantly higher mean scores of deep learning approaches than other years (P < 0.001). The students having curriculum assessment scores above 80% showed significantly more deep learning strategies than surface learning strategies (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Deep learning approach can provide better academic outcome. Newer teaching strategies that enhance the deep learning approach should be encouraged in the dental curriculum.

Keywords

• dental students
• questionnaire
• study approach