Feedback in Orthodontics Residency Training: The Nigerian Experience
Sylvia S. Etim *
Department of Child Dental Health, Faculty of Dentistry, College of Health Sciences, University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.
Abiodun O. Arigbede
Department of Restorative Dentistry, Faculty of Dentistry, College of Health Sciences, University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Background: Feedback is an integral aspect of medical education necessary to promote better performance and improve self-regulation in learning. It is a two-way process of communication between an observer and the observed. Presently in Nigeria, there is insufficient information regarding feedback practices in dental residency training.
Objective: To assess the perception of Nigerian dental residents, on the practice of feedback in their training generally; and particularly in Orthodontics.
Materials and Methods: A survey was carried out among dental residents with clinical experience in orthodontics with a view to assessing their perception of feedback practices in the training. The study instrument was a 24- item structured self- administered questionnaire presented in google form. Data collected were subjected to descriptive statistical analysis.
Results: Ninety-nine participants with a mean age of 33.5+ 8 were involved in the study, Forty-seven (47.5%) admitted to have heard of feedback concept. Out of 23 (23.2%) that received feedback in orthodontics, 15(65.2%) received it sometimes only. Forty-four participants (44.44%) had offensive feedback. Over half 14(60.9%) of participants that received feedback in orthodontics said the feedback they received met their learning needs. Verbal feedback and one-on-one feedback were preferred by 56(57%) and 51(52%) respondents respectively. Majority considered peer feedback as important and most of the respondents recommended the integration of regular period of individualized, interactive, and constructive feedback into their training.
Conclusion: Generally, the practice of feedback in dental specialty training in Nigeria is unsatisfactory. Less than a quarter of participants received feedback in orthodontics and verbal and one-on-one feedback protocols were preferred.
Keywords: Nigerian residents, orthodontics, feedback, dental education