The Application of Case-Based Learning in Endodontics

Introduction:Theoretical teaching in endodontics is based on lectures delivered by qualified professionals.Recent advancements explore options such as case based learning (CBL), that allow students to apply their knowledge to real-world clinical scenarios. Objective:To evaluate the effect of CBL on clinical problem solving in endodontics, in a cohort of dentists enrolled in an "endodontic case series" workshop.Methodology: An Endodontics Case Series Activity (ECSA) was organized at the Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi.The enrolled participants and attendees participated in a pre-activity assessment, through Google Form.The form consisted of 5 clinical scenario based multiple choice questions (MCQs), based on dental trauma, iatrogenic errors, regenerative endodontics and guided endodontics.The participants then attended the ECSA, where post-graduate trainees presented the management of complex endodontic cases, surrounding the same themes, which was followed by an interactive discussion.After the workshop, the same MCQs were re-attempted to assess any changes in managing the same five clinical scenarios after attending the ECSA.Additionally, nine questions regarding the perception of CBL were also included in the post-test questionnaire.Results: Of the 28 participants, 64.3% were post-graduate trainees of Operative Dentistry and Endodontics, whereas the remaining participants were trainees from other dental specialties (10.7%) general dentists (17.9%), undergraduate dental students (7.1%).Fifty percent of the participants reported that CBL improved the implementation of key concepts, 51% responded that CBL allowed an improved treatment planning and problem-solving skills and 68.2% reported that CBL encouraged their interest in endodontics and self-learning. Conclusion:CBL may improve the clinical problem-solving skills for students and trainees, however, large scale studies are required to further establish the true effectiveness of CBL in training and education.