Employer perceptions of the competence of dental graduates from The University of Hong Kong's integrated problem-based learning dental curriculum

Abstract

Objectives. To evaluate employer perceptions of the competence of dentists who graduated from The University of Hong Kong’s integrated problem-based learning dental curriculum (2003-2009). Methods. A postal questionnaire was sent to graduates’ employers at the Hong Kong government dental clinics, the Faculty of Dentistry of The University of Hong Kong, and to large dental practices in Hong Kong. The questionnaire consisted of a battery of nine domains encompassing graduate competencies. Results. The overall response rate was 63% (25/40). The three domains with largest proportion of respondents indicating perceived competence were general patient management (84%), periodontal treatment (80%), and restorative treatment (76%). None of the respondents perceived that the graduates were competent in providing orthodontic treatment. Significantly more respondents from the government dental clinics than private group practices perceived the graduates to be competent in practice management (P<0.005). Conclusion. The respondents perceived that graduates from the University’s integrated problem-based learning curriculum were competent in most fundamental aspects of dental practice, except orthodontic and oral surgical treatments. This study also highlights the need for regular supervisor feedback so as to improve undergraduate dental education in the future.