Accreditation of Distance Learning in the Field of Dentistry

Abstract

This study looked at criteria important to dental accreditation consultants when evaluating programs that utilized some distance technology. Attitudinal and demographic data were collected to determine any relationships between these profiles and how a consultant would apply predetermined evaluative criteria. Descriptive statistics, internal consistency estimates of reliability, and nonparametric statistics were applied to determine associations between demographic, belief, and importance statements. There was a high level of agreement on the importance statements. There were several significant associations between the level of importance placed on some guidelines and experience in distance learning, either through professional development or actual course development. Some variability was found in what respondents believed about distance learning with significant associations between profession, academic degree, and experience in developing distance education courses.