Application of a multimedia-supported manikin system for preclinical dental training

Abstract

AimIn this study, we aimed to describe a multimedia-supported manikin system, compare the new manikin with the traditional manikin and evaluate its effectiveness in preclinical dentistry training.MethodsA total of 150 students participated in this study. Amongst these students, 71 in the 2015-year group used traditional manikins (Group TM) for preclinical training courses (endodontics training courses and prosthodontics training courses), and 79 in the 2016-year group used manikins with a multimedia system (Group MM). The scores of the training courses between the two groups were compared. A questionnaire survey was used to collect opinions of the students in Group MM on their experience of using the multimedia-supported manikin system in the preclinical training.ResultsIn the endodontics training courses, the scores of Group MM were higher than those of Group TM, but there was no significant difference (P = 0.379 > .05). However, the scores of prosthodontics training courses in Group MM were significantly higher than those in Group TM (P = 0.018 < .05). The questionnaire results indicated that the students in Group MM were satisfied with the device in usability, clarity, effectiveness and improvement in operation proficiency.ConclusionsIn the groups studied, for preclinical dental training, the multimedia-supported manikin system was a good alternative to traditional manikin in preclinical dentistry training.