Application of dimensions of learning organization questionnaire in a dental institution in national capital region of India: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Introduction: The research knowledge translation along with evidence-based learning in health systems has increased during the last decade, particularly because of the recognition of its importance for achieving many of the Millennium Development Goals. Till now, no studies have highlighted the learning atmosphere in dental learning institutions. Aim: To assess learning culture in a dental institution in National Capital Region of India applying the dimensions of the learning organization questionnaire (DLOQ). Materials and Methods: DLOQ pro forma was distributed among 236 employees at all levels of the dental institution. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 19.0; Chicago; IL, USA and was subjected to quantitative analysis and nonparametric tests. Results: The dimension “embedded system” scored the lowest mean of 2.36, while the dimension “systems connection” scored the highest mean of 4.02 in general. A significant difference (P ≤ 0.05) between the means of the different professions was noted, whereas on comparison of the relation between each of the professions were performed and a significant difference (P ≤ 0.05) with respect to all the seven dimensions was also noted. Conclusion: The results provided sufficient inputs about the multidimensional learning organization capacity of a dental school in a rapidly developing country like India. This tool can be used as a reliable assessment technique in a dental learning setting to inculcate a wave of individual and organizational learning.