Radiographic interpretation of changes in the tooth and adjacent bone tissue using the tools of the Moodle virtual environment

Abstract

Virtual learning environments (VLEs) have numerous possibilities for the use of their tools and can assist in the processes of teaching and learning about the radiographic image interpretation. This study aimed to evaluate the use of a virtual learning environment as a support material for students in the discipline of Dental Radiology. This radiographic interpretation was conducted to contribute to the knowledge and training of the changes in the tooth and adjacent bone tissue, visualized in periapical and interproximal radiographs. The scores of the virtual test (via the Moodle platform) and the interpretation test (in the classroom) were used to compare Group Number 1 (students that performed the virtual test before the classroom test) and Group Number 2 (students that performed the virtual test after the classroom test). It was observed that, in general, the mean score of the interpretation test was higher than the virtual. Also, 66% of the students used the platform as the main resource to follow the discipline, due to the possibility of reviewing the contents and activities. The virtual learning environment can be considered an important complementary source for teaching radiographic interpretation. The Moodle platform acts as a remarkable tool, with the potential capacity to support the teaching and learning process. For this, mutual collaboration among students, University, and educational institution is necessarily required for the constant use, maintenance, and updating of the virtual environment.