Trends in Neurobiology and Neuroanatomy – Survey Results from North American Dental Course Directors

Abstract

The Neurobiology and Neuroanatomy component of The Basic Science Survey Series for Dentistry was conducted to assess how undergraduate dental students are taught neuroscience topics via a Web‐based survey completed by course directors. The purpose of this project was to help dental faculties with curricular planning by establishing what neurobiology and/or neuroanatomy topics are taught, assess the level of faculty involvement in such teaching, and identify other key pedagogical considerations in the dental basic sciences. The response to the survey was impressive from the 67 North American dental programs – 66/67 responding (a 98.5% response rate). The results of the survey indicate amongst other things, that: 1) the use of computer‐assisted instruction has increased; 2) emphasis on clinical topics has increased; 3) reliance on medical school faculty and facilities remains high; 4) a pattern of increased use of integrated curricula among dental schools has emerged; 5) a trend for a decrease in student contact hours is ongoing; and 6) neuroscience educators are aging. These data will provide the framework by which course directors and administrators, in need of curricular information, can make more informed decisions regarding the appropriateness of content, provide guidance in evaluation of their program and help with strategic planning for future endeavors.