Technologies and techniques: Making sense of endodontic procedures

In endodontics, the use of surgical microscopes has not just simplified certain procedures, but also fundamentally changed the way that root canal treatments are done and understood. Moreover, by having video cameras built into the microscopes, students are now able to follow the procedures in new ways. The aim of the project is to explore how the introduction of surgical microscopes changes the premises for instruction as well as expert performance. For this purpose, two series of seminars where students follow live broadcasts of dental procedures have been video recorded. In relation to this, an instructional model for the seminars has been developed and refined in an iterative process. Questionnaires and focus group interviews indicate that the seminars offer rewarding experiences and contribute to students' integration of theoretical knowledge and technical skills. This, however, is not just a consequence of the technology. As is demonstrated by analyses of the video recorded interaction, the dentists must engage in extensive instructional work in order for the students to see and understand what is being exhibited.

This project is a collaboration with participants from the Department of Endotology and Department of Education, Communication and Learning.