RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Service-Learning and Dental Hygiene: A Literature Review
JF American Dental Hygienists Association
JO J Dent Hyg
FD American Dental Hygienists Association
SP 64
OP 64
VO 81
IS 3
A1 CJ Lautar
A1 FY Miller
YR 2007
UL http://jdh.adha.org/content/81/3/64.abstract
AB Dental hygienists should be aware of the concept of service-learning and how it can enhance dental hygiene education. A look at national documents and other relevant historical literature will be reviewed, in addition to more recent books and articles to define service-learning. Although perceived as a new teaching strategy, service-learning has its roots in experiential education. Several definitions of service-learning have emerged, which take into consideration the reciprocal needs of the student and community, bridging academic theory with community service, and instilling civic responsibility through a reflective component. Considering the advantages and disadvantages, service-learning seems to be a good methodology for dental hygiene education. Recommendations include the expansion of the ADA Accreditation Standards to include service-learning, and incorporation of an operational definition of community-based oral health programs, as well as the term service-learning in its Definition of Terms.