As Assessment of Online Learning in a Dental Hygiene Baccalaureate Degree Completion Program

Abstract

The Ohio State University’s Dental Hygiene Program recently implemented a baccalaureate degree completion program (BDCP) in a web-based online format. In 2005, The Institute for Higher Education Policy set 24 benchmarks to ensure quality of internet-based distance education. To meet these benchmarks, the BDCP is continually reviewed to ensure quality learning.

Objectives. The objective was to assess student perceptions of the quality of learning and effectiveness of the online BDCP to meet the teaching/learning and course structure benchmarks.

Methods. A 16-item, 5-point Likert scale questionnaire was administered to enrolled dental hygiene students (n =13).

Results. Seventy-seven percent of students felt as equally challenged in an online course as in a traditional classroom course, and 85% replied that the online program is more convenient than a traditional program. One hundred percent felt the courses expanded their dental hygiene knowledge while 92% stated the online curriculum contained content not previously studied. The course objectives were clear (92%) and the syllabi contained the expectations of the assignments, deadlines, and grading criteria. Participants strongly agreed that peer interaction is important and that the courses developed critical thinking skills (92%). In discussion forums, the students felt the online learning was enhanced by other students’ discussions and helped them see other viewpoints (92%). Fifty-four percent noted they are more willing to discuss topics online then in a traditional course. One hundred percent of students felt assignment feedback was constructive and provided in a timely manner.

Conclusion. Students feel the quality of learning and effectiveness of the online program is as equally challenging and satisfying as a traditional classroom learning format. This response demonstrates that the program strives to meet the benchmarks set to ensure quality internet-based education while providing advanced degrees to dental hygienists.