New Technology in Dental Hygiene: Facilitating Faculty Acceptance and Adaptation

Abstract

Purpose. To detail the steps and obstacles encountered by one dental hygiene program at a 4-year, private, multi-disciplinary institution when transitioning to digital imaging and paperless record keeping. The lessons from this experience can be helpful to other programs contemplating the addition of similar technology.

Method. To determine problems and successes through experiential analysis in the 4 months since first implementing program changes. Dentrix Enterprise software, digital imaging sensors, digital pan, and computers were installed in July; training full-time faculty started August 11 and was to be completed by the start of the semester, August 26, 2006.

Problems. From the start several obstacles were encountered by faculty: resistance to change, anxiety and confusion, lack of familiarity with computer technology, individual learning curves, and diverse interests impeded progress. Faculty training was not completed by the deadline. Training everyone at one time was ineffective. Insufficient lead time was planned for training. As the semester commenced, no one individual had the overall picture of the software program. Uncertainty among faculty led to student error and disorganization as to appropriate record content, and random location of data made retrieval and reference of data by subsequent users difficult. After the first week, the paper record reemerged due to fear of inadequate documentation. This duplicated record entries and extended appointment times.

Solutions. Phase in changes gradually. Small groups and shorter training sessions are more productive. Assign 1 or 2 faculty as “Super Users” with decision-making authority. Allow adequate time for training, assimilation, and reflection. New goals for the program must be established and agreed upon by all participants. Align all revisions in curriculum with program goals. It is essential that the parent institution and its Information Technology Department commit funds and operational support on an on-going basis to the program.

Results. It is hoped that the preceding strategies will facilitate decision making, streamline instruction to faculty and students, and optimize progress toward paperless record keeping.