Introduction

One-cycle undergraduate educational program "Dentistry" of BAU International University, Batumi is based on the field benchmark of ADEE (Association of Dental Education in Europe) for “Graduating European Dentist” and it considers the context of national sector of higher dental education and the labor market. The program was designed with the experience of Queen Mary University School of dentistry in the United Kingdom and the Faculty of Dentistry at Istanbul BahçeÅŸehir University, in Turkey. The one-step dentistry curriculum complies with the ADEE's standard and sectoral characteristics developed by the abovementioned organization, while the required volume of biomedical and clinical medicine components of the program meet the National Higher Education Sector Orientation (NSBHEM) requirements. Each component of the program is designed for different levels of teaching, to develop the various competencies.

The framework of the learning outcomes of the BAU Batumi International University Education Program of Dentistry is the adaptation of the field educational standards and current competencies developed by the European Association of Dental Education in the Georgian educational space, taking into account the National Qualifications Framework of Georgia, which in the future maty become the basis for the development of national sectoral benchmark of the field of dentistry.

Improving the quality of medical services and healthcare has become a top priority for the modern world. In this regard, improving the medical educaton, including dental medicine is an important task for many countries including Georgia. Oral health affects not only the physical but also the psychosocial conditon of a person. Dentstry is a very rapidly evolving field and it responds adequately to scientfic and technological advances. This in turn leads to the introducton of new treatment methods and guidelines. A clear cut example of this is periosurgery, digital dentstry, implantaton using digital templates and many more. Awareness raising in patents has changed the aÆ«tude towards dentstry. Modern dentstry is not only one of the most important links for general health improving the quality of life, but it also has a great aesthetc value. An increase in demand for the dental services has led to the glutted market which consequently increased demand for qualified staff Iincrease in the number of dental programs and graduates and the need to teach new advances in dentstry is a challenge to the quality of modern dental higher educaton programs. BAU Internatonal University, Batumi aims at developing the field of healthcare by training compettve alumni worldwide, including in the field of dental medicine, based on the best internatonal practce which is directly in line with the University's mission

Program overview

Program Mission

The mission of the one-step dental education program is to implement innovative teaching approaches and technology-based education in the field of dentistry to prepare a competitive graduate to the international education and labor market.

Program goals and objectives

The goal of the dental education program is to prepare a highly qualified, competent dentist in accordance with the international standard of dental education, with fundamental theoretical and evidence-based scientific knowledge, innovative-technological visions of its implementation in practice and with important practical and clinical skills, who will be competitive on a national as well as international level in terms of employment or further study. The program focuses on the formation of professional and liberal values that will help graduates integrate into the world of education and healthcare community.

The objective of the program is to train an active member of the dental team with effective leadership and communicative skills in the professional field, who will understand the role of the dentist in the public health system at the regional, state and international level and based on all these, form appropriate professional values, accountability and critical self-esteem.

The key task of the program is to equip a person with a wide range of knowledge in preventive measures for oral disease and the ability to carry them out; to train an individual in all areas of dentistry with the ability to develop an appropriate treatment plan using modern etiological factors, clinical picture, differential diagnosis and guidelines and the ability to maintain the achieved results.

The program is focused on developing professional and ethical values in students, including a research component and a constant strive to grow professionally, which is a key basis for the healthcare professional.

The one-cycle educational program in Dentistry provides the implementation of the mission of the University which focuses on promoting and improving public health approaches by introducing high scientific and ethical standards of health education, offering new teaching methods, and constantly developing modern educational approaches through the training of professionals in the field

Program description

The educational program "Dentistry" provides horizontally integrated transdisciplinary modules of medical-biological components and continuing education courses in medicine, dentistry and elective (both dental and non-dental) directions. The program, is based on the logical and consistent integration of norm and pathology according to organ systems and basic and clinical subjects. The curriculum develops from simple to complex and the courses are organized on the principle of building on each other, with a system of logically assembled prerequisites.

Communication Skills 

Communication Skills are vertically integrated in the program in the first academic year through the courses of "Communication Skills and Academic Reporting 1 and 2" and "Philosophy and Ethics in Medicine 1 and 2", in which role-playing games and case studies allow the student to study the elements of both verbal and written communication with different types of patients, colleagues, family members. These elements are essential in communicating in the medical field. The same issues are deepened in the second academic year in the "Basics of Good Medical Practice", and communication and behavioral skills are further developed through an introductory course in Sociology and Psychology and a course in Behavior Science. A foreign student studies Georgian Language with 22 credits and a Georgian student studying German or Turkish with 12 credits also to deepen their communication skills, which will help them communicate with the patient during the clinical internship. Subject communication course "Communication and teamwork in the dental office" serves to develop field communication skills from the third academic year. Of course, other field teaching courses also provide a certain dose of skills to communicate with the patient and not just the patient. 

Teaching In Simulation Environment 

1129 hours in the program are devoted to simulation (teaching in a simulated environment - TSE) and teaching in a clinical environment (TCE). The program from the beginning (still in the first year modules) is focused on the development of clinical practical skills. In the simulation environment, students work on cadavers and anatomical models in the anatomical mannequin and cadaver laboratory within the 15 courses of anatomy and clinical anatomy. Mannequins and simulators are then used to build clinical skills in the "Fundamentals of Good Medical Practice" course training in a simulated format at the OSCE and Clinical Skills Center. From the fourth semester, students start working on phantoms and prostheses (in the Clinical and Professional Dental Skills Laboratory, the Dental Prosthetics Technical Laboratory, and the Dental Clinic Simulation Laboratory) and directly develop dental clinical skills. 

Clinical Teaching 

Adaptation to the clinical environment begins in the first year of study in the form of clinical visits, during which the student spends some time in the clinic to get acquainted with the clinical environment and to adapt to the medical / dental team and later, as a result of rotations in the clinic during the senior years, the student is able to understand how the skills mastered in the simulation environment can be applied to the patient in the clinic and reinforce these skills in a real-world relationship with the patient. During the clinical internship in the last year of study, which is awarded 8 credits, each student is individually given the opportunity to assist the dentist in the clinic. Clinical training is built into almost all clinical training courses and is completed through clinical practice, with a total of 511 contact hours of clinical training. Most medical as well as dental clinical training courses are conducted on a rotational basis with the duration of a minimum of one and a maximum of 6 weeks. 

Development Of Scientific-Research Skills 

A modern dentist is unthinkable without scientific-research skills. The existing program provides the development of skills needed for scientific research from the very first year of teaching through “Communication Skills and Academic Reporting", "Scientific Research Skills", "Research Methodology and Biostatistics", "Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine", "Evidence Based Dentistry" and completes and defends a research project in the final semester. The research component of the program allows students to learn and master scientific research methods, get used to the effective use of scientific sources, be able to analyze research results, and gradually improve their research skills. Students learn the evidence-based approach and critical analysis of information as well as research planning, conducting, writing, and presenting research. The research component holds 21 credits in the program. 

Biomedical component

Dental component

სასწავლო გეგმა

Clinical Teaching

Adaptation to the clinical environment begins in the first year of study in the form of clinical visits, during which the student spends some time in the clinic to get acquainted with the clinical environment and to adapt to the medical / dental team and later, as a result of rotations in the clinic during the senior years, the student is able to understand how the skills mastered in the simulation environment can be applied to the patient in the clinic and reinforce these skills in a real-world relationship with the patient. During the clinical internship in the last year of study, which is awarded 8 credits, each student is individually given the opportunity to assist the dentist in the clinic. Clinical training is built into almost all clinical training courses and is completed through clinical practice, with a total of 511 contact hours of clinical training. Most medical as well as dental clinical training courses are conducted on a rotational basis with the duration of a minimum of one and a maximum of 6 weeks.

Portfolio

The program is also focused on personal and professional development. In this regard, student activities and achievements during the study are accumulated in a portfolio that is student-centered and through constant feedback contributes to his / her professional growth and assesses the basic competencies, self-assessment and lifelong learning skills of the dentist. This format allows for student formative assessment and provides regular feedback between a teacher and a student. The portfolio includes three different areas:

1. Extracurricular activity of the student, which reflects the student's achievements; Certificates of conference, training and other activities attended; Involvement in university activities and additional clinical activity.
2. Case Presentation - Each student is required to process one actual clinical case once a semester during clinical visits or internships and present it to a mentor and commission.
3. Student Self-Assessment - Once a semester, teachers assess their students while the student conducts a self-assessment. Based on the teacher evaluation summary, the tutor provides feedback and outlines a development plan for each student. In addition, the mentor fills in information about the activity of a particular student in clinical practice.

Elective Component

In addition to the basic training courses, the program provides sectoral and non-sectoral elective courses such as "Ergonomics in Dentistry", "Dental Implantation", "Use of Information Technologies in Dentistry", "Laser Therapy and Dental Photography".

LEARNING OUTCOMES

The learning outcomes of the program are in line with the objectives of the program, the content of its mandatory learning components, the findings of national or international good practice analysis, the competencies set out in the framework of sectoral document of the European Association of Dental Education and the requirements of the National Qualifications' Framework for a graduated dentist.

The learning outcomes of the program are grouped according to 4 main domains:

Besides field related domains, general outcomes, defining cross-curricular competencies, such as abilities to manage, analyze and synthesize information, renew learning and react to changed situations are described in Domain of General Outcomes.

Professionalism

Ethics

Recognizes the health care of members of the community as one's own professional privilege - understands the ethical principles of health care and acts accordingly at all times and in all situations, taking into account the needs and the interests of the patient. Acts in accordance with ethical principles in conducting scientific research, taking into account the values of scientific objectivity, validity, impartiality and academic integrity.

Effective leadership and communication

Demonstrates leadership qualities in managing the dental team, defines the action strategy, goals and objectives, manages the resources necessary for change. He/she explains the role of all team members in providing safe and effective dental services, including adherence to the established standards and ethical principles in practice. Communicates effectively, receives and shares information with specialists or non-specialists, verbally or in writing, in Georgian and in English, following the accepted form of professional communication.

Regulation and accountability

Is familiar with the legislation in the field of health care in all aspects of dental practice (health and safety, informed patient consent, infection prevention and control procedures, data protection, use of ionizing radiation) complies with and takes into account the requirements of the regulatory system.

Critical self-assessment

Demonstrates critical self-assessment and peer assessment sharing skills and as a result understands when to seek help or advice. He/she correctly sets the limits of one's own capabilities and reveals professional responsibility for their own actions and decisions.

Safe and Effective Clinical Practice

Understanding biological processes in the body

Understands the biological processes in the body at the molecular, organic and organism levels. Determines the causes and mechanisms of changes in the structure and functions of the human body in case of various diseases based on the evidence and the latest knowledge.

Bio-medical basics of oral health

Understands the scientific foundations of biomedicine related to the oral cavity, understands the etiology and pathogenesis of various systemic diseases and describes their connection with acute and chronic conditions in the oral cavity and jaw. He/she can diagnose and manage diseases based on existing knowledge, including pharmacotherapy.

Describes normal growth of the skull and face and the development of oral tissues, taking into account age-related changes.

Adheres to the basic principles and instructions for infection control and radiation safety during clinical procedures.

Evaluates and uses the results of appropriate imaging methods to diagnose dental diseases. Adequately responds to and manages emergencies in medical and dental practice. Knows the characteristics of dental materials, the advantages and limitations of their use, including environmental issues related to their use.

Patient Centered Care

Behavior management

Is able to detect traces of violence and neglect on the patient and responds appropriately. Is aware of the impact of oral health on the overall health and quality of life, analyzes the risk factors of general and oral health and by applying behavioral sciences has effective communication with patients regarding their behavior changes with age, and taking into account their age, state and needs. Manages oral health with age, condition and special needs in mind.

Clinical information gathering and diagnosis

Properly analyzes and perceives patient complaints, genetic, social, and dental history. He/she can complete the patient's history. Carries out oral and external examination of the soft and cool tissues of the oral cavity. Uses additional diagnostic methods as needed and makes an accurate diagnosis based on the information obtained.

Treatment planning, establishing and maintaining oral health

In the treatment planning and treatment process, takes into account the age, individual and special needs, requirements and values of each patient. He/she Identifies psychosocial factors that may complicate treatment planning, medical care, and follow-up.

Knows and uses clinical-laboratory and instrumental methods of early and differential diagnosis in the field of dentistry.

Performs direct and indirect restorations, performs functional, aesthetic restoration of dentition and replacement of unsuccessfully made structures.

Evaluates the outcome of treatment, establishes a monitoring program, and maintains the outcome of the treatment received, involving other dental team and medical professionals as needed. Performs infiltrative and regional anesthesia for surgical and non-surgical procedures and manages potential complications.

Performs extraction, plans and performs dental implants. Develops strategies to maintain the patient's oral health. Performs prophylactic procedures and minimally invasive procedures to prevent diseases of the soft and cool tissues of the oral cavity and promote health.

Dentistry and Society

Understands demographic and health trends in the context of the national and global health systems - the impact of political, social and economic factors on public health; recognizes the need to promote healthcare in the community, analyzes the role of dental care in primary healthcare.

Is familiar with oral and systemic diseases, along with the associated risk factors that are recognized as public health problems.

Recognizes the importance and limitations of behavior change at the population level and analyzes the importance of professional advocacy for public health in promoting disease prevention and promoting a healthy lifestyle. Evaluates general and oral health policies in the field of health, identifies examples of best public health policies and strategies, evaluates public health measures in terms of equal access, quality and outcomes.

General Outcomes

• Has the ability of analysis and synthesis
• Has the ability to manage information
• Has the ability of problem solving, critical thinking and decision making.
• Has the ability to work independently
• Has the ability to renew learning / knowledge permanently
• Has the capacity to adapt to new situations

CATALOGUE OF TEACHING AND LEARNING METHODS

The teaching methodology used in the program integrates theoretical and practical teaching, development of practical and clinical skills in laboratory, simulation and clinical environment. The teaching methodology of each course or module corresponds to the objectives of the specific discipline and the expected learning outcomes. When selecting a methodology, the content, format and specific characteristics of the subject are also taken into account.

Interactive lectures, seminars, practical and laboratory trainings will be the main components of the learning process during the seminars. Methods of explanation, discussion, illustration, induction / deduction, problem-based teaching, synthesis and analysis will be used. At the initial stage of training, clinical skills will be developed using appropriate simulators, mannequins, and role-playing games between physician and patient. Next, skills will be refined in a clinical setting, with the student's direct involvement and contact with the patient's chair, his or her examination and treatment.

To achieve the goals of the program, the following methodology will be used:

ASSESSMENT SYSTEM

The assessment methods and components of each course are in line with the objectives of that component and are logically linked to the learning outcomes of the program. Oral and written tests are used to assess knowledge and skills. Formative as well as summative assessment are used in the program. The program components include elements of assessment, self-assessment, and peer assessment by the lecturer / mentor / tutor.

Student knowledge is assessed on a 100-point scale, which includes:

A student receives credit if he/she accumulates 51 points out of 100 points and crosses the appropriate threshold imposed by the course

Student Knowledge Assessment System

Learning Spaces

BAU Campus

Bau International University, Batumi operates in a new building with well-equipped auditoriums, computer classes, teaching and research laboratories and a library. State-of-the-art infrastructure and opportunities to collaborate with partner clinics ensure the development of clinical/practical and scientific-research skills.

There are 9 teaching and 1 research laboratories in the campus, as well as classes for teaching in a simulation environment:

- Laboratory of Microbiology and Immunology;
- Pharmacogenetics Laboratory and Real Time PCR Laboratory;
- Laboratory of Cytology and Histology and Physiology;
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology;
- Laboratory of Clinical and Professional Dental Skills;
- Technical Laboratory of Dental Prostheses;
- Dental Clinic Simulation Laboratory;
- Anatomy and PBL / CBL class;
- OSCE Center
- Anatomical Dissection Laboratory.

Dental Labs

The Clinical and Professional Dental Skills Laboratory, with a capacity of 30 students, is an opportunity for students to develop their practical skills and study professional dental procedures on phantoms before completing clinical practice. There are camera systems in the lab that can record high resolution images. In addition, the manipulations performed by the lecturers have a high quality sound. The practical desk is equipped with state-of-the-art dental equipment and automatic LCD monitor systems. During the lecture, students can simultaneously watch, listen and repeat the manipulations performed by the lecturers on their desk. There are a total of 30 phantoms in the laboratory. In accordance with pre-defined treatment plans, students have the opportunity to develop professional knowledge and skills by performing the necessary manipulations on the phantoms. In addition, students will explore ergonomic work positions to work in the correct position.

The Dental Prosthetics Technical Laboratory allows students to explore the laboratory stages of removable and fixed dentures that are made for the patient on real models. The laboratory also has technical laboratory devices equipped with the latest technology, where more than one student can comfortably work, observe and practise on printed materials, plastic, wax, metal, acrylic and ceramic materials.

Dental Clinic Simulation Laboratory allows students to learn how to communicate with a patient in a clinic before treating a patient, they can also acquire clinical skills through simulation games. This lab is an analogue of a real dental practice. In this laboratory students will learn how to sterilize, develop communication skills in relation to simulated patients. Prior to sending the student to the clinic, their competencies will be assessed through the OSCE and DOPS.

BAU University Dental Clinic

Clinical rotations and clinical practice are conducted in a university clinic equipped with 4 modern dental facilities, where it is possible to perform any dental manipulation. In addition, the university clinic has a dental x-ray that allows diagnostic x-rays to be taken on real patients, to discuss them, to plan treatment and to carry out further treatment procedures. The University Clinic adheres to modern standards of sterilization, which is carried out using the appropriate tools for packaging and sterilization autoclave. Besides, the clinic is equipped with appropriate tools and materials in all areas of dentistry.

Clinical practice is also conducted in dental clinics affiliated with the University