Shelley Brown

Dental hygiene education has traditionally relied on lectures, demonstrations, and clinical requirements to prepare students for practice. While foundational knowledge remains essential, educators are increasingly recognizing the importance of active learning strategies that help students apply information in realistic situations. One teaching method that continues to gain support in healthcare education is role play. Role play allows students to practice communication, critical thinking, and...

Artificial intelligence is quickly becoming one of the most debated tools in education. Some educators worry that tools like ChatGPT could weaken students’ ability to think critically. Others see it as a powerful learning aid when used intentionally. A recent article from the New York Post reported on a national faculty survey that found 95% of college professors believe AI will cause students to become overly reliant on technology for learning. The same survey also found that 90% of faculty...

Strong faculty student connection improves engagement, skill acquisition, and professional identity formation. In dental and dental hygiene programs, where students are developing both cognitive knowledge and clinical competence, connection directly impacts confidence and performance in patient care. Here are three concise, research supported strategies you can implement immediately. 1. Use Instructor Immediacy in Both Lecture and Clinic Instructor immediacy refers to behaviors that reduce...