Residential training program for new undergraduates at a faculty of dentistry： approach and evaluation

Abstract

At Kyushu Dental University（ KDU）, we provide an academic curriculum for the training of dental care professionals based on knowledge dissemination, skills acquisition, and attitude development. As undergraduates begin life at university, they naturally need some guidance on formal greetings and manners, but attitude development and the building of good interpersonal relations should also be addressed at this early stage. Since 2009, we have provided a residential training program for new undergraduates at KDU. For this program, we have designed sessions to promote friendly relations and social interaction among the undergraduates, improve their communication skills, and prepare them for a career in dentistry. Participants completed a survey questionnaire on the residential training program. The survey results show that the participants valued the opportunity to consider what a career in dental health involves and found the program useful for building friendships and interacting with peers. The program was evaluated highly, with participants finding the planned activities very enjoyable and rewarding.