How Are Trainee Dentists Able to Autonomously Engage in Clinical Practice?

Abstract

Introduction: This study aims to explore the processes by which trainee dentists are able to autonomously engage in clinical practice.Methods: Semi-structured interviews with 16 trainee dentists were conducted. For the data analysis, Modified Grounded Theory Approach was employed in this study.Results: At the early stage of clinical education, trainees tended to passively receive and follow the supervisor's instruction. However, through their reiterative reflection on clinical experience and feedback from their supervisor, they gradually established a proper way of treating and caring for patients. They also understood their own abilities. Furthermore, they could obtain a holistic viewpoint of dental treatment. Their experiences led to active engagement with dental practice.Discussion: In order for the learners to be autonomously involved in their practice, educators need to provide scaffolding and support that encourage them to solve individual problems in the given context.