Implementation of pedagogical strategies for community-engaged learning: experience in pediatric dentistry

Abstract

Introduction: University outreach and community engagement are essential pillars at our university. Their integration with the teaching-learning process fosters the development of skills that enable students to creatively address discipline-specific challenges, preparing them as future professionals and citizens. Outreach provides students with internal and social relevance, contributing to their professional training, and should be strengthened through academic, administrative, logistical, and curricular support.
Objective: To promote and generate teaching and outreach experiences for students of the Pediatric Dentistry specialization program in a clinic located in a rural community.
Methodology: Students participated in a pilot program that included oral health examinations, topical fluoride application, atraumatic restorative treatment (ART), and intersectoral work with educators to jointly implement oral health promotion through educational sessions. This intervention was evaluated through student opinion surveys and feedback from key stakeholders in the school community and faculty. Clinical competencies were assessed formatively with on-site faculty feedback.
Results: The activity was well evaluated by students, who developed clinical competencies in a social context different from that of the university clinic. Faculty members incorporated active teaching methodologies based on situated and service learning.
Conclusion: The link between teaching and outreach was incorporated into the curriculum of the course “Education, prevention, and maintenance of oral health” and has had positive effects on students and faculty, by providing opportunities for oral health care and education in school settings.