Effect analysis of a virtual simulation experimental platform in teaching pulpotomy

Abstract

Background The experimental teaching of pediatric dentistry is a bridge between theoretical study and clinical practice, and virtual simulation technology provides a new method of instruction. Methods We built an experimental teaching platform using virtual simulation technology for vital pulpotomy that includes learning and examination modes. A total of 199 students majoring in stomatology in the fourth year at Sun Yat-Sen University were randomly divided into a control group (conventional teaching mode) and an experimental group (virtual simulation experimental teaching model). The teaching effect was evaluated by theoretical and experimental examination. Results We found that both the theoretical and experimental scores of the experimental group were higher than those of the control group, and the theoretical scores of the experimental group after exposure to the virtual simulation experimental teaching platform were also higher than those before the class, with significant differences (P < 0.05). Feedback from the experimental group after the class indicated that the platform reinforced their theoretical knowledge and greatly improved their mastery of operational skills. Conclusions The application of a virtual simulation experimental teaching platform can effectively improve the teaching of pulpotomy.

A Review of the Ethical Use of Animals in Functional Experimental Research in China Based on the “Four R” Principles of Reduction, Replacement, Refinement, and Responsibility

“…By replacing part of classroom teaching with virtual simulation experiment teaching, the number of experimental animals can be reduced. By combining virtual simulation experiment teaching with classroom teaching, the effectiveness of experimental teaching can be improved [13][14][15]. Lo et al stated that "despite the appetite for virtual and augmented reality models, empirical evidence supporting current technologies is limited" [3].…”

The status of virtual simulation experiments in medical education in China: based on the national virtual simulation experiment teaching Center (iLAB-X)

“…The virtual simulation-based educational approach is an emerging interactive pedagogical strategy using computer-generated virtual simulation technology that immerses learners in a setting with real-world sensory perceptions and allows a series of practices and feedback in this digital world [ 1 ]. The utilization of virtual simulation in experimental teaching has become increasingly prevalent and is considered a significant reform in higher education [ 2 , 3 ], which emerges from the integration of cutting-edge virtual simulation technology and a paradigm shift towards student-centered learning [ 4 , 5 ].…”

“…The aphorism of training of the surgeon proposed by Halsted in 1904 that ‘see one, do one, teach one’ is being transformed into ‘see one, repeat virtual stimulation, real practice’ [ 13 ]. Meanwhile, the visualization and interactive experimental procedure largely stimulated the learners’ study motivation and initiative [ 3 , 14 ]. A wide array of studies also confirmed the benefits of virtual stimulation-based medical training in skills development and patient safety [ 15–18 ].…”

Comparison of pulpal vitalization and root canal therapy in symptomatic immature permanent molars

“…Live pulp treatment or pulpotomy aims to preserve pulp life and stimulate the remaining pulp to repair the structural and functional pulp-dentin complex (5). It means that the tooth pulp survives and regenerates the dentin in the exposure area to cut off the body's internal environment from the oral cavity by creating a biological barrier and preventing the re-invasion of pathogens.…”

“…Some patients may not be present at any of the follow-up times. Therefore their data will not be available to researchers at the relevant follow-up times, which have occurred in the National Vital Pulp Therapy Project and can be interpreted in terms of results (5). The result has no side effects.…”