Outcomes of Dental Hygiene Baccalaureate Degree Education in Canada

Abstract

There is little published literature about the outcomes of dental hygiene baccalaureate degree education, particularly in Canada. Since there are various dental hygiene entry‐to‐practice educational models in Canada, exploring baccalaureate dental hygiene education is becoming an increasingly important subject. The purpose of this study was to explore the personal outcomes and dental hygiene practice outcomes of dental hygiene degree‐completion education in Canada from the perspectives of diploma dental hygienists who have continued their education to the bachelor's degree level. This study employed a qualitative phenomenological design, using a maximum variation purposeful sampling strategy. Data generation occurred with sixteen dental hygienists across Canada through individual semistructured interviews. Interviews were audiorecorded, transcribed verbatim, and coded for data analysis, involving pattern recognition and thematic development. Themes that emerged included changes in self‐perception, values, and knowledge base. Changes in self‐perception were reflected in a reported increase in self‐confidence and perceived credibility. Changes in values included a greater appreciation for lifelong learning. Advancements in knowledge strengthened the development of specific abilities that ultimately influenced participants’ dental hygiene practice. These abilities included an increased ability to think critically, to make evidence‐based decisions, and to provide more comprehensive care. Participants also commented on having more career opportunities available to them outside of the private clinical practice setting. These results reveal important insights into the impact of earning a dental hygiene baccalaureate degree on oneself and one's dental hygiene practice.

Motivating influences and ability‐based outcomes of dental hygiene baccalaureate education in Canada

“…An increase in depth and breadth of knowledge within and outside of dental hygiene theory and self‐confidence had also been reported . The differences between abilities gained after a diploma and a degree related to cognitive abilities rather than technical or clinical elements …”

“…The literature examining related abilities after earning a dental hygiene degree demonstrates that baccalaureate education enhances abilities acquired in diploma education. Abilities such as critiquing and using research, critical thinking and problem‐solving, communicating and using technology, and self‐directed learning were noted by dental hygienists as being strengthened as a result of their baccalaureate education in dental hygiene . An increase in depth and breadth of knowledge within and outside of dental hygiene theory and self‐confidence had also been reported .…”

“…There is a paucity of literature examining motivating influences for pursuing a dental hygiene degree and ability‐based outcomes after earning this degree. A few studies have investigated motivators and ability‐based outcomes of practising dental hygienists who first earned a diploma and then returned to university to complete their dental hygiene degree . Canadian research investigating these areas includes Imai and Craig's 2005 examination of a decade of data through surveying dental hygiene degree‐completion graduates from UBC .…”

“…Canadian research investigating these areas includes Imai and Craig's 2005 examination of a decade of data through surveying dental hygiene degree‐completion graduates from UBC . In 2010, Kanji et al investigated a national sample of dental hygienists to ascertain their motivating reasons for returning to a Canadian university to earn a dental hygiene degree and abilities strengthened as a result of earning the degree . Most recently, Sunell et al investigated the differences between dental hygiene diploma and baccalaureate education in British Columbia focusing on ability‐based outcomes .…”

“…Abilities such as critiquing and using research, critical thinking and problem‐solving, communicating and using technology, and self‐directed learning were noted by dental hygienists as being strengthened as a result of their baccalaureate education in dental hygiene . An increase in depth and breadth of knowledge within and outside of dental hygiene theory and self‐confidence had also been reported . The differences between abilities gained after a diploma and a degree related to cognitive abilities rather than technical or clinical elements …”