The Role of VR-Haptic Trainers in Dental Education. Proceedings from the First International VR-Haptic Thinkers Meetup Held in Kuopio, Finland

Abstract

Background: Implementation of VR-haptics-supported dental curriculums is stymied by a variety of economical, methodological, and institutional challenges. To mitigate these, it is important to share information related to the acquisition and use of this technology. Improved networking aids in the pooling and dissemination of collective expertise and can help improve sample sizes in educational research by bringing new ideas and techniques to the limelight.Summary: The VR-Haptic Thinkers Meetup held in Kuopio, Finland, in November 2023, was the first of its kind on VR-haptics-supported dental education. The conference brought together over 200 students, dentists, and scientists interested in VR-haptics and dental education. The attendees had experience in research, publication, study, and teaching in the fields of dentistry. This summary reflects the proceedings from this recent scientific meeting to assess current preclinical and clinical challenges in dental education and propose future directions and possible solutions. The specific aims of the VR-Haptic Meetup were to (1) advance knowledge on the usability of VR-haptics in preclinical, clinical, and postgraduate dental training; (2) share experimental data, challenges, and solutions and reinforce collaborative capacity initiatives in education and research; (3) engage with universities' policy makers to address the benefits of VR-haptics in manual dexterity development; and (4) bring together those interested in dental education to strengthen the existing partnerships and extend networking. Conclusion:The meetup provided a free and inclusive platform for in-person and online attendance with widespread attendees from across the globe. The goal of the meeting was to address challenges facing the preclinical, clinical, and postgraduate education regarding the development of new VR-haptics-supported training methods. Key opinion leaders from around the world provided their perspectives, with ample time for discussion with the participants.