COMPUTER-ASSISTED-LEARNING IN DENTISTRY - A VIEW FROM THE UK

Objectives. The objectives of this paper are to review the development and impact of computer-assisted learning (CAL) in dentistry with emph asis on the UK. Data sources. This is a wide ranging review of dental, medical and technical literature. Study selection. An attempt has bee n made to evaluate present knowledge in an objective manner and to mak e some prediction as to the future development and use of computer-bas ed teaching methods in dentistry. Conclusions. The introduction of com puters as an educational tool in dentistry and the provision of CAL is having an impact not only on how dentists are trained but also on the skills they will need to acquire in the future to keep pace with this new technology. It is suggested that there is a great potential for c omputer-based continuing professional education for dental practitione rs, and that the Internet will provide access to such material. (C) 19 98 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.