The continued importance of online learning
Featured Products Promotional FeaturesPosted by: Dental Design 28th November 2021
Even before the world changed, online learning was in full force. Though it will never fully replace in-person learning, it remains a highly beneficial adjunctive educational tool for dental professionals around the world. Of course, at the height of the pandemic, the majority of individuals had no choice but to delve further into how online platforms could be used to broaden their knowledge. But now, even with the gradual return of live events, online educational resources retain an important place for dental teams.
Anytime, Anywhere
The first thing people tend to think about when it comes to virtual learning is the flexibility that it offers. For those who would like to continue using online educational tools or get back into traditional forms of studying but currently have other priorities to consider, such as full-time working hours or a young family, online education allows them to tailor their classes to their schedules. This flexibility also gives them an opportunity to better manage their time – a skill that can easily be applied to other aspects of their lives.
Easy Access
With internet learning also comes the opportunity to connect with other people all over the world. By removing physical restrictions of geographical location, professionals can vastly broaden the number and type of people within their networks.
Additionally, online learning can be highly cost-effective. It eradicates the expenses of travel or accommodation if studying away from home. It also significantly increases access to programmes for individuals who may not be able to go abroad for modules to learn from world-leading instructors and lecturers. Virtual events and/or live-streamed lectures mean that everyone has access to the same type of education, no matter their situation or geographical location.
The Personal Experience
It’s no secret that not everyone thrives within a traditional schooling environment. Some individuals may struggle to concentrate while comparing themselves to others, or they might not feel confident enough to interact and share their own thoughts or questions. This can be detrimental to how someone learns, preventing them from gaining maximum information and understanding, while also potentially contributing to anxiety and stress levels. Online learning allows these people a level of anonymity that can encourage them to seek the answers that they need.
Virtual programmes can also offer more control over studies, so candidates can do things at their own pace. There is often material to go back to or to review prior to a virtual session, which can encourage a deeper understanding of the content being covered.
One of many learning avenues
Gaining an online education is just one of the many forms of learning that dental professionals will want and need as they further their understanding in any topics of their choosing. In-person education and hands-on training are both still essential aspects for successful skill and career development in dentistry.
This is particularly important within dental implantology, where clinicians and their teams must be competent and have confidence in a range of clinical techniques in order to achieve the best outcomes for different patients. Online learning and networking definitely have their place, but they are optimised when accompanied by in-person education.
The Association of Dental Implantology (ADI) understands this and, as a keen supporter of professional education in the field, offers an array of online and face-to-face learning opportunities for the entire dental implant team. These include membership of Dentinal Tubules – an expansive online library of articles, case studies and more, ideal for those looking to advance their knowledge at any place and time that suits them. This is complemented perfectly with the return of the ADI live events, which will include the ADI Team Congress 2022 next year. A highly anticipated event, it will provide a dynamic programme with lectures designed for each member of the dental implant team presented by both nationally and internationally renowned speakers. Visit the website for the full range of exciting educational opportunities available to ADI members.
Everyone learns differently, but a combination of methods is often the most effective. Online learning has been life-changing and a real asset during this pandemic, so even as live events and courses return to the profession, virtual resources and educational platforms will remain an important part of professional development for all.
For more information about the ADI, or to join, please visit the website www.adi.org.uk
