Exploring threshold concepts, tacit knowledge, and strategies for competency in restorative dentistry and fixed prosthodontics: a mixed-methods study among undergraduate dental students.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Acquiring competency in restorative dentistry (RD) and fixed prosthodontics (FP) is challenging for undergraduate dental students due to the presence of threshold concepts and tacit knowledge. The aim of this study was to identify the threshold concepts (knowledge barriers) and tacit knowledge (skill development barriers) necessary for achieving competencies in RD and FP using quantitative and qualitative approaches. The strategies for attaining these competencies were also proposed.

Methods

The present study adopted a critical-theorist mixed-method study design, using quantitative and qualitative approaches. The participants were third- to sixth-year dental students, and recent graduates. An online questionnaire was used to investigate the knowledge and skill req

SUBMITTER: Maneechot K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12465466 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature