Dental students' perception about using videos in teaching professionalism: A Saudi Arabian experience

Objective To describe the development and evaluation of using videos (watched and student-generated) for teaching stronger interpersonal communication skills to dental students. Methodology We used the Experiential Learning Theory to develop a professionalism course for third-year dental students. Videos were used as the core method of teaching communication skills. Students were guided to produce videos that addressed an array of communication scenarios. Quantitative data was collected using a Likert-scale questionnaire to assess students' perceptions about watching and generating videos. The questionnaire was divided into 3 parts: the first part assessed students' perceptions and skills gained when producing videos. The second part assessed students' perceptions about watching videos to gain knowledge. The last part assessed their perceptions about their overall learning experience. Results A total of 110 students, 50 males and 60 females, were enrolled in the course. Developing team skills and a better understanding of professional communication with patients were acknowledged by 85% and 80% of students respectively during video production. Improved problem-solving skills were reported by 77% students while involved in video production. While watching motivational interviewing strategies and interpersonal skills videos, 86% stated that watching the videos improved their understanding of professional behavior with colleagues. Only 33% felt that they had enough time to prepare videos and only 38% were willing to prepare videos in the future. Conclusion Using videos in teaching communication skills was found effective. Producing videos had more benefits than simply watching videos. Caution should be given when allocating time for such activities.