I would like to get ideas about better ways to do clinical competencies on preclinical dental hygiene students. We watch them do the skill on their student partner and grade them as I am sure all of you do. The problem is that they get so nervous it affects their performance. Can anyone suggest a way to alleviate some stress from these competencies and make them a better experience for the students?
Re: clinical competencies
hooligan
13-08-2007 01:00
We are having a similar experience with a few students. To alleviate stress, we cut back on the number of times they would be formally evaluated a few years ago. This has had mixed results. If they are nervous already, the idea of being graded makes it worse. I think they need to get more exposure to testing and become desensitized to the "clipboard". Afterall, if they are so nervous with a peer, what's going to happen with a "real" patient.
Unfortunately, we find if they don't get a grade on a particular procedure, some don't take it as seriously. This has created problems in clinic also, and we will be revising those evaluation criteria again too!
Re: clinical competencies
ciara
13-08-2007 01:03
too am looking for better ways to grade in clinic, if anyone can help!!!
Re: clinical competencies
keane
13-08-2007 01:08
have found that when I come around to grade I say two things:
"I want you to take several deep breaths and then start in the area where you are most comfortable with your instrumentation." I then say,
" I am going to turn my back for a minute for you to get started and then I want you to begin." I will then tell you other areas to go to for your instrumentation.".
