Integrative pedagogy in Suupirssi Internships - Learning Experiences of Dental Hygienist Students
Suuhygienistiopiskelijoiden kokemuksia ammatillisen osaamisensa kehittymisestä
Keywords:
integrative pedagogy, clinical practice, dental hygienist students, expertice, professional competenceAbstract
The research investigated the learning experiences of dental hygienist students during their clinical practice in the mobile oral healthcare unit, Suupirssi using the integrative pedagogy model. The research data, collected thought five thematic focus-group interviews (17 students), was analyzed using content analysis. Students learning experiences can be found all four integrative pedagogy elements. Students learning experiences described the experiential knowledge of the customers and the working environment. Theoretical knowledge was important for the students who came up with development ideas during the clinical practice. The clinical practice expanded the students’ understanding of the scope in dental hygienist jobs. Students were more aware of their expertise in their own field and what skills and knowledge they need to practice more. During the clinical practice and their placement students gained socio-cultural competence. The results show that integrative pedagogy is a suitable pedagogical model for clinical practice in the mobile oral healthcare unit, because it enhances the professional competencies of students towards professional expertise.
