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Micro-Credential: Promoting Critical Thinking
Micro-Credential: Promoting Critical Thinking
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Micro-Credential: Facilitating Small Group Learning
Micro-Credential: Promoting an Inclusive and Humanistic Learning Environment
Micro-Credential: Promoting an Inclusive and Humanistic Learning Environment
Micro-Credential:Developing a Teaching Philosophy
Micro-Credential:Developing a Teaching Philosophy
Micro-Credential: Technology Integration in Didactic Teaching
Micro-Credential: Technology Integration in Didactic Teaching
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Pedagogy/Andragogy

PA-001 - From Fillings to Feelings: Cultivating Interpersonal Skills in Dental Education

Monday, March 23, 2026
1:30 PM - 2:30 PM EDT
Location: Room 520 D, Fifth Floor, Palais
CE: 1
Mid Career Professional Micro-Credential:Developing a Teaching Philosophy
Keyword: Communication and Interpersonal Skills (PA)
SoTLFest Designation: Yes
LIAA Designation: No
The dental curriculum largely focuses on biomedical sciences and technical skills, which are essential but insufficient, for holistic patient care. Research underscores the importance of patient-centered care, which relies heavily on interpersonal skills like empathy, communication and active listening. These competencies are often overlooked in traditional dental education. With technological advancements enhancing global connectivity, effective interpersonal skills have become more critical than ever. Health care systems that integrate structured communication training show improved patient outcomes. Thus, embedding interpersonal skill development in dental programs is vital. This session presents insights from educators on implementing such training and examines the challenges encountered in the process.

Learning Objectives:

  • Describe the relevance and importance of teaching interpersonal and communication skills in dental education.
  • Identify effective, evidence-based communication techniques for use in dental clinical settings
  • Apply enhanced communication skills training at their institutions.