Mutahira Lone1, José Monagas2, Asma Zulfiqar2, William Ruane3, Martin O’Driscoll3, Mawadda Abdelmahmoud Abdelgader Mohamed1, Ayesha Saeed Khan1, Suzanne Kennedy-O’Shea1, André Toulouse1.
1Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, 2Cork University Dental School and Hospital, 3Digital Scholarship Studio, Boole Library, University College Cork.
This SATLE-funded initiative aims to enhance the teaching of dental morphology by making learning more interactive, accessible, and enjoyable. Our project, integrating 3D-printed teeth into a gamified learning experience, has seen remarkable engagement from students.
The gamified approach encourages students to actively participate in identifying and categorizing teeth using 3D-printed models, reinforcing theoretical knowledge through hands-on experience. It is particularly exciting to see that students are not just engaging with the activity once—they are returning to it multiple times during practical sessions, using it as a self-assessment tool to refine their understanding. This repeated use highlights the project’s success in fostering independent learning and deeper retention of anatomical concepts.
A key element of this initiative is the involvement of past students as co-researchers, who provide valuable feedback based on their own experiences. Current students reported that peer-driven feedback has been immensely helpful in guiding their learning and improving their confidence in identifying dental structures.
By incorporating elements of competition and problem-solving, the activity has transformed traditional practical sessions into dynamic learning environments. The tactile nature of the 3D models, combined with structured challenges, aligns with Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles, ensuring accessibility and engagement for a diverse group of learners.
The positive response from students suggests that this approach could have long-term benefits for dental education. This project exemplifies the power of innovative pedagogy in enhancing student learning experiences and engagement.
We look forward to sharing more insights as the project continues to evolve!
