Date on Master's Thesis/Doctoral Dissertation

5-2020

Document Type

Master's Thesis

Degree Name

M.S.

Department (Legacy)

Department of Oral Health and Rehabilitation

Department

Oral Biology

Degree Program

Oral Biology, MS

Committee Chair

Metz, Cynthia

Committee Co-Chair (if applicable)

Metz, Michael

Committee Member

Metz, Michael

Committee Member

Durski, Marcelo

Author's Keywords

education; oral hygiene; active learning; simulation; biofilm

Abstract

This thesis examines the effectiveness of an active learning approach in improving oral health literacy and attitude about science among at-risk students in the age range of third to sixth grades. This is done by designing and implementing a novel Oral Health Outreach module and video. Active learning components include engaging PowerPoint, oral hygiene discussion and demonstration, and finally a biofilm simulation, which utilizes glow-in-the-dark paint, dentoform models, and black lights that allow students to visualize the importance of plaque removal. Student comprehension of oral health concepts increased by an average of 52.4% on post-tests (n=61, p

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