Teaching at Dentistry and Oral Health
We work professionally with a unique educational model that unifies our study programmes and prepares our students for their future work.
All academic staff teach
At the department, we expect all academic staff to teach – and to play a part in developing the study programmes and creating a fruitful learning and teaching environment. The extent of teaching may depend on the type of employment.
The Aarhus Model of Dental Education
We have combined our 3 orofacial study programmes and integrated some of the teaching and clinical training in an educational model, known as the Aarhus Model of Dental Education, not seen elsewhere in the world.
By breaking down traditional orofacial and educational silos, we are fostering:
- Collaboration
- Synergy
- Knowledge on each other’s competencies among our students.
This educational model ensures graduates share a strong, unified academic foundation, preparing them to collaborate effectively and conduct team-based dental care in the clinics from day one.
3 things that characterise teaching at Dentistry and Oral Health:
Teaching across study programmes
As part of the Aarhus Model of Dental Education, students across the study programmes are to some extent taught the same academic programme elements, and have clinical training together. Therefore, our teaching staff must alternate between teaching their specialities on several degree programmes ensuring that our students are taught by an expert.
Interdisciplinary collaboration and sparring
All dental specialties and disciplines are represented at our department. Often, teachers from our different professional bachelor's and academic programmes teach side by side, allowing for collaboration and sparring with colleagues across fields of specialisation.
Teaching development
We prioritize teaching and have a designated pedagogical and didactic ambassador who conducts research on learning. Additionally, we organize theme days to e.g. equip clinical teachers with essential (teaching) skills, such as those related to team-based learning.
How teaching and research interact
Exposure to fresh perspectives
Interacting with students exposes you to diverse viewpoints and novel ideas. Questions and insights from the students will probably challenge your assumptions and introduce new angles to your research.
Feedback loop benefits your research
Teaching allows you to present your research in a simplified and structured manner. This process can help you identify gaps, refine your arguments, and enhance the overall clarity of your work through continuous feedback from students.
Research assistance from talented students
Engaging students in your research projects can provide valuable assistance. Talented and motivated students can contribute to data collection, literature reviews, and even co-authoring papers, increasing the productivity and scope of your research.
Skill development via teaching
Teaching hones your communication and organisational skills. Explaining complex concepts in an understandable way improves your ability to articulate your research findings to both academic and non-academic audiences.
Networking and strong collaborations
Establishing strong relationships with students can lead to long-term professional connections. Some students may become future colleagues, collaborators, or even experts in your field, expanding your academic and professional network.
