In the educational research, the clinic systematically investigates how prevention-oriented and interdisciplinary content can be taught to students in a sustainable manner and what influence these didactic concepts have on learning success. A particular focus is placed on firmly anchoring an understanding of organ crosstalk—i.e., the bidirectional interactions between oral structures and systemic processes—in the training program. Students learn to classify oral markers, functional deviations, and systemic relationships and to recognize their significance for diagnostics, risk assessment, and therapy planning.

A central component of this teaching is the integration of modern digital learning tools, including the Orthotrainer as part of the ORCA/Orthocampus project. These tools support adaptive learning, offer case-based simulations, and enable students to train preventive decision-making processes in a structured manner. The digital supplement to traditional teaching creates greater interactivity and promotes the practical application of scientific concepts already during their studies.

An important part of our teaching research is the evaluation of learning success. We continuously analyze how the teaching of preventive and systemically oriented content—combined with digital learning scenarios—affects exam performance, exam results, and the long-term understanding of complex interrelationships. Initial results show that students who work with these methods not only benefit significantly in exams, but also develop a more pronounced understanding of the prevention-oriented and interdisciplinary role of orthodontics.

Contact:
iknaupukaachende
nlang@ukaachen.de
samichaelukaachende
frkettnerukaachende