Computer Use Among Post Graduate Dental Students in India

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective Computers have become an integral component of dentistry finding application in both patient care and dental education. Few studies have been conducted to assess the use of computers in the field of dentistry in India. The present study was conducted to assess the knowledge, skills, practice and attitudes of post graduate dental students towards the use of computers in dentistry. Subjects and Methods A self administered questionnaire was distributed among the post graduate dental students of KLE University, Belgaum, India. 68 out of 82 students responded, the data was analyzed and represented as frequency and percentage. Results Most of the students acquired knowledge about computer through informal training. Internet use was very high among the students. They could perform basic operations on computer but faced problem in some advanced functions like hardware maintenance, software installation, use of spreadsheets and photo editing. 73.5% used computer in both home and college. More than 75% owned their own computer. Only 41.2% felt they were well trained to use computers. More than 90% believed that computer education should be a part of dental curriculum. Conclusion Though computers in being extensively used by the post graduate dental students, they lack formal training and feel the need for the same. Computer training will be helpful in creating better dental professionals.