New examination format in maxillofacial surgery
Personal knowledge level analysis strengthens skills development and motivation to learn
At Witten/Herdecke University, the subject of maxillofacial surgery shows that examinations do not necessarily have to be associated with stress and pressure for dental students. Instead of a traditional multiple-choice exam, an innovative and student-centred examination format was introduced here: a written knowledge analysis followed by an individual feedback session. This new format was developed by Priv.-Doz. Dr Dr Lars Bonitz in close cooperation with the Office of Student Affairs for Dentistry and the Chair of Maxillofacial Surgery under the direction of Prof Dr Dr Stefan Haßfeld.
At the centre of the programme is the conviction that learning is an individual development process that is strengthened by appreciative feedback, genuine reflection and personal support. After being analysed, each student receives differentiated feedback in a personal interview in which strengths, weaknesses and individual learning strategies are discussed in detail. This allows not only subject-specific gaps to be identified, but also unfavourable learning patterns to be corrected at an early stage - before they become entrenched. At the same time, the course content from lectures and practicals is deepened and put into a meaningful context.
Promoting dialogue between teachers and students
The new examination format is exemplary of what characterises teaching at Witten: an encounter at eye level, a dialogue between teachers and students in which not only knowledge is tested, but competence is developed. Exam anxiety is replaced by orientation, the pressure to perform gives way to an honest interest in personal progress. Students do not experience themselves as mere examinees, but as active learners whose development is taken seriously. They not only gain professional security, but also self-confidence - an ideal preparation for the state examination and their later professional life.
Dentistry in Witten therefore means more than just learning theoretical content - it means growing together, taking responsibility for your own learning and developing skills in an inspiring environment that are both professional and personal.