LE3 .A278 2020

2020

Vibert, Ann
MacLeod, Anna

Acadia University

Master of Education

Masters

Curriculum Studies

Education

Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) which is generally described as any healthcare modality outside of mainstream medicine, is being used by a significant portion of the general population creating an environment where it may be necessary for healthcare professionals to incorporate this knowledge into their education and practice. The literature is lacking lack with regard to research about CAM in dental and dental hygiene curriculum and in relation to faculty attitudes toward the topic. The purpose of this qualitative, single case study in one Atlantic Canadian University was to explore the attitudes of one institutions dental and dental hygiene faculty members towards CAM. Faculty members opinions about CAM inclusion in curriculum, and their perceptions about issues and benefits relating to the topic were explored. This information maybe useful in reshaping curriculum, faculty development, and encouraging further research with regard to CAM in oral health. Semi-structured open-ended interviews were conducted with dental and dental hygiene faculty members. Questions focused on attitudes toward CAM, perceptions of compatibility with current curriculum, and perceived barriers and facilitators to incorporating CAM in to education and practice. The study has been undertaken from a constructivist view point. The four-dimensional model of a curriculum framework by Lee, Steketee, Rogers, and Moran (2013) was used to guide the exploration of CAM in relation to oral healthcare education. The findings suggest that there are overall positive attitudes, however, a lack of knowledge on the subject exists and there is caution due to perceived lack of evidence. Educators recognized the need for an information organizer so that more informed decisions about CAM in curriculum can be made.

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https://scholar.acadiau.ca/islandora/object/theses:3529