DENTAL TECHNOLOGY FOUNDATION DEGREE Documents/Course... · implants, digital systems and semi precision and precision attachments along with the clinical procedures and the role of

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DENTAL TECHNOLOGY

FOUNDATION DEGREE

PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION 2020 - 2021

THE SHEFFIELD COLLEGE in partnership with

THE OPEN UNIVERSITY

SHEFFIELD COLLEGE in partnership with

THE OPEN UNIVERSITY

PROGRAMME SPECIFICATIONS

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1. EDUCATIONAL AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

1.1 The programme aims to provide students with a broad – based area of study in the specialist fields and enhance the knowledge required to be skilled, competent Dental Care Professionals (Dental Technicians) working within the General Dental Council standards. Through interactive tuition from a range of experienced academic staff, professionals and guest lecturers, theoretical modules are aimed at enabling students to acknowledge, recognise and understand the underpinning knowledge required in the specialist areas of Dental Technology and applying that theoretical knowledge to aid in the design and manufacture of custom made dental appliances. Developing the practical skills, demonstrating appropriate transferable skills, self-awareness and the capacity to engage in reflective practice is made attainable through the tuition provided by experienced teaching staff who have worked in and owned laboratories. At Level 4 the first year learners will study 3 modules in the first semester focusing on the academic, professional and basic practical skills necessary for success in the profession: Introductory Dental Technology will focus on the fundamental theories and the practical techniques in the manufacture of appliances. Basic Anatomy and Terminology will provide learners with an understanding of the oral cavity, landmarks, bones of the neck and skull, muscles of mastication and how they function to enable the manufacture of appliances. Dental Legislation and Professionalism focuses on the dental team, the legal requirements of being dental care professionals and the legal requirements of manufacturing dental appliances along with the professional standards set out by the General Dental Council. In the second Semester the learners will study 3 modules focusing on: Introduction to Dental Material Sciences focuses on the material selection, the material constituents and property requirements of dental materials. To investigate the uses and limitations of these materials along with safe handling. Dental Technology Techniques –Removable prosthesis focuses on the manufacturing techniques of removable complete dentures and their design requirements. Dental Public Health and Professional Practice focuses on science and practice measures to prevent the onset of oral diseases and how the dental team provides a service to an individual and the community. Emphasis will also be on the professional standards in dealing with medical emergencies. The study of behavioural sciences and the impact on communication skills and how as a dental care professional learners need to recognise cultural and social differences, diversity and equality. In the second year (Level 5) involves learners experiencing further professional understanding and manufacturing techniques and theoretical practices required for the manufacture of partial removable appliances, orthodontic appliances and Fixed prosthesis as is required to meet the standards set by the General Dental Council. The learners will focus on human anatomy, the physiology of cells, tissues and the regulatory and respiratory systems. The learners will also focus on structure and chemical properties of dental materials, chemical reactions and biological properties of materials and reactions. The learners will also focus on the introductory advanced techniques of utilising dental implants, digital systems and semi precision and precision attachments along with the clinical procedures and the role of the dental team with regards to these processes. The learners will also produce a work based project which will encompass the manufacture of an appliance and feature elements from the other modules.


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1.2 The programme has a number of unique or exceptional selling points including:

Developing the knowledge and understanding of Dental Technology related theory and concepts, equipping the learners with the tools to build lasting relationships with clients, provide quality care for patients and be familiar with the need for lifelong learning and continuous professional development.

The programme will be delivered by a combination of staff who are experienced dental care professionals and science based.

Provide an opportunity to work in a professional setting and enhance their knowledge on the ever evolving digital dentistry phenomena, building a comprehensive portfolio of work, skills and knowledge leading into employment or further study.

Liverpool Community College and the University of Bolton both offer a programme in this subject, but they are located adequately far away for us to be the institution of choice for students in Sheffield and South Yorkshire/Nottinghamshire/Derbyshire

The personal and academic support that the students receive in the department is extremely strong

Sheffield has a reputation for being a good place to study 1.3 Programme aims:

Develop independent, lifelong reflective learners

Provide a fit for purpose educational programme suited to the needs of students and employers, enabling students to register as a Dental Care Professional with the General Dental Council

Enhance the career prospects and employability of learners by preparing students for employment, further study or research

Promote a challenging academic environment to foster student interest and study

Enable students to successfully develop the professional, specialist qualities and subject-specific transferable skills required in contexts and situations beyond the educational environment

Provide a curriculum which develops a range of academic, employability, key, professional, research, technical, transferable, and vocational skills appropriate to the level of the award.

Promote the concept of lifelong learning by enabling students to develop the experience and skills necessary to achieve a high order of independent thought and action to act as a Dental Care Professional.

Promote Continuous Professional Development as a dental care professional to keep up with the standards and latest research, knowledge and techniques in the profession.

Provide a conceptual, dynamic and theoretical framework encouraging learners to acquire the holistic, specialist knowledge and understanding necessary to become an effective member of the dental team.

1.4 In addition the College Educational Aims:

Provide a supportive and inclusive learning environment which will enable success for all learners

Develop flexible approaches to programme delivery and support which reflect the needs and expectations of our students

Provide a learning experience that is informed by research, scholarship, reflective practice and engagement with industry and professions.


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Establish a culture of constant improvement in learning, teaching and assessment that is anticipatory, enabling, supportive, rewarding and fully aligned with the College’s vision and strategic objectives

Encourage the development of students’ intellectual and imaginative powers, creativity, independence, critical self-awareness, imagination and skills that will enhance global employment opportunities on graduation in all programmes

2. RELATIONSHIP TO OTHER PROGRAMMES AND AWARDS

2.1. This programme will complement the current BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma course already offered by The Sheffield College and allow for collaborative work with students on the Part-Time Higher Apprenticeship Foundation Degree in Dental Technology in terms of lectures, projects and resources. The degree does not share any modules with other courses currently run at the College. 2.2. Although the programme prepares students for the industry and a career, if they wish to continue their academic studies at NQF Level 6 a wide range of programmes is available across the country, at Universities and HEIs such as the one year top up at The Sheffield College which will allow students to study and obtain a level 6 qualification in specialist areas; either for employment or to continue with the pathway paved out from NQF level 3 up to level 6, enabling students to pursue further study on a NQF level 7 programme such as the MSc in Dental Technology offered at The University of Sheffield and other Universities and HEIs. 2.3. Students completing their degree will have opportunities for employment and self-employment as dental care professionals, more specifically as dental technicians who are registered with the General Dental Council and work within their scope of practice document.


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3. Programme outcomes For the FD Dental Technology (Full Time)

On successful completion of Level 4 of this progamme students will:

3A. Knowledge and understanding

Learning outcomes: Learning and teaching strategy/ assessment methods

A1. Demonstrate an awareness of medical emergencies that may occur in the workplace and their prevention and management, including basic life support and resuscitation A2. Understand the communication between dentists, dental technicians and patients, other health professionals and the public in general A3. Recognise interpersonal skills appropriate for working within a multi-skilled team A4. Understand the medico-legal and ethical principles upon which the practice of dentistry is based A5. Understand the principles and importance of prevention in relation to dental disease, and how these principles are applied A6. Understand the safe and effective management of the manufacture of custom-made dental devices and of the dental laboratory environment

Lectures, Tutorial, Seminars, Workshops,Practical, Group work and problem – orientated learning, directed self study

Essays, Reports, Case study, Portfolio, Blogs/journals, Online Tests and

Written Exams


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A7. Apply the principles related to the design and manufacture of custom-made dental devices for fixed prosthodontics, removable prosthodontics and orthodontics A8. Recognise other specific dental topics including behavioural sciences, dental public health and preventive dentistry A9. Understand the system for the delivery of health care in the UK with special reference to oral Health care. A10. Understand the oral health needs of different sections of the community A11. Understand the importance of peer review and continuing professional education and development.

3B. Cognitive skills


B1. Identify and use sources of continuing professional development and apply critical thought to a continually expanding knowledge base such that professional competence is maintained



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B2. Assess personal progress, including the identification of strengths and weaknesses B3. Recognise and fulfil their responsibilities both as adult learners and as teachers B4. Use the principles of peer review and quality assurance in the workplace.


Written Exams

3C. Practical and professional skills


C1. Understand how to manage the receipt of work from the clinical area C2. Recognise how to use a variety of types of information and data to establish the requirements for a particular removable prosthodontic device C3. Understand when and how to progress removable prosthodontic cases within the dental laboratory matched to treatment plans



Written Exams, Practical Assessments


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C4. Understand how to undertake the initial planning and preparation of removable prosthodontic appliances for manufacture in the dental laboratory C5. Recognise how to assess the fitness for purpose both of custom-made dental devices employed in the manufacture of removable prosthodontic devices and of the final device itself.

3D. Key/transferable skills


D1. Exercise initiative and personal responsibility D2. Understand how to communicate effectively at all levels in both the scientific and professional contexts using verbal, non-verbal and written means D3. Use health informatics and information technology as a means of communication, for data collection and analysis, for improving services to patients and for self-directed learning D4. Recognise how to manage their learning in the context of establishing a philosophy of continuing professional development



Written Exams


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For the FD Dental Technology (Full Time) On successful completion of Level 5 of this progamme students will:



A1. Demonstrate awareness of biomedical sciences which form the basis for understanding human growth, development and health

A2. Demonstrate awareness of integration of human body systems, normal homeostasis and mechanisms of responses to insults, including trauma and disease

A3. Demonstrate awareness of oral biology, to include detailed knowledge of the form and function of teeth and associated structures in health and disease

A4. Evaluate modern developments in biomolecular sciences

A5. Demonstrate awareness of human diseases and pathogenic processes, including genetic disorders, and the manifestation of those diseases

A6. Understand diseases and disorders of the oral cavity and associated structures, their causes and sequelae together with the principles of their prevention and management


Essays, Reports, Case study,Portfolio, Blogs/journals, Online Tests and Written Exams


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A7. Recognise sources of infection and the means available for infection control

A8. Evaluate biomaterials sciences, including the modern developments thereof

A9. Demonstrate an awareness of when, how, and to whom to refer for specialist advice

A10. Apply the broad principles of scientific research and evaluation of evidence that are necessary for quality control within the dental laboratory



B1. Discharge the obligations incumbent upon every professional person including contributions to, and support for, the profession's collective initiatives in self-regulation, maintenance of standards, and the advancement of knowledge and expertise B2. Evaluate outcomes of the design and manufacturing process, including the unexpected, and undertake remedial action where appropriate

Lectures, Tutorial, Seminars, Workshops,Practical, Group work and problem – orientated learning, directed self study Essays, Reports, Case study,Portfolio, Blogs/journals, Online Tests and Written Exams


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C1. Manage the receipt of work from the clinical area C2. Use a variety of types of information and data to establish the requirements for a particular orthodontic device C3. Demonstrate an awareness of when and how to progress orthodontic cases within the dental laboratory matched to treatment plans C4. Undertake the initial planning and preparation of orthodontic appliances for manufacture in the dental laboratory C5. Assess the fitness for purpose both of custom-made dental devices employed in the manufacture of orthodontic devices and of the final device itself. C6. Demonstrate an awareness of when and how to progress fixed prosthodontic cases within the dental laboratory matched to treatment plans C7. Undertake the initial planning and preparation of fixed prosthodontic appliances for manufacture in the dental laboratory


Essays, Reports, Case study,Portfolio, Blogs/journals, Online Tests and Written Exams, Practical Assessments


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C8. Assess the fitness for purpose both of custom-made dental devices employed in the manufacture of fixed prosthodontic devices and of the final device itself.

3D. Key/transferable skills


D1. Demonstrate awareness of how to work effectively as members of a team D2. Analyse and resolve problems, and deal with uncertainty D3. Manage time, set priorities and work to prescribed time limits D4. Demonstrate awareness of when to make decisions based on sound ethical, moral and scientific principles D5. Evaluate the evidence published in refereed scientific journals and other publications for sound experimental design and statistical analysis D6. Evaluate the validity of claims related to products or techniques.

Lectures, Tutorial, Seminars, Workshops,Practical, Group work and problem – orientated learning, directed self study Essays, Reports, Case study,Portfolio, Blogs/journals, Online Tests and Written Exams


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4. Programme Structure

Programme Structure - LEVEL 4

Compulsory modules Credit points

Optional modules Credit points

Introductory Dental Technology Basic Dental Anatomy and Terminology Dental Legislation and Professionalism Introduction to Dental Material Sciences Dental Technology Techniques- Removable Prosthesis Dental Public Health and Professional Practice

20 20 20 20 20 20

Programme Structure - LEVEL 5

Compulsory modules Credit points

Optional modules Credit points

Dental Biosciences and Anatomy Dental Technology Techniques- Removable Prosthesis and Orthodontics Dental Technology Techniques – Fixed Restorative Introduction to Advanced Techniques and Work Based Project Dental Material Science

20 40 20 20 20

Students completing Level 4 with a minimum of 120 credits are eligible for the award of a Certificate of Higher Education in Dental Technology Students completing Levels 4 and 5 with a minimum of 240 credits are eligible for the award of a Foundation Degree in Dental Technology


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5. DISTINCTIVE FEATURES OF THE PROGRAMME STRUCTURE

5.1 The proposal offers a highly practical focus to Dental Technology, allowing students to develop specialist skills in depth whilst also gaining a broad, contextual understanding of the profession in an era which demands multi-skilled graduates with highly transferable skills alongside specialist knowledge. The course encourages the development of practical skills and a comprehensive understanding of the competences set in the scope of practice set by the GDC, meeting the standards of the GDC and the needs of employers. This emphasis on a fit for purpose programme, balancing theoretical knowledge and practical skill development is attractive to internal progression and external students alike and will allow them to be desirable practitioners and professionals working within the dental team. 5.2 At Level 4 in their first year students will study 3 modules in their semester focusing on the introductory underpinning knowledge, academic, practical skills, legislation and professional practice necessary to be a successful dental care professional: Introductory Dental Technology, Basic Dental Anatomy and Terminology, Dental Legislation and Professionalism. The second semester will expand on the introductory dental technology techniques and professional practice as part of the dental team whilst beginning to explore the place and role of materials is dentistry: Introduction to Dental Materials, Dental Technology Techniques – Removable Prosthesis, Dental Public Health and Professional Practice. 5.3 At level 5 (second year), in their first semester students will experience further professional understanding and manufacturing techniques and theoretical practices required for the manufacture of partial removable appliances and orthodontic appliances. Along-side building on and enhancing their knowledge of dental anatomy, human anatomy, the physiology of cells, tissues and the regulatory and respiratory systems: Dental Biosciences and Anatomy, Dental Technology Techniques – Removable Prosthesis and Orthodontics. In the second semester students explore and demonstrate a knowledge of dental materials, their structure and chemical properties along with an understanding of their importance on appliance design and manufacture according to the GDC standards. The continuous development of practical skill and knowledge will increase as students will manufacture fived prosthesis equipping them with manufacturing techniques and theoretical practice in all specialist areas of Dental Technology. 5.4 In the final semester of the second year, learners will produce a work based project which will encompass the manufacture of an appliance and feature elements from other modules. Learners will also, through tuition and research, recognise and acknowledge and understand the advanced dental laboratory techniques providing them with a pathway to study the subject in greater depth on the level 6 BSc Top Up programme offered at The Sheffield College, other HEIs and Universities and then further research if they so choose to pursue their studies at NQF Level 7.

6. SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS AND THEIR LEARNING 6.1 Teaching and Learning strategies are adopted which aim to develop students’ skills as independent self-motivated learners, ably setting and achieving goals, enabling them to become life-long learners after the end of the programme. The supportive learning environment at the College ensures that our students see themselves as central to the entire cohort’s learning experience, and as gradually autonomous learners, creators of new knowledge and practices, which they can share amongst the community of learners. Whilst the collaborative experiences are an excellent exemplar


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of this, we seek to promote opportunities for such collaborative learning through all units, both theory and practice orientated. 6.2 Teaching on the programme is delivered in lecture, seminar and workshop classes of normally no more than 20 students supported by small group and individual tutorials. 6.3 Tutorials are a vital part of the programme, helping students to review and evaluate their progress. Formal and informal, group and one-to-one tutorials take place at regular intervals throughout the programme. Formal tutorials are documented to include topics discussed, guidance, feedback, support, actions and outcomes. They are also an opportunity to inform members of staff of any personal issues students wish them to know. Group tutorials focus on project work, discussion, progress review and current and future information, given as guidance and feedback. Students are expected to take notes and use this opportunity as reflection and potential areas of progress and development of projects. 6.4 Support and guidance with written work; essays and reports will be provided in on-going tutorials (rough drafts may be submitted). Supporting documentation such as file work (PDP) will be monitored at various stages of the course giving an indication of progress. Written assignments and completed files will be assessed at the end of the appropriate module. Oral Presentations will receive on-going support and guidance through seminars and group critiques. 6.5 The VLE (currently Moodle/Google Classroom) is employed as a core method of delivery and communication between staff and students and peer groups, and Turnitin software is used on all HE courses. The VLE proves particularly beneficial for group collaboration projects significantly extending the learning environment. Where appropriate, social media sites such as Facebook and LinkedIn are also used to support projects, although they are not utilised for assessment purposes. We also subscribe to BOB National (Box of Broadcasts) and students have full access to this excellent and continually expanding learning resource. 6.6 Information Literacy is embedded within the programme and students are offered classes during induction to this end and are also expected to attend tutorials regularly where these skills are reinforced. Tutorials and seminars provide an environment where formative feedback and guidance can be given throughout the programme, whilst regular access to/visits from LRC further enhances and underpins the level to which support is offered for the cohort and the individual student, tailoring advice to their particular needs. Students will have use of the LRC at the City Campus University Centre and the College is committed to continuing its expansion of materials for its Foundation and Honours degrees. 6.7 The focal point for the student cohort is a pastoral tutor who uses weekly tutorial sessions for information exchange. These tutorial sessions comply with a college-wide system and guidelines in terms of tracking students in their personal and professional development. The sessions may be individually centred or group-based, as the needs arise. 6.8 In addition to this the College provides a comprehensive range of services to support students throughout their time at college and wherever and whenever necessary, the Personal tutor may refer the student to the college’s specialist support areas. In particular, students may avail themselves of the following:

Student Services – a full range of support and advice, including financial assistance;

Careers and Guidance;


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Counselling;

Additional Support – for those with additional support needs such as physical difficulties, dyslexia etc.;

LRC – excellent study support and research advice at all levels is available from the highly qualified and experienced staff at the College.

6.9 All students learn how to develop CVs, prepare job applications and generally engage with financial and business practice, and all the units develop and enhance the professional and specialist skills needed for students to become reflective practitioners, planning recording and developing a potential career trajectory within the context of Dental Technology. 7. CRITERIA FOR ADMISSION

7.1 Students are required to have a NQF level 3 qualification in Dental Technology (preferably) or other science related subjects. Students should also have English and Maths GCSE at Grade C or above, or the equivalent, e.g. Functional Skills at Level 2. Applicants should have a genuine interest and passion for the subject and be able to demonstrate this articulately along with motivation, confidence and creativity. 7.2 The Sheffield College does not admit students from outside the European Union. For students whose language of instruction was not English for the last two years of secondary schooling, IELTS Level 6 with minimum 6 score in all skills areas is required. 7.3 In line with the Sheffield College’s commitment to widening participation, we encourage applicants from a diverse range of backgrounds. If students are mature learners, they may present a more varied profile of achievement that is likely to include extensive work experience and/or a range of professional qualifications in their work sector. References, alternative experience and skills will all be taken into account. 8. LANGUAGE OF STUDY

English 9. INFORMATION ABOUT ASSESSMENT REGULATIONS

9.1 The Academic Regulations are an important part of the College’s quality assurance infrastructure. They govern the academic conduct of both students and staff, ensure that all students are admitted, assessed and awarded in an equitable way and that the academic standards of The Open University’s awards are maintained. The OU Academic Regulations may be found here:

https://www.sheffcol.ac.uk/media/editor/HE%20Documents/OU%20Validation%20Regulati

ons%202018-19.pdf

https://www.sheffcol.ac.uk/media/editor/HE%20Documents/OU%20Validation%20Regulations%202018-19.pdf

https://www.sheffcol.ac.uk/media/editor/HE%20Documents/OU%20Validation%20Regulations%202018-19.pdf


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10. METHODS FOR EVALUATING AND IMPROVING THE QUALITY AND STANDARDS OF

TEACHING AND LEARNING

10.1 The HE Unit monitors and supports quality and operations across all courses and is the first point of contact between the Open University and The Sheffield College for quality, operational and strategic matters.

10.2 The Sheffield College’s quality assurance procedures monitor the programmes it offers and to ensure opportunities for quality enhancement. Student evaluation of the programme takes place following each module. The outcomes of these evaluations are collated and tutors respond as appropriate. 10.3 Evaluation is reported to and monitored by the Programme Board. In addition to this feedback on the teaching and learning, there is an Annual Student Survey which covers all aspects of the student experience. The outcomes of this are reported to the Programme Board and to the Academic Quality and Standards Committee (AQSC) which monitors the implementation of action arising from the survey. 10.4 The College will have an External Examiner in place who is be responsible for monitoring the programme in order to enhance the analysis of the coherence and progression. 10.5 An Annual Report to the Open University will also be prepared which gathers together the evaluation, external examiners reports, course review and actions arising from them. 10.6 Student representatives attend the Programme Board and report directly on the current teaching and learning. Tutors meet informally throughout the term and discuss teaching and learning and review progress and annually to consider all the evaluations and data in order to review, revise and enhance the course in response to the monitoring process. Annexe 1: Curriculum map

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Annexe 1 - Curriculum map This table indicates which study units assume responsibility for delivering (shaded) and assessing () particular programme learning outcomes.

Programme outcomes

Level Study module/unit

A1

A2

A3

A4

A5

A6

A7

A8

A9

A10

A11

B1

B2

B3

B4

C1

C2

C3

C4

C5

D1

D2

D3

D4

4 Introductory Dental Technology × × ×

Basic Dental Anatomy and Terminology × ×

Dental Legislation and Professionalism × × × × × × × × × ×

Introduction to Dental Material Sciences

× × ×

Dental Technology Techniques- Removable Prosthesis

× × × × ×

Dental Public Health and Professional Practice

× × × × × × × × ×

Programme outcomes

Level Study module/unit

A1

A2

A3

A4

A5

A6

A7

A8

A9

A10

B1

B2

C1

C2

C3

C4

C5

C6

C7

C8

D1

D2

D3

D4

D5

D6

5 Dental Biosciences and Anatomy × × × × × × × × × × ×

Dental Technology Techniques- Removable Prosthesis and Orthodontics

× × × × × × × × × × × × × ×

Dental Technology Techniques – Fixed Restorative

× × × × × × × × × × × × × ×

Introduction to Advanced Techniques and Work Based Project

× × × × × × × ×

Dental Material Science × × × × × ×