Faculty judgment about student competence involves judgment about knowledge and its application. Multiple methods are used to assess knowledge and its application including: multiple choice examinations, written papers, patient cases analysis, either in writing or by simulation. Both norm referenced and criterion referenced methods of assessment are used.
Faculty judgment about a student competence involves judgment about skills. Generally skills are assessed in criterion referenced practical examinations and competency examinations performed on mannequin simulators, patients, simulations on computer or patient case simulations. Generally, these judgments of competence are bolstered by daily assessment of competence involved in the preclinical and clinical training . Faculty believe skill develops over time, in different circumstances, and can best be assessed with a variety of assessment mechanisms. No one examination is sufficient to judge skill competence.
Faculty judgment about student competence involves judgment about attitudes, values, behavior. Generally, behavior is assessed using criterion referenced daily assessment instruments while in daily contact in clinical situations. Faculty discuss unacceptable behavior with students when the behavior is seen. Faculty and staff may report unacceptable professional behaviors on a form available at all reception desks. Students with repeated or significant behavioral problems are referred to trained faculty counselors for professional counseling. Code of conduct violations are managed by a process that parallels the peer review process in organized dentistry. Code of conduct complaints that are made by faculty are adjudicated as either the student or faculty wish through the Student Affairs Committee. Offensive behavior is defined by an Offensive Behavior Policy and students exhibiting or experiencing such behavior are referred to the Equal Opportunity Officer of the School of Dentistry, a faculty member trained in managing such issues from a legal perspective.