During term 1, I have learned a lot inside the classroom and inside the clinic. I have also learned a lot outside of the classroom and clinic too. From learning the basics of dentistry and the instruments and applying to them clinic, to learning the importance of correct sterilization and disinfection to learning different problem solving strategies and study strategies outside of the classroom. As I am a Dental Assistant already, my course-load in term 1 is not as much or as intense, I am still learning a lot about the hygiene career.
One of my favorite things to look back to is how far I have grown in clinic. Its nice to see how nervous I was to do my 1st instrument test with the G7/8, and to go back to using that instrument and seeing how easy it was compared to the other ones. It is so interesting to go back to the other instruments we learned near the beginning and compare it to the instruments we are learning closer to the end. Another learning experience in the classroom is going back to the basics in dental anatomy that I forgot about while working in assisting. It's interesting to re-learn and review components of the mouth that I forgot about.
Some key learning experiences from outside of the classroom has definitely been some problem solving with different group projects and study and time management strategies. It has made me realize that time is key, and that having a plan before the week starts is a good idea to make sure I can prioritize certain things and get assignments and homework done on time.