Enhancing Oral Histology Competency Through Laboratory- Based Education – A Study Among 1st Phase Undergraduate BDS Students at Sapporo Dental College and Hospital, Bangladesh

Open Access

Abstract

Background: Oral histology is one of the foundational subject in dental education. Traditional lecture-based methods may not adequately engage students or support the development of competencies. Laboratory-Based Education (LBE) offers hands-on learning, critical thinking, and enhanced retention. This study evaluated the effectiveness of LBE in improving oral histology competency among first-phase BDS students in Bangladesh. This study aimed to assess the impact of LBE on academic performance and student perceptions of oral histology. Methods & Materials: A quasi-experimental study was conducted among 69 first-phase Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) students at Sapporo Dental College and Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh, from September 2024–August 2025. Students completed pre- and post-tests (MCQs and SAQs) before and after the structured laboratory sessions. Perceptions were gathered using Likert-scale questionnaires and open-ended feedback. Data were analyzed using SPSS v25.0 with paired t-tests, confidence intervals, and Cohen’s d values. The qualitative data were subjected to thematic analysis. Results: Mean pre-test scores (47.8 ± 9.4) improved significantly in the post-test (68.3 ± 8.7), with a mean difference of 20.5 (95% CI: 18.2–22.8, p < 0.001; Cohen’s d = 2.26). Over 90% of the students reported improved understanding, engagement, and critical thinking. The thematic analysis highlighted enhanced visualization, peer learning, and better exam preparation as key benefits. Conclusion: LBE significantly enhanced oral histology competency and was strongly endorsed by the students. The findings support the integration of structured laboratory sessions into the Bangladeshi BDS curriculum to align with global standards and improve competency-based training.