Community-Based Dental Education at the University of Illinois at Chicago

Since 2002, community-based education at the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry (COD) has evolved from non-existent to a robust program that is an essential component of the predoctoral program. As part of the college’s curricular innovation, community-based education has demonstrated alignment of the COD’s mission with that of our parent institution, contributed significantly to student learning and preparedness, and enhanced clinic experiences and revenue. Student interest and support have been and continue to be enthusiastic and valued. The faculty has been generally supportive, but properly focused on demonstrated student learning outcomes. This faculty observation and evaluation, supported by evidence, has resulted in the faculty’s rethinking traditional teaching and learning strategies, allowing innovative educational changes.