Abstract:
This study was carried out to determine factors that affect the clinical performance of dental therapy students at the institute of health sciences in Gaborone. A quantitative descriptive research design with a cross-sectional survey was used with the aim of examining the factors affecting the clinical assessment of learners. A sample of 9 students were used to study. Attitudes were measured using a prepared questionnaire which was answered online. Two clinical assessment tools were used to assess the learners. One was a standard clinical tool used at the institution, another was a modified clinical assessment tool. The results of the t-test show there is no difference in clinical performance using standard and modified assessment tools. Pearson product-moment shows a strong association between theory and clinical performance in both tools as well as between learners attitude and clinical performance using both clinical assessment tools. Finally, the t-test results once again show that there is no difference in clinical performance of both male and female. Recommendations made by the researcher are that 1) the clinical assessment instruments need to be reviewed at least after a certain period of time,( 3 years is suggested because there are only three levels of study so it is essential that all students use the same tool, 2) the program needs to be improved, partnering with other international institutions can help make learners interested in the course hence change their attitude.
