Curriculum considerations for correlating basic and clinical sciences

An analysis of the problem of curriculum design for correlating basic and clinical sciences is presented. The analysis identifies six ways a dentist can profit from the basic sciences: (1) increased sensitivity to the environment, (2) improved judgement, (3) better explanations to patients, (4) enhanced ability to learn, (5) improved communication with health professionals, and (6) greater role diversity. Literature is reviewed related to four mental processes underlying functional knowledge: attending, associating with past learning, relation to future situations, and practicing mental applications. Implications are made for the design of dental curricula and instructional techniques based on factors that influence the recall and use of knowledge.