Postgraduate Diploma in Endodontics

Purpose

The Postgraduate Diploma in Endodontics serves to consolidate and deepen the learner's professional expertise in Endodontics and to develop specialised capacity in the methodology and techniques in the diagnosis and treatment of patients in the public and private sectors and the understanding of research relevant to Endodontics. A sustained research project is not required but the qualification includes the understanding and reporting of research. The qualification aims to update and improve the clinical competence of working dentists in the field of Endodontics.

Rationale

Endodontics is not recognised as a field of specialty in South Africa. Therefore, working dentists are limited to where they can refer patients to in need of complicated treatment. General dentists with a special interest in Endodontics could increase their knowledge in the field and install advanced equipment to enable them to treat more complicated endodontic cases than other general dentists. The course will enable working dentists to undertake advanced reflection and development by means of a systematic survey of current thinking, practice and research methods in the chosen field of dentistry.

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

This is a professional qualification linked to a Professional Body (HPCSA). The RPL process will be subject to the rules of RPL attached to the Professional Body. The minimum requirement for acceptance into the qualification is an appropriate Bachelor's Degree allowing the candidate independent practice as a dentist as recognised by the HPCSA.

Entry Requirements

The minimum requirement is

• Bachelor of Dental Surgery, NQF Level 8.

Or

• A relevant qualification in the related field.

This qualification comprises of compulsory modules at Level 8 totalling at 120 Credits.

Compulsory Modules, Level 8, 120 Credits

• Endodontics 611, 60 Credits.
• Endodontics 612, 60 Credits.

1. Apply advanced theoretical principles of problem identification and solution in the Endodontics field and reflect critically on the application thereof.
2. Undertake advanced reflection and development by means of a systematic survey of current thinking, practice and research methods through the critique of literature in the field of Endodontics.
3. Explore and apply different learning strategies to acquire advanced multidisciplinary capabilities in the Endodontics field.
4. Communicate effectively orally and in writing by applying professional communication principles and reflecting critically on the application thereof in the Endodontics field.
5. Utilise appropriate technology effectively to solve complex problems in the Endodontics environment.
6. Integrate cognate disciplines to develop an advanced theoretical and practical understanding of the international and national business environment.
7. Practise acceptable social sensitivity in the relationship with others and work effectively in a team by reflecting critically on the implementation thereof.
8. Practise responsible citizenship through a holistic approach to the application of professional ethics and values in the Endodontics field.

The following Associated Assessment Criteria applies across all the Exit Level Outcomes

• Participate in discussions in order to demonstrate an adequate higher level of knowledge and skills in the field of endodontics.
• Assess in depth knowledge, interpretation and application in the field of endodontics and related subjects.
• Assess in depth knowledge, interpretation and application in the field of endodontics.
• Evaluate the scientific research report concerning the leaner's field of interest, in endodontics and related subjects.

Integrated Assessment

In line with the Institution's Assessment and Moderation Policy Formative and Summative Assessment will be used to monitor learner progress via the Continuous Assessment strategy. Learners will be given tasks, assignments, tests, presentations, clinical work portfolios, etc. to assess their understanding and progress in the various modules. Feedback will be provided to students to support their learning:

• Presentations for formative assessment of article interpretation, clinical treatment of patient cases and preclinical hands-on of advanced techniques and the use of advanced equipment.
• Evaluation of four written assignments. One of these assignments documents the clinical treatment of 15 patients. (Summative assessment).
• A three hour theoretical test assessing in depth knowledge, interpretation and application in the field of endodontics.
• Evaluation of the scientific research report - Literature review concerning the leaner's field of interest, in endodontics and related subjects.