Sir, it was interesting to see how undergraduate orthodontic teaching has progressed since the early computer assisted learning (CAL) pioneers Professor Chris Stephens and Penny Grigg in the 1990s.1,2 Chris pioneered the use of computers not only in orthodontic teaching, but also early AI in treatment planning and teledentistry for orthodontic advice.3 But, way back then it was not known as blended learning, digital planning and remote consultation! It was nice to see confirmation of my own contribution into orthodontic teaching.4 When inspired and encouraged by Chris, some of us 'up north' undertook an RCT into CAL in orthodontic teaching using programs developed by Chris.
Chris Stephens was truly ahead of his time in promoting and developing computers in teaching into what is now 'the norm' and he should be recognised for his pioneering work.
References
Stephens C, Grigg P. A computer-based orthodontic learning package: report of a trial. Dent Update 1994; 21: 64-68.
Grigg P, Stephens C D. Computer-assisted learning in dentistry. A view from the UK. J Dent 1998; 26: 387-395
Stephens C D, Cook J. Attitudes of UK consultants to teledentistry as a means of providing orthodontic advice to dental practitioners and their patients. J Orthod 2002; 29: 137-142.
Hobson R S, Carter N E, Hall F A, Atkins M J. A study into the effectiveness of computer assisted learning in comparison with conventional seminar teaching of orthodontics. Eur J Dent Educ 1998; 2: 154-159.
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Hobson, R. Blended learning in teaching orthodontics. Br Dent J 228, 904–905 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41415-020-1805-2
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41415-020-1805-2
