Journal of Orthodontics, Vol. 29, No. 2, 151,
June 2002
© 2002 British Orthodontic Society
A Practical Guide for Medical Teachers
J. A. Dent and R. M. Harden (Eds) Churchill Livingstone, 2001 453 pp., Paperback, £34.95 ISBN 0 443 06273 0
R. G. Oliver
The title of this excellent book uses ‘Medical’ in the broadest possible sense, as the information contained within the book is generic to all healthcare teachers. It is a multi-author book, with the majority of the contributors based in Dundee, but there are contributions from the University of Sydney, the Gulf University (Bahrain), the University of Ottawa, and, more locally, the Universities of London and Wales.
The book is divided into seven sections, each with four or five chapters. The layout of the book is easy on the eye, with two-thirds of the page for text, and the remaining third reserved for pertinent quotations, diagrams, and key learning points. It is clear from reading the text that the authors have a strong practical background in their particular areas and, whilst passing on theoretical educational concepts, they do not let these dominate. Each of the 39 chapters concludes with references and further reading, and there is an Appendix with a list of useful websites.
This book would be useful for anyone considering change to any part of their course, providing helpful guidance on how to achieve change, and providing a range of alternative strategies with an evaluation of each. It can also benefit the teacher who wants to improve her or his knowledge and understanding of the topic, and should be recommended reading for newcomers to academia.
