Factors Affecting the Academic Performance of Dental Students

Abstract

Background: Dental students face unique challenges that can impact their academic performance. Factors that affect their academic success can range from personal factors such as motivation and time management to external factors such as the learning environment and curriculum. Understanding these factors can help educators and students create strategies to improve academic performance. Objective: This study aims to identify factors that are crucial for dental students’ academic performance in a dental school. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Settings: University College of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Lahore, Lahore Pakistan. Duration: Two months from September 2021 to November 2021. Methods: In November 2021, a questionnaire-based study was conducted at the University College of Medicine and Dentistry. Only undergraduate dental students were selected, while postgraduates and demonstrators were excluded. Results: A total of 138 dental students of all four years were included in our study, consisting of 41.3% males and 58.7% females. The majority of surveyed students were single, 95.6%.  Forty-five percent of high achievers were males, while 34% of males were low achievers. 55% of females were high achievers, and 66% of females were low achievers. Conclusion: Many factors crucial for the academic excellence of dental students were identified, such as limited use of social media, strong motivation for achieving higher goals, and isolated and conceptual study. However, new, more structured studies needed to reinforce these factors, as academic excellence cannot be verified by only one study.