Indiana University School of
Dentistry has a long tradition of community service and involvement with dental
public health. Historically, the Department of Oral Biology directed dental
public health programs. More
recently, in July 2001, the Division of Community of Dentistry was created
within the Department of Preventive and Community Dentistry and was given the
responsibility of expanding educational and research programs and integrating
community service and dental public health activities into a service-learning
methodology.
IUSD is an integral part of the
community, so it is appropriate and natural for the school to interact with its
neighbors and to strive to be a good citizen.
IUSD is aware of the need to share its expertise with the community—but
it is increasingly aware that the diversity of the population in Indiana has a
wealth of information to teach dental professionals.
The community offers opportunities for students and faculty to learn
about the characteristics, health practices and health needs of people from
specific populations, with various disabilities, and of differing age group and
cultures.
Community service, when linked with
educational objectives:
- Enhances the standard curriculum by extending learning beyond the lecture hall
- Fosters civic and social responsibility
- Allows students to apply what they have learned to real world situations
- Identifies and attempts to meet community needs
Agencies, institutions or individuals
interested in discussing developing service-learning programs in cooperation
with IUSD are invited to contact the Division
Director.
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