ABSTRACTS SELECTED FOR PUBLICATION Evaluation of the Malmö-Model-Former Graduates' Perception.

The aim was to evaluate graduates' perception with a problem-based curriculum in dental education. We surveyed past graduates from the first five courses (graduated between 1994-1999) regarding their perception with the curriculum in Malmö. The survey included demographic data, questions targeted on their under-graduate education, questions on their professional practice and present support for competence development education. The graduates were asked to answer short questions and mark on a VAS ranging from ‘not at all’ (0) to ‘quite well’ (10). We used reply envelopes with real first-class stamps. Until now there were 110 responses (70% response rate). The great majority (92%) considered the education to prepare them well (above 6 on the VAS) for their profession. Over 90% rated their education higher than 6 on the VAS. The short answers on strengths and weaknesses of the education are presently being analysed. It was obvious that the level of professional satisfaction was high (90% of the answers being 6–10). Their answers on whether they could influence their present working situation were very spread, from not at all to quite well. The extent to which they can influence their own as well as their team's competence development was on the other hand rather high. Based on the results of this evaluation and of two other evaluations, which will also be elucidated, we conclude that the Malmö-model meets the needs of the dental professional well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]