A Comparison of Dental Education Between University of Toronto and Zhejiang University During COVID-19 Pandemic

Background: To compare the contingency modifications to the dental education between the University of Toronto Faculty of Dentistry and the Zhejiang University School of Stomatology during COVID-19 pandemic, and to share experiences in keeping the dental academic continuity, resuming practicing activities and preparing the faculty and students for a new normality. Three approaches were adopted to collect information and data: online interviews and email-contact with the instructors and the deans, a small-scale online survey of dental students, and official online announcements of various authorities. Results: The two universities shared similarity in changing trends, while differed in details. The delivery of lectures, seminars and exams was transitioned from in-person mode to online mode and has proceeded effectively and efficiently. The pre-clinical lab training and clinical rotation were the most retarded parts and will not be resumed until the settle-down of the pandemic. Research activities have been kept on at the best possible level. Since the Zhejiang University reopened the campus in May 2020, clinical activities and research works were in recovery with a cautiously-planned and gradual phased approach. Conclusion: Both universities have been trying their best to meet the academic needs of students while protect their health, and to keep alert to the real time epidemic situation in preparation for resumption. Dental institutions could take the COVID-19 pandemic as an opportunity to armor dental students with infection control measures prior to their reengagement into clinical practice. There is a need of a new normality for global dental education that spans time and space.