Identifying lateral thinkers amongst dental undergraduates through questions based on oral pathologies

Authors: Ananya Agrawala , Dr. Sanpreet Singh Sachdev , Dr. Tabita Joy Chettiankandy , Dr. Sandhya Naik , Mohammad Nemat Sache , Megha Chauhan

Pages: 52-57

Abstract:

Context: Lateral thinking implies utilizing existing knowledge to generate new ideas by restructuring existing information byusing one’s own creative and logical thinking capabilities. Development of novel solutions to existing dilemmas in the field ofmedical and dental sciences is need of the hour in which individuals with lateral thinking capability can play a major role. Thus,it is imperative to identify and motivate lateral thinkers in any field of work, which is even more so applicable in the medical anddental fields.Materials and Methods: A self-constructed questionnaire having 5 open ended questions based on oral pathologies wasprepared via Google Forms and circulated through online social media platforms to third year undergraduate dental students.The responses were scored and a scale was devised based on which the participant’s capability was categorized. The data wasthen subjected to statistical analysis by means of Chi square test and Student t-test.Results: 24.44% respondents potentially exhibited LT capability at least to some extent. Although statistically insignificant,there was an evident higher percentage of male lateral thinkers in all categories except for moderate level which had greaternumber of females.Conclusion: Every field has potential lateral thinkers but without proper nurturing, motivation and encouragement of ideas,they may encounter stagnation in the monotonous education system. Lateral thinkers are the light bearers of innovation andresearch. The continuously evolving fields of dentistry and medicine warrant the integration of policies and activities thatinculcate the habit of lateral thinking in students.