Learning New Things

The more time passes, the more things I get to do around the office. I have been trained to use an autoclave sterilizer, observed the making of molds using alginate (pictured below), and observed the use of many different appliances.

Alginate + water mix

Finished alginate mold. The powder turns purple
when wet and returns to white as it dries.

Two of the appliances I got to see were TADS (temporary anchorage devices) and something called a Powerscope. The Powerscope is a device used to correct class II malocclusion (overbite) and it serves as a semi-permanent rubber band. The appliance attaches to the patient's wires and uses 260 grams of force (using the spring inside) to fix the bite. Supposedly the appliance also reduces treatment time and reduces costs.

So far, the appliances and the amazing things they do are the most interesting thing about orthodontics and there are so many more that I would like to learn about.

EQ

1. I reviewed the rule of three for writing an EQ.

2. Review the following EQs and tell us if each meets the rule of three and why they do or don't.

a) What is the most important factor in healthy weight loss?

The wording is clear, it provides a framework for studies and research, and the question is not a list of facts. However, this EQ does not completely follow the rule of three; the student should be more specific about the means by which a person would be losing weight. The most important factor could be different for daily exercise 

b) What is most important to securing a conviction in a criminal investigation?

This EQ does follow the rule of three; it  specific, allows the student to argue for his position, and is not a yes/no question.

c) What is most important in creating a hairstyle that best satisfies a customer?

 This EQ does not follow the rule of three. The question is too broad.

d) How can an anesthesiologist best treat chronic pain?

This EQ does not follow the rule of three. While the question mentions specific elements such as anesthesiologist and chronic pain, it seems too broad. At the same time it seems like the question limits research to just treatment options for chronic pain (which could be caused by a number of conditions).

3. Working EQ: What is the most important factor an orthodontist must consider when        
    treating a patient?

Lesson 1 Reflection

1. What are you most proud of in your Lesson 1 Presentation and why?

I am most proud of the way I presented. People seemed to be very attentive and engaged by my first lesson, and some of my peers have told me that they learned a few new things from what I had to say. It is very rewarding to know that I have effectively informed people about my topic.

2.  Questions to consider:

a. What assessment would you give yourself on your Lesson 1 Presentation (self-assessment)?

I would give myself a P on this presentation.

b. Explain why you deserve that grade using evidence from the Lesson 1 component contract. 

I met all of the requirements for "P" consideration and I believe I had no concerns with Professionalism or Justification of Foundation. It went so well, I can safely say I did a good job.

 3. What worked for you in Lesson 1?

Speaking loudly and clearly worked well. I was supposed to do that, anyway, but it really helped to keep the whole class's attention. Having many visuals was also great, since my audience got to see what I was talking about and hopefully understand it better. Visuals also kept me on track. I also feel it was helpful to be entertaining while trying to be as professional as possible. Getting the audience laughing here and there kept them interested in what I had to say; orthodontics can be pretty boring without jokes thrown in.

 4. If you had a time machine, what would you have done differently to improve your Lesson 1?

Toward the end of my presentation, I started to speak more quickly in the interest of time. Next time (or if I could do it again), I would definitely slow down so I don't lose my audience in my haste.