The rapid development of medical technology requires higher education institutions to continuously adapt and remain responsive. In response to this challenge, the Faculty of Dentistry (FKG) at Universitas Gadjah Mada organized a Curriculum Reconstruction Workshop for the Undergraduate Dentistry Program on Friday (22/5/2026). The forum became a platform for academics to update teaching methods in line with current needs. The new curriculum is expected to produce future dentists who are capable of utilizing digital technology, clinically competent, and mentally resilient.
The Dean of FKG UGM, Prof. drg. Suryono, S.H., M.M., Ph.D., emphasized the urgency of transforming teaching methods by moving away from conventional approaches. The presence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has brought high efficiency to today’s educational dynamics. Educators must position and utilize this technology wisely as a supporting tool. Beyond scientific competence, Dean Suryono also reminded faculty members to prioritize students’ psychological resilience amid the demanding academic workload.
“Education must monitor students’ mental conditions to prevent severe stress or depression. Educators are obliged to incorporate character-building values into teaching so students become individuals with strong character,” stressed Dean Suryono.
In line with this direction, the curriculum reconstruction process also explored technical details regarding technology implementation in classrooms. dr. Dian Kesumapramudya Nurputra, M.Sc., Ph.D., Sp.A., a speaker from UGM’s Department of Pediatrics, presented strategies for utilizing artificial intelligence within the learning ecosystem. He highlighted the changing competency standards that graduates must now fulfill.
“Dental students are now required to evaluate and validate AI-generated diagnostic results, replacing the old learning system that relied heavily on memorization,” said dr. Dian.
To support these competency targets, the faculty may implement Case-Based Learning methods starting from the first semester. Students can use AI as a personal tutor to study topics such as anatomy and biochemistry clinical cases. Meanwhile, students in later semesters often tend to forget material learned during the early years.
“To address this issue, FKG UGM can adopt the Spaced Repetition System (SRS). Spaced Repetition System (SRS) is basically a method that schedules material review at specific intervals,” added dr. Dian.
Academic evaluation systems were also discussed. Lecturers were advised to reduce the frequency of multiple-choice examinations because AI can easily solve them. Instead, lecturers can directly assess students’ performance and understanding through oral examinations and clinical practice observations in the field.
This redesign initiative demonstrates FKG UGM’s commitment to responding to technological advancements without neglecting medical ethics and student character development. The curriculum currently being developed will serve as the faculty’s roadmap. It is expected that future FKG UGM graduates will be prepared to face the era of digital dentistry with high competence, strong mental resilience, and full adherence to professional ethical standards.
Author: Fajar Budi
Photo: Fajar Budi, Harta Utama
