The Evolving Role of Accreditation Bodies in the Digital Era of Dental Education
摘要
The digital era is redefining dental education, and with it, the role of accreditation bodies. This chapter explores how accreditation is evolving from traditional, episodic evaluations to dynamic, technology-driven oversight that ensures both educational excellence and professional readiness. It examines the foundational purpose of accreditation in dentistry, traces the historical development of accreditation frameworks, and highlights the transformative impact of digital technologies on teaching, learning, and assessment. Emerging challenges—such as validating simulation-based competencies, ensuring equity in digital education, and maintaining ethical standards—are critically analyzed. The chapter also presents a forward-looking, technology-responsive accreditation model that balances rigorous quality assurance with innovation, adaptability, and alignment with contemporary professional and societal expectations. Ultimately, it offers actionable insights for shaping accreditation systems that are fit for the future of dental education.