Technology-mediated education: a possible approach in times of pandemic
COVID-19; E-learning; Telehealth; Technology; Artificial Intelligence
This work is the result of the unique scenario experienced by humanity, led by the COVID-19 pandemic, in addition to the unprecedented technological expansion, which was aimed at mitigating the consequences of social isolation. With the objective of investigating changes arising from mobility restrictions, both in educational and health areas, and identifying which technological tools could be solutions in this context, this thesis includes a study on the impact of COVID-19 on postgraduate education in oral and maxillofacial surgery in a Brazilian hospital, a systematic review of the dentistry teaching panorama combined with the technological resources used for its maintenance during the beginning of the pandemic, and a text and opinion review on the challenges and advantages of inserting artificial intelligence in radiology teaching. In addition, a work about the creation of a prototype of a mobile application with the purpose of helping students and patients remotely was developed. Finally, a systematic review focused on the use of radiomics (a new technology used in diagnostic imaging based on artificial intelligence) in pathologic bone alterations of the jaws was published. As a subtopic, an integrative review reporting the role of teledentistry in the care of patients with oral cancer during the pandemic and a systematic review on the satisfaction, adherence and quality of life of patients with head and neck cancer using remote assistance tools were developed. Finally, an overview to verify the performance of the use of artificial intelligence for early identification and diagnosis of malignant tumors was conducted. The whole context points to the importance of expanding and intensifying the use of technological tools in health care, as well as to the wider adoption of the hybrid model of education. Besides optimizing time and resources, it encourages critical thinking, the ability to solve problems and the central role of the student in the learning process and the patient in the self-care process. For this reason, the desire to improve the digital infrastructure and encourage equity is legitimate. The future of technologies in the educational field is promising, as it encompasses humanistic approaches with a focus on accessibility, personalization and efficiency.