Forensic education on 3-dimensional digital odontological analysis: Challenges in cross forensic science disciplinary teaching & learning Parekh Utsav1,*, Johnson Abraham2, Roy Jyotirmoy3, Gupta Sanjay4 1Assistant Professor, Department of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rajkot, Gujarat, India 2Assistant Professor, School of Medico-Legal Studies, National Forensic Sciences University, Gujarat, India 3Post-graduate Resident, Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Pathology and Microbiology, Guru Nanak Institute of Dental Sciences and Research, West Bengal, India 4Professor & Head, Department of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rajkot, Gujarat, India *Corresponding Author Dr. Utsav Parekh, Assistant Professor, Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, All india institute of medical science, Rajkot, Gujarat, Email: dr.utsav.parekh@gmail.com
Online published on 1 April, 2024. Abstract Forensic odontology is a specialized subject which is a perfect amalgamation of forensic sciences and dental sciences. The subject employs various traditional and advanced digital methods for education and analysis purposes. Advent of 3-Dimentional (3D) scanning and printing technologies have majorly influenced forensic odontology community. The technology allows replications of evidence matters in both the virtual and physical realm. It allows experimentation with the replica models for development of new analytical protocols. The ever increasing popularity of digital education is also playing a major role in the development of this highly specific doctrine of science. The digital education techniques allows wide spread collaboration for common cause of teaching and development of the subject. It allows sharing of study material and 3D model of evidential material to train students. Although digital techniques have major contributions in the development of forensic odontology, the limitations must also be understood. The major drawback is poor acceptability of the replica models as evidence for the investigation purpose. The technology itself is very technique sensitive and requires expensive initial investment. The digital education system lacks the academic integrity of the student which is generally observed in traditional classroom setup. This article aims to explain the major advantages and disadvantages of the digital education and technology which has been incorporated into forensic odontology having a huge impact on the judiciary system. Top Keywords Forensic Odontology, Digital Education, 3D Scanning, 3D Printing, Challenges. Top |