17 February 2025
Threesna Sharfina
As part of its ongoing efforts to improve the quality of education, the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Sumatera Utara (FKG USU) organized a Faculty Development Workshop to enhance the teaching competencies of its academic staff. The event featured two nationally recognized experts in medical education: dr. Hemma Yulfi, DAP&E., MMedEd, and drg. Sri Asih Gahayu, M.Kes., Ph.D.
Held at [event location, e.g., the FKG USU Auditorium], the workshop was attended by dozens of lecturers from various departments within FKG USU. It formed part of a broader strategy to build faculty capacity in response to the evolving landscape of dental education, particularly in the era of technology-based learning and student-centered approaches.
In her opening remarks, Dean of FKG USU, Dr. drg. Essie Octiara, Sp.KGA., Subsp.PKOA(K), emphasized the essential role of lecturers in creating an adaptive, effective, and relevant learning atmosphere. “We hope this workshop provides new insights and skills for our lecturers to develop more interactive and innovative teaching methods. This is part of FKG USU’s commitment to delivering high-quality education responsive to global challenges and student needs,” she said.
During the workshop, dr. Hemma Yulfi presented the latest approaches to technology-enhanced medical education, including online learning strategies, digital media use, and effective blended learning models for dental students.
Meanwhile, drg. Sri Asih Gahayu delivered a session on holistic learning assessment, covering assessment planning, grading rubrics, and the importance of constructive feedback to foster comprehensive student understanding and development.
The workshop was not merely theoretical; it also featured interactive discussions and hands-on sessions where participants applied new methods, exchanged experiences, and received direct guidance from the experts. Participant enthusiasm was evident throughout the event. Many expressed appreciation for the practical and insightful content and the opportunity for in-depth dialogue on teaching challenges and solutions.
“The material was highly applicable and broadened our perspective as educators. We can immediately implement many things in our daily teaching,” said one of the workshop participants.
This workshop is part of FKG USU’s commitment to ongoing educational transformation, not only in curriculum design but also in enhancing the capacity of its educators as key drivers of teaching quality. Through such initiatives, FKG USU continues to foster a dynamic, inclusive, and innovation-driven academic environment. Moving forward, FKG USU will continue developing programs to strengthen teaching competencies, aiming to produce graduates who are both academically proficient and competitive at national and global levels.
