Preclinical Dental Hygiene Syllabus for 2026-2027
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Instructor Information

Course Information

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Title IX and Sexual Misconduct Reporting

Amarillo College prohibits discrimination and harassment based on sex, including sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking, under Title IX and Texas Education Code §51.253–255. Faculty and staff are mandatory reporters and must share any related concerns with the Title IX Coordinator at titleix@actx.edu. Reports and additional information are available at https://www.actx.edu/hr/title-ixtitle-ix. Confidential counseling and advocacy services are available through the Counseling Center and Advocacy & Resource Center.

Recording Policy

Disability Statement

If you have a disability (learning, mental, physical) that affects your ability to participate effectively and have access to any program or service at Amarillo College please contact Disability Services at (806) 345-5639 . Our offices are located in the Enrollment Center, Suite 700. More information may be found at www.actx.edu/disability.
Disability Services facilitates access to all programs and services according to the ADA, Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, as well as other federal and state laws.

Amarillo College Web Accessibility Policy Statement

Amarillo College is committed to providing equal access to all programs and services, including all working, learning, and service environments that affect equal access for persons with disabilities. This commitment to provide equal access and opportunity for persons with disabilities is in compliance with federal and state law. Amarillo College also strives to provide Electronic and Information Resources (EIR) that are accessible to all authorized users.

If you find you are unable to access material in an accessible format please contact the Disability Services Office at (806) 345-5639 . This office will work in conjunction with other campus resources to address and accommodate your issue in a timely manner.

Statement for Mental Health and Advocacy & Resource Center:

As a student you may experience a range of issues that can cause barriers to learning, such as strained relationships, increased anxiety, alcohol/drug problems, feeling down, difficulty concentrating and/or lack of motivation. These mental health concerns or stressful events may lead to diminished academic performance or reduce a student's ability to participate in daily activities. Amarillo College offers services to assist you with addressing these and other concerns you may be experiencing. If you or someone you know are suffering from any of the aforementioned conditions, you can learn more about the broad range of confidential mental health services available on campus by calling the AC Counseling Center at 806-371-5900. The AC Counseling Center website is https://www.actx.edu/counseling/ . Also, if you are in need of social services (affordable housing, utilities, transportation, food, clothing, childcare, medical/dental/vision, legal), please call the AC Advocacy & Resource Center at 806-371-5439. The AC Advocacy & Resource Center website is https://www.actx.edu/arc

Amarillo College Tutoring for Success Policy:

Tutoring for Success applies to any student whose overall performance in the course falls below 75%. The instructor will create the task in the Student Engagement Portal (Watermark) to direct the student to the appropriate tutoring service, which may be faculty- or SI-led, discipline-specific, and/or general. The tutoring service assigned, the due date for when the tutoring must be completed, and the amount of tutoring required are at the discretion of the instructor. Additionally, the task will alert the student’s success team. Students who do not fulfill the assigned tutoring task may be subject to program- and course-specific penalties that could result in a grade reduction and/or in not being allowed to progress in the course until the tutoring requirement has been satisfied.

Administrative Drop Policy

Students who do not attend class on or prior to the census date will be administratively dropped. Effective Fall, 2016

Student Withdrawal Procedures

Students who wish to withdraw from a course must complete all steps indicated on the Academic Withdrawal Request form by the course withdrawal deadline.

NOTE: Students who are attending Texas institutions of higher education, for the first time fall 2007 and later, may not withdraw from more than six courses during their academic career. This withdrawal limitation does not include dual credit or developmental classes (Senate Bill 1231 Rule 4.10.) For more information on Drop and Withdrawal Policies, please visit the Registrar's Office Web site.

Privacy Statement

The Amarillo College Privacy Policy is found at https://www.actx.edu/-amarillo-college-privacy-notice , and applies to all Amarillo College students.  If you have questions about this privacy statement or you believe that your personal information has been released without your consent, send email to humanresources@actx.edu .

Statement on State-Authorized Courses at Amarillo College

For-credit academic and workforce education courses offered at Amarillo College are limited to the course options available in the statewide inventory for two-year public institutions. Courses in the state-authorized lower-division Academic Course Guide Manual and Workforce Education Course Manual have specific descriptions that prescribe course content and may include specific student learning outcomes. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) maintains and regularly updates these manuals. Amarillo College faculty and leaders ensure that these courses are aligned with THECB guidelines and evaluated based on student performance outcomes. Students enrolled in these courses are expected to engage with and learn course content. According to the AC Board of Regents Policy Manual, "faculty members are entitled to academic freedom in the conduct of research and teaching and are tasked with the associated responsibilities" (DGC). Students are entitled to academic freedom in the classroom, as well, and faculty "must not attempt to force on students a personal viewpoint and must at all times allow diversity of opinion" (Amarillo College Academic Affairs Manual).

Course

DHYG-1331-001 Preclinical Dental Hygiene

Prerequisites

Course Description

Foundational knowledge for performing clinical skills on patients with emphasis on procedures and rationale for performing dental hygiene care. Introduction to ethical principles as they apply to dental hygiene care.

Student Resources Student Resources Website

Department Expectations

Occupational License Disclaimer

Notice to Students enrolled in an educational program for preparation of issuance of certain occupational licenses:

Students enrolled in an educational program in preparation for obtaining certain occupational licenses are potentially ineligible for such license if the student has been convicted of an offense. For further information, please contact:

Melodie Graves
Justice Involved Advocate
Student Service Center 117
mgraves24@actx.edu
806-371-5995
Make appointment at https://melodiegraves.youcanbook.me

Hours

(3 sem hrs 1 lec 7 lab)

Class Type

On Campus Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

Students are required to have the most current edition of textbooks

• Fundamentals of Periodontal Instrumentation and Advanced Root Instrumentation, Jill Neild-Gehrig; Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins, 9th Edition. (Available in Hard Copy Text)
• Wilkins' Clinical Practice of the Dental Hygienist, 14th Edition, Linda D. Boyd, Lisa F. Mallonee, and Charlotte J. Wyche, Jones and Bartlett Publisher
• Health Professional and Patient Interaction, Ruth Purtilo, Amy Haddad, Regina Doherty; Elsevier, Saunders Publisher (Available in E-book or Hard Copy Text)
• Ethical Dimensions in the Health Professions, Ruth B. Purtilo, Regina F. Doherty; Elsevier, Saunders Publisher (Available in E-book or Hard Copy Text)
• Medical Emergencies in the Dental Office, Stanley F. Malamed, 8th Edition; Elsevier, Saunders Publisher (Available in E-book or Hard Copy Text)
• DH NOTES: Dental Hygienists Pocket Guide 2nd Edition, Renee Prajer, Gwen Grosso; FA Davis
• Amarillo College Dental Hygiene Program Handbook and Clinic Manual will be available to you on Blackboard.
• Darby’s Comprehensive Review of Dental Hygiene, 9th Edition by Christine M Blue, BSDH, MS, DHSc

Teaching Methods:

A variety of teaching methods will be used to facilitate the goals and objectives of this course.    We will be utilizing blackboard “Content” for our lecture/lab sessions.  Students will be required to take a pre-test on the lab content prior to lab sessions.  This will allow for collaborative learning in the lab setting.  Collaborative learning is based on four principles where the learner or student is the primary focus of instruction, interaction and "doing" are of primary importance, working in groups is an important mode of learning, and structured approaches to developing solutions to real-world problems should be incorporated into learning. This learning style will be incorporated into our preclinical lab setting.  The lab sessions will be divided into teams that will rotate every five weeks with new groups and new instructors. (4-5 Students to 1 Instructor)  Instrumentation techniques will be taught on dental manikins and student partner activities.  The lecture component of this course will be taught in a collaborative way to incorporate different learning styles.  We will work in groups and with partners, often with some traditional lecture format.  All material will be posted on Blackboard to support classroom and laboratory activities: PowerPoint, Videos, Demonstration of Instruments, and Demonstration of Skills.  Research shows that educational experiences that are active, social, contextual, engaging, and student-owned lead to deeper learning. The benefits of collaborative learning include:

• Development of higher-level thinking, oral communication, self-management, and leadership skills.
• Promotion of student-faculty interaction.
• Increase in student retention, self-esteem, and responsibility.
• Exposure to and an increase in understanding of diverse perspectives.
• Preparation for real-life social and employment situations.

Supplies

Technical Skills and Requirements

Students will need access to a laptop, computer, or tablet for quizzes, tests, and assignments.

Students are required to have regular, reliable access to a stable internet connection. 

Students need to be proficient in sending and receiving emails with attachments, uploading documents, and participating in discussion boards.

Computers can break, servers can crash, and electric power can go out. It is your responsibility to identify solutions for unexpected catastrophes by thinking ahead about solutions to potential problems. Possible solutions for each of the above scenarios include using a friend or relative's computer and accessing a computer in one of the computer labs on campus. Students will be responsible for bringing their tablets or laptops to every class session. Please have the battery charged up and ready to go. Students will need to ensure that the Respondus Lockdown Browser has been installed on the computer.

Utilize CTL resources for technical help. CTL Student Help Center: (806) 371-5992 or ctlstudenthelp@actx.edu

Other Supplies

1. Library Card for AC and/or city library
2. Computer and Internet Access, Printer, Print Cartridges
3. Index cards, Paper, Pens, Markers
4. Additional Materials as Needed

Student Performance

Course Meeting Days and Times

Lecture:         Wednesdays - 8:30-9:30 am  (Jones Hall, Room 110)

Laboratory:    Tuesdays and Thursdays 12:00 - 3:30 (Jones Hall, Room 110, Dental Lab Rm 136, or Dental Clinic Rm 112)

Additional Clinic Lab Instructors

• Carli Ogburn, RDH, BSDH
• Ashlie Lang RDH, MS
• Kara Webb RDH, BS
• Lacey Briscoe RDH, BS
• Misty Brown, RDH

Changes to the Syllabus and the Course

The instructor reserves the right to make changes to the Syllabus and the course as deemed necessary. Any and all changes will be posted on Blackboard Announcements page of the course and students will also be notified by email.

Course Description

Foundational knowledge for performing clinical skills on patients with emphasis on procedures and rationale for performing dental hygiene care. Introduction to ethical principles as they apply to dental hygiene care. (3 semester hours; 1 lecture; 7 lab)

End-of-Course Outcomes

Explain the procedures and the rationale for dental hygiene care; demonstrate basic dental hygiene instrumentation skills; and define ethical principles related to dental hygiene care.

Competency-to-Evaluation Mapping Matrix

The AC Dental Hygiene Program has clearly defined graduation competencies that establish the expected knowledge, skills, and professional behaviors students must demonstrate upon program completion. These competencies guide curriculum development and form the basis for instruction and assessment throughout the program.

Each course in the curriculum contributes to the development of these competencies. Learning activities are structured to progressively build knowledge and skill toward entry-level dental hygiene practice. Evaluation methods vary across courses and may include written exams, laboratory or clinical skill assessments, case-based evaluations, reflective writing, and formal competency testing.

This course evaluates the following graduation competencies:

• Program Competency #2: Recognize medical and dental conditions requiring special precautions or considerations before dental hygiene treatment.
  • Measurement Method:
    • Medical History Assignment
• Program Competency #8: Demonstrate professionalism and self-responsibility and adhere to an ethical code of conduct.
  • Measurement Methods:
    • Chapter Assessments: Ethics and Professionalism
• Program Competency #9: Participate in required remediation and demonstrate competence through skill evaluations.
  • Measurement Method:
    • Instrument Practicum – Typodont (Skill Evaluation)

Course Overview

DHYG 1331 is a course designed to teach the sequence and procedures that are followed to perform preventive dental prophylaxis.  Areas of study will focus on the role of the dental hygienist, diseases of importance, management of medical emergencies, infection control, dental hygiene instrumentation, use of equipment, techniques of positioning, and preventive measures to teach the patient.  Module and chapter learning objectives and goals will be found in the student workbook and text and at the beginning of each week in Blackboard as well as in the syllabus.  The learning objectives and goals will coordinate with the materials presented in lectures, handouts, reading assignments, online assignments, videos, workbook exercises, quizzes, examinations, and laboratory practicals. 

Instructor Objectives for the Course

Chapter objectives will coordinate with the materials presented in lectures, handouts, videos, active learning, reading assignments, and examinations.  Learning the objectives will be required of the student in order to be successful in the completion of the written and practical examinations and in laboratory exercises. Given the course textbooks, personal notes, handouts, and other course materials, the student should

1.  Learn the terminology, facts, theories, methods, and principles associated with Dental Hygiene as outlined in the daily objectives and in the course schedule.
2. Apply the knowledge learned to a laboratory simulation or clinical patient.
3. Evaluate the learning experiences as measured by the course objectives.

The student will know that these goals have been successfully completed if, after evaluation by the course instructor, a minimum grade of 75 or greater is earned.  This will demonstrate Mastery Level.

Course Objectives and Learning Outcomes for Pre-clinic Theory and Lab

Course Objectives 

• Develop proficiency in correct positioning, mirror use, grasp, and finger rests during periodontal instrumentation.
• Acquire the necessary motor skills to perform accurate and effective periodontal procedures.
• Understand the significance of proper positioning, mirror use, grasp, and finger rests for patient and clinician safety.
• Recognize the relationship between motor skills, such as positioning and finger rests, and their step-by-step implementation.
• Master the use of calibrated periodontal probes, their design features, and correct probing technique.
• Demonstrate expertise in identifying design elements of periodontal instruments and understanding their functions.
• Acquire competence in various techniques of movement and orientation for effective periodontal instrumentation.
• Learn to adapt working-ends to tooth surfaces correctly and perform different types of instrumentation strokes.
• Understand the importance of subgingival calculus removal, including insertion, angulation, and adaptation.
• Develop proficiency in the use of explorers, sickle scalers, universal curets, and area-specific curets.
• Familiarize with air polishing for biofilm management and stain removal, as well as powered instrumentation.

Course Goals

• Develop proficiency in periodontal instrumentation techniques.
• Understand the importance of proper positioning, grasp, and finger rests.
• Integrate visual cues and motor skills for effective adaptation and angulation.
• Prioritize patient safety through correct instrumentation techniques.
• Learn to select and use appropriate instruments based on design characteristics.
• Emphasize patient needs in all aspects of treatment, promoting patient-centered care.
• Uphold ethical and professional behavior, respecting patients' values and maintaining dignity.
• Recognize the significance of cultural diversity and integrate it into patient interactions.
• Equip students with foundational knowledge required for ethical and professional conduct.
• Familiarize students with advanced techniques such as air polishing and powered instrumentation.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, students should be able to:

• Demonstrate correct positioning, mirror use, grasp, and finger rests for safe and effective periodontal instrumentation.
• Apply appropriate motor skills to access mandibular and maxillary posterior sextants with optimal vision and neutral positioning.
• Utilize calibrated periodontal probes for correct probing technique, adaptation, and accurate depth determination.
• Identify design characteristics of periodontal instruments, including handles, shanks, and working-ends.
• Perform various movement and orientation techniques for precise periodontal instrumentation strokes.
• Adapt working-ends correctly to tooth surfaces, demonstrating competency in different instrumentation strokes.
• Execute effective subgingival calculus removal with proper insertion, angulation, and adaptation.
• Employ explorers, sickle scalers, universal curets, and area-specific curets proficiently in anterior and posterior regions.
• Apply principles of air polishing for both supra- and subgingival biofilm management and stain removal.
• Demonstrate understanding of powered instrumentation technology and its various applications.
• Exhibit ethical and professional behavior, respecting patients' values and maintaining patient-centered care.

Students Rights and Responsibilities

Log in using the AC Connect Portal

In order to receive your AC Connect Email, you must log in through AC Connect at https://acconnect.actx.edu .

If you are an active staff or faculty member according to Human Resources, use "Exchange". All other students, use "AC Connect (Google) Email".

Expected Student Behavior

The Amarillo College Dental Hygiene Program has specific policies which apply to student conduct within the program. These policies may be implied or written The course syllabi and the program manual are sources for specific student conduct policies for dental hygiene student at Amarillo College.

Professional Standards

All dental hygiene students are expected to demonstrate professionalism in behavior, manner, and judgment while in the dental hygiene program. The area of professionalism includes appearance, asepsis, patient management, peer, faculty, and staff interaction, and documentation. Guidelines for professionalism and professional appearances are discussed in the Amarillo College Dental Hygiene Program Manual.  Professionalism will be evaluated on a continual basis throughout the program.

Students will exhibit professional maturity and an acceptable level of clinical judgment as determined by the clinical faculty. Unprofessional behavior will be documented in written form by the faculty to the Program Director Unprofessional behavior may be defined as a continual pattern of misconduct and/or an egregious act that endangers the health of the patients, students, faculty, and/or College. Egregious acts also include violations of the Texas Dental Hygiene Practice Act and falsification of patient records and/or faculty signatures. Documentation may also include reporting via the Amarillo College Student Behavior Alert form with the college.

Students must be competent in applying the principles of ethical reasoning, ethical decision-making, and professional responsibility as they pertain to patient care. Dental hygienists should understand and practice ethical behavior consistent with the professional code of ethics throughout their educational experiences. Below are representative examples of professional standards which are not inclusive:

• Students are concerned with excellence in learning rather than just meeting minimal criteria.
• Students maintain composure, dealing with conflict in a constructive way.
• Students exhibit an attitude of respect for classmates, faculty, and staff. 
• If a student has a conflict with a grade given by the instructor, the student must follow the outlined grievance procedure. 
• Faculty will not change a grade given to a student from another faculty member.

Safety: Individual Responsibility

This course supports Amarillo College policies regarding responsibility for a safe environment.

Amarillo College complies with environmental, health, and safety regulations, and therefore requires that all AC employees, students, and visitors comply to maintain a safe environment:

• Report hazardous conditions and safety concerns immediately to their supervisors, instructors, staff, and emergency management personnel, as appropriate.
• Abide by safe practices and procedures established by the College.
• Adhere to and cooperate fully with all local, state, and federal regulations concerning environmental, health, and safety issues. 
• Take action to resolve safe workplace issues when appropriate.

Statement of Confidentiality

Confidentiality is the duty owed by dental hygiene professionals, including students enrolled in Dental Hygiene accredited programs, to protect the privacy of ALL patient information.  Dental Hygiene professionals clearly have an obligation to keep MEDICAL and PERSONAL information about patients in the strictest confidence at all times.  Unless disclosure is mandated by patient consent, statute, a duty to inform third parties, or special circumstances, dental hygiene professionals have a clear duty to maintain the confidentiality of ALL patient information.

Breach of duty to hold such information in the strictest confidence may cause liability for the individual student such as fines, imprisonment, and dismissal from the program. The American Dental Hygienists' Association has published the following statement which all dental hygiene professionals (including students) must always follow the "Code of Ethics"

"We respect the confidentiality of client information and relationships as a demonstration of the value we place on individual autonomy.  We acknowledge our obligation to justify any violation of confidence."

Instructor Help and Student Participation

• You must seek faculty input regarding your performance so that you may:
  • Gain confidence in your performance
  • Identify problem areas and determine methods for correcting deficiencies
  • Attain competency in your clinical skills
• All students are considered mature enough to seek faculty assistance and to monitor their progress.
• All students are expected to meet with the Clinic Coordinator if you have any questions or difficulties in this course.  The faculty is committed to supporting your success; please remember that you are the only person who can make us aware that you need assistance.

Advising

• Advising each semester with the Program Director is designed to provide guidance, support, and clear expectations for students and instructors. These policies ensure that students make informed decisions about their academic and professional goals while progressing successfully through the program.
• Mandatory advising sessions help track students' progress, identify potential issues, provide timely support and guidance, and assist students with any barriers that have presented in their process. Clinical experiences will be reviewed, as well as academic progress. Documentation of this session will be kept in the student record, including referrals to appropriate support services, such as tutoring or counseling. 
• Attendance at an advising session with the Program Director during the middle of each course is mandatory. The Program Director will determine the timing of the session and send you an email invitation. It's essential to either confirm your attendance by accepting the invitation or provide a valid reason if you're unable to attend. To make the most of the advising session, you can prepare by:
  • Compiling a list of inquiries you might have.
  • Establishing daily and weekly objectives for advancing through the program.
  • Evaluating your progress toward these objectives.
  • Identifying any obstacles hindering your goal achievement.

Notably, failure to uphold these appointments will result in a deduction of two points from your final clinical course grade for every instance during the semester.

Mentoring

Clinical instructors play a crucial role in providing mentorship, guidance, and hands-on training to dental hygiene students. They bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, helping students develop the skills and competencies required to become successful dental hygienists.

The essential roles and responsibilities of mentoring:

• Supervision and Guidance: Oversee students' practical experiences in dental hygiene clinics.
• Skill Development: Teach instrumentation, dental procedures, radiography, patient assessment, and hygiene techniques.
• Patient Interaction: Instruct students on effective communication and patient interaction skills.
• Critical Thinking: Encourage students to make decisions based on patient assessments and treatment plans.
• Ethics and Professionalism: Instill professionalism, ethics, and infection control practices.
• Problem-Solving: Challenge students with real-world dental cases to enhance problem-solving abilities.
• Feedback and Evaluation: Provide constructive feedback on clinical performance and set improvement goals.
• Adaptation to Changes: Keep students updated on industry trends and evolving dental practices.
• Student Support: Offer emotional support and guidance throughout the educational journey.
• Role Modeling: Demonstrate professionalism, technical skills, and patient-centered care.

Overall, clinical instructors in a dental hygiene program play a vital role in shaping the future dental hygienists' clinical skills, professionalism, and overall patient care abilities. They contribute to the education and development of well-rounded and competent dental hygiene professionals.

Assigning clinic instructors as mentors to students in a dental hygiene program is a vital process that contributes to student success and growth. At the beginning of each semester, students will be assigned a new clinic instructor mentor. This consistent practice ensures that students benefit from diverse perspectives and guidance throughout their program.

Email Instructions for Scheduling a Mentor Meeting:

• Express that you'd like to schedule a meeting to discuss progress, seek advice, or address questions.
• Offer a selection of dates and times for the meeting.
• Ensure your proposed times consider both your availability and your mentor's office hours.
• Flexibility increases the chances of finding a suitable time.
• Politely request confirmation of the meeting time and convey appreciation for their time and guidance.

By following these steps, you'll effectively request a mentor meeting through email while being clear, respectful, and considerate of your mentor's schedule.

Mandatory Classroom Remediation Policy

To support student success and ensure mastery of course material, any student scoring below 75% on a test (excluding the final exam) must complete a remediation process.

Within seven (7) calendar days of receiving the grade, the student must schedule and attend a tutoring session with the program tutor. The course instructor will provide a targeted remediation assignment by email.

The remediation assignment must be completed and submitted to the instructor before the next scheduled test. Failure to complete any part of the remediation process including timely tutoring and assignment submission will result in a 10% deduction from the total possible points on the next test. 

Repeated non-compliance within a semester will result in a meeting with the Program Director and may lead to further academic action. This policy is designed to provide timely support and promote ongoing success in the Dental Hygiene Program.

Mandatory Clinical Remediation Policy

To support student success in the clinical environment and strengthen competency in essential skills, any student who scores below 75% on a clinical evaluation, such as a patient care experience, radiograph assessment, process evaluation, mock board, or skills-based assessment, will be required to complete a mandatory clinical remediation assignment. You will receive an email notification outlining your remediation plan, required steps, and the deadline for completion.

Policy Guidelines:

• Students must schedule a meeting with their clinical instructor to review performance and identify areas for improvement.
• A targeted remediation plan will be assigned during the meeting, which may include practice sessions, written reflections, or additional assessments.
• Completion of the remediation assignment is required by the deadline given. Failure to complete the assignment on time will result in a grade of zero, and clinical privileges may be revoked until the assignment is satisfactorily completed.

This policy ensures early support, reinforces critical clinical competencies, and promotes safe and effective patient care.

Program Resources
As a student in the Amarillo College Dental Hygiene Program, you are expected to be familiar with and refer to the Clinic Manual, Program Handbook, and the Appendix to the Clinic Manual throughout your clinical education.

• The Clinic Manual outlines all clinic policies, procedures, scheduling protocols, grading criteria, and expectations related to patient care, infection control, radiology, and medical management.
• The Program Handbook includes academic and professional expectations, ethical standards, student responsibilities, remediation policies, and graduation/licensure requirements.
• The Appendix provides detailed rubrics, forms, and evaluation criteria for clinic rotations, radiographs, skill assessments, and population-based competencies.

These documents are essential resources for understanding clinic operations, evaluation standards, and your responsibilities as a student clinician.

You can access all these materials in Blackboard under the Clinic Resources folder. Students are responsible for reviewing and following the policies outlined in these documents.

Cell Phone Policy Classroom/Lab

Cell phones including smart watches are not allowed in the classroom or lab. If a student is found with a cell phone they will be immediately dismissed and marked absent. Students with children or those expecting urgent calls must provide the Office Supervisor’s number (806-354-6050) to caregivers and have calls directed there. If you have a personal situation that requires you to have your cell phone, you must see your instructor.

Cell Phone Policy Clinic

Cell phones including smart watches are not allowed in the dental hygiene clinic, sterilization, or office areas. Cell phone use is only permitted outside clinic hours and outside the clinic, once you have clocked out in Go Track. If a student is found with a cell phone in hand, in a uniform pocket, or anywhere in the clinic bay during clinic hours, they will be immediately dismissed and marked absent. Students with children or those expecting urgent calls must provide the Office Supervisor’s number (806-354-6050) to caregivers and have calls directed there. The supervisor will then notify the student. If you have a personal situation that requires you to have your cell phone, you must see the Lead Instructor before clinic begins.

Your children will not be allowed in the Clinic.  Please, no exceptions.

Upscale & Blackboard

Students can track clinical progress and communicate with faculty through Upscale (dental hygiene grading software) and Blackboard (Amarillo College’s learning management system).

Mailboxes

Each student is assigned a mailbox located inside the student locker room. Students are required to check his/her mailbox daily for various communication from the faculty. Faculty will also correspond via email and announcements on Amarillo College Blackboard.

Bulletin Board

First and second-year dental hygiene students have designated areas on a shared bulletin board inside the student locker room where various announcements may be posted. 

Emergency Contacts

Phone numbers that family members may use to reach a student in case of an emergency are as follows:

Dental Clinic Office Supervisor:  (806) 354-6050

Amarillo College Police:  (806) 371-5163

Emergency Management: The Amarillo College Dental Hygiene Clinic has medical emergency management procedures and safety policies. Please refer to the program manual for further detail regarding these procedures and policies.

Academic Grievance Policy

A student who has a grievance concerning an academic course in which they are enrolled is directed to appeal in the following order to the:  (1)  Instructor (2)  Department Chair/Program Director (3) Dean of Health Sciences/Division Committee (4)  Assistant Vice President of Academic Affairs (5) Vice President of Academic Affairs and (6) College President in that order.

Grading Criteria

Assignments and Examinations

The following criteria will be used to determine the student’s grade:

The course will consist of major examinations, some quizzes, videos, several pre-tests, professionalism evaluations, journaling, clinical faculty lab evaluations, a comprehensive clinical lab final, and a comprehensive written final examination.  Please refer to the course calendar for the schedule of materials to be covered in each class or lab period and the tentative examination dates.  Also, please note the provisions of the Make-up Policy in this syllabus for missed examinations. 

All pre-assignments are due by Noon the day before class. 

Major examinations and quizzes may include objective items such as multiple-choice and true/false questions and, when appropriate, constructed-response items such as short answer, fill-in-the-blank, or essay questions.

Students will not have access to review and study prior quizzes, worksheets, or major examinations in preparation for the final examination.  Students should not rely on memorization of specific test questions; instead, the student should have a general knowledge of the course objectives to be successful in learning the material in preparation for the comprehensive Final Exam in this course and for the Dental Hygiene National Board Examination.

Professionalism Standards Expected in this course

Professionalism is an essential component of dental hygiene education and clinical practice. Students are expected to demonstrate professional behavior, accountability, preparation, and sound judgment beginning with the first class and laboratory session and throughout the semester.

The following are professionalism expectations of students in the preclinical setting:

1. Arrive before the classroom or laboratory session begins, remain until dismissed, and be ready for instruction at the scheduled start time.
2. Complete all required preparation before attending class or laboratory, including assigned readings, pre-assignments, assessments, quizzes, videos, and other required activities.
3. Demonstrate respect through appropriate verbal and nonverbal communication.
4. Interact courteously and professionally with classmates, faculty, staff, and others.
5. Accept constructive feedback professionally and incorporate faculty recommendations into subsequent performance.
6. Accept responsibility for learning, preparation, decisions, and actions.
7. Participate appropriately as a member of the healthcare team and contribute to a productive learning environment.
8. Demonstrate ethical and honest behavior in interactions with classmates, faculty, and staff.
9. Maintain professional appearance and personal grooming in accordance with Amarillo College Dental Hygiene Program policies.
10. Follow established laboratory, equipment, infection-control, safety, and electronic-device policies.

Professionalism & Readiness Evaluation

Professionalism and readiness are evaluated throughout the semester and are considered an essential component of preparation for patient care.

Students will begin the semester with a Professionalism & Readiness score of 100% in Blackboard. Meeting established professional expectations is the standard for participation in the course; students do not earn additional points for meeting routine expectations.

When a professionalism deficiency occurs, the appropriate deduction will be entered into the student's Professionalism & Readiness grade in Blackboard. Faculty will document the reason for the deduction so that students can monitor their professional performance throughout the semester.

The Professionalism & Readiness score is cumulative. Each occurrence is evaluated when it occurs. A previous warning or repeated occurrence is not required before a professionalism deficiency is documented. Students are accountable for course and program expectations beginning with the first class and laboratory session.

Professionalism & Readiness Deductions

Students are responsible for reviewing their Professionalism & Readiness grade in Blackboard and discussing questions regarding a documented deficiency with course faculty in a timely manner.

A student must maintain a minimum Professionalism & Readiness score of 75% to meet the professionalism requirement of DHYG 1331. A final course average of 75% or higher does not replace the requirement to demonstrate acceptable professional behavior and readiness for progression into patient care.

Critical Safety Errors

A critical safety error is different from a routine professionalism deficiency.

A critical safety error is an action or omission that creates an actual or potential threat to student, faculty, provider, or patient safety; represents a significant breach of infection-control protocol; or demonstrates failure to follow an essential safety requirement.

Examples may include, but are not limited to:

• a significant breach of infection-control or asepsis protocol;
• unsafe handling of instruments, sharps, equipment, or materials;
• failure to recognize or appropriately correct contamination;
• proceeding with a procedure after an essential safety requirement has not been met;
• failure to follow a required safety protocol after instruction and faculty direction; or
• another action or omission determined by faculty to create an actual or potential safety risk.

When a critical safety error occurs, faculty will intervene immediately. The student will receive no credit for the affected learning experience or evaluation and may be required to complete faculty-directed remediation before repeating the procedure or progressing to subsequent skills, except when another course policy specifically states that remediation or reassessment is not permitted.

Critical safety errors will be documented according to Dental Hygiene Program procedures.

An incident meeting the definition of a critical safety error will be addressed under the Critical Safety Error policy rather than treated solely as a routine Professionalism & Readiness deduction.

Laboratory and Preclinical Accountability

Preparation, professional conduct, infection control, safety, and appropriate clinical performance are integral components of preclinical competency and readiness for patient care. Students who do not meet these expectations will be evaluated according to the Professionalism & Readiness and Critical Safety Error policies described above.

Laboratory Assignments

The laboratory sessions of this course will consist of exercises that coordinate with the reading assignments and lectures.  The students will first be introduced to the material in lab by utilizing the content in blackboard.  This content will give them the learning objectives and goals for the lesson as well as the text chapters, videos, power points, and other adjuncts to then prepare the students for the pre-assignments.  Prior to the lab session all students will be required to complete the pre-assignment.  When students attend the lab session they will be given exercises by the faculty members demonstrating the processes and discussing the purposes for the steps to be followed during the exercises.  The students will then practice the exercises and complete a self evaluation and a peer evaluation on each skill that is taught.  Then students will be responsible for each skill practical examination by a clinical faculty instructor.  The skill will test the student’s proficiency and level of competence. In order for a student to achieve competence or mastery of the skill they must attain a 75% on the skill evaluation.   It is suggested that each student use the practice time wisely as the course faculty members will be available during that time for guidance and assistance.  The practical examinations will be given randomly and each student is responsible for being ready for a practical examination on the next lab session after the material has be presented and practiced.

The Course Grade is determined by the following categories:

Major Exams -40%

Pre-Assignments/Quizzes/EdPuzzles/Journaling/Professionalism Evaluations -5%

Professionalism & Readiness -5%

Clinical Lab Faculty Evaluations -20%

Comprehensive Written Final Exam -20%

Comprehensive Clinical Instrumentation Practicum -10%

The final course grade will be computed as follows:

A = 93 - 100%            

B = 83 - 92%

C = 75 - 82%

F = below 75%

Note:  A grade of "D" is not possible in this course.

To successfully complete DHYG 1331, the student must: achieve a final course average of 75% or higher; achieve a Professionalism & Readiness score of 75% or higher; and meet all other required course competencies and progression requirements.

Comprehensive Clinical Instrumentation Practicum 

The student is required to complete the comprehensive instrumentation practicum at the end of the semester.  It is essential that  a student possess competent technical skills (psychomotor ) before progressing to Clinic I and patient treatment.   To demonstrate mastery level of clinical instrumentation a 75% must be achieved on the comprehensive clinical instrumentation practicum. Failure to achieve a 75% mastery level on the comprehensive clinical instrumentation practicum indicates a serious deficiency in skill acquisition and lack of preparation for patient treatment responsibilities.  There will be no make-up or remediation status for this exam except under unusual circumstances approved by the Course Director and the Department Chair. The Critical Safety Error remediation and retest provision described elsewhere in this syllabus does not apply to the Comprehensive Clinical Instrumentation Practicum. The practicum is governed by the policy stated in this section.

Faculty Assistance

All students are considered mature enough to seek assistance from the course director and to monitor their own progress in meeting course requirements.  If students have questions concerning assignments, content, etc., or if a problem arises that warrants instructor help, please do not hesitate to call or come by my office to schedule an appointment.  If I am unavailable, leave a note and I will contact you as soon as possible.  I prefer to work with a scheduled appointment so that I may devote the time and attention necessary to meet each student’s needs. 

Missed Examination and Make-Up Exam Policy

Students who miss an examination must contact the instructor within two (2) business days of the scheduled exam date to request a make-up examination. Approval of a make-up exam is at the instructor's discretion.  If approved, the make-up examination may differ in format, content, and scheduling from the original examination. A 10-point deduction will be applied to the student's exam score for any approved make-up examination, regardless of the reason for the absence.

Failure to contact the instructor within two (2) business days may result in a grade of zero for the missed examination unless extenuating circumstances are documented and approved by the instructor.

Electronic Testing Procedures: In this course, all tests will be administered electronically through the Blackboard platform. To facilitate a smooth testing process, students are required to bring their own fully charged tablets or laptops to each scheduled test. Testing will utilize the Respondus LockDown Browser, so please ensure it is installed on your device beforehand. It is imperative that all students submit their completed tests on Blackboard before closing their laptops and/or leaving the classroom. Failure to submit within the designated timeframe may result in a grade penalty. Upholding academic integrity is paramount in this course, and any form of cheating, plagiarism, or unauthorized collaboration during tests will be strictly addressed in accordance with the AC Rights and Responsibilities policies. By participating in electronic testing, students acknowledge and agree to comply with these procedures.

Attendance

DENTAL CLASSROOM Attendance Policy

"Regular attendance is necessary for satisfactory achievement. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the student to attend class in accordance with the requirements of the course as established by the instructor." (Amarillo College Student's Rights and Responsibilities Publication). Absences will be monitored and evaluated to determine a student's final course grade. A student with less than 90% attendance in class or lab may fail the course. Student absenteeism jeopardizes the completion of the course. The instructor will take roll for each class and note absences for each student. Students who are not present for roll call are counted absent. Students must report any anticipated class/lab absence to the instructor. A student who leaves class or lab early is counted absent.  A student will receive ONE bonus point to the final grade for perfect attendance with a prior passing minimum average of 75%.

Calendar

Additional Information

The Amarillo College Catalog

The Amarillo College Academic Catalog can be viewed at:  http://catalog.actx.edu. 

https://www.actx.edu/resources/

This website can be used to find those needed resources for Amarillo College students and their families.

Our goal is to provide as much information as possible for employees and students to be able to access campus and community resources when needed. There are many more resources in this community that are not listed on these pages. Some of these agencies and programs will change; so if you call and cannot get assistance, or cannot access a broken link, please contact me, Jordan Herrera, for more updated information.

The website will be updated as often as possible; therefore, most will be current. If the resources listed do not serve the needs you have or if you have any questions concerning this website, please call or email: Jordan Herrera, LMSW, Coordinator of Social Services, 806-371-5439, jordan@amarillocollege.com