Karius och Bactus in Cambodia

Abstract

Pupose and questions The purpose of this study is to make a research of the pedagogical methods that are used by the dentist Karin Jonsson to teach poor children about dental care. I will also examine what the main opportunities and obstacles are in teaching dental care to poor children in Cambodia.

- Which pedagogical tools and methods are used to teach the children the cause and effect of caries and tooth brushing? - Which difficulties and opportunities may/can occur during the work to improve children’s dental health?

Material and methods The methods used in the study were mainly of two kinds, interviews and participant observations. Material used for this thesis include interviews with people related to the dental health work, observation during lessons and at the clinic. Literature related to pedagogical and health developing work as well as reports and policies about Cambodia and dental health are used.

Results The pedagogical tools used are the symbol of the sad and happy tooth, pictures and body language. These tools are used to establish a communication between the dentist and the children which is based on positive motivation and praise, and a participating pedagogy were the children are involved. The cooperation between organizations, teaching and the clinic is an advantage in this educational workas well as working with a Khmer nurse. Poverty, access to sweets and a lack of parent responsibility are the main difficulties.

Relevance for the teaching proffesions This study shows the importance of adapting teaching methods to a particular group of students, with a differing culture and language. This is an important task in the multicultural classroom of todays schools. The study also shows the importance of a good relationship between the school and parents.