1st Session (September 24) The first session focused on cultural exchange among students from Srinakharinwirot University (SWU), King’s College London (KCL), and Science Tokyo (formerly TMDU), with a total of 85 participants. In the first half, students enjoyed presenting and discussing their countries, cultures, and universities, which built mutual understanding. The latter half featured small group free discussions in breakout rooms, facilitated by Dr. Yuna Kanamori, which gave the students an opportunity to introduce themselves and exchange detailed information about their countries. This session aimed to foster ongoing growth and collaboration among students throughout their undergraduate years.

2nd Session (October 8) The second session included lectures on aging/aged societies and oral function by Dr. Yuriko Komagamine and problem-solving methods by Prof. Naoko Seki. Students then moved to breakout rooms for small group discussions, applying problem-solving methods to brainstorm issues and think of solutions related to aging/aged societies. Students discussed possible challenges facing dental professionals. The session ended with a lecture on oral function evaluation methods and feedback from Dr. Komagamine, encouraging continued collaborative learning.
 

This session between SWU, KCL, and Science Tokyo included lectures on the relationship between periodontal disease and systemic diseases by Dr. Koji Mizutani and article writing by Prof. Janelle Moross and Prof. Naoko Seki. Students then assigned to one of three topics and began writing short articles together, emphasizing evidence-based medicine in the breakout rooms. After sharing their progress and receiving feedback from Dr. Mizutani and Dr. Richard Foxton, the students continued to develop their articles online after the session, gaining a deeper understanding and motivation for ongoing collaboration.

1st Session (November 26) Students from SWU, KCL, and Science Tokyo learned about critical thinking and appraisal of scientific articles. They critically appraised an assigned case report and discussed various treatment plans in breakout rooms and received feedback from the author of the case report, Prof. Keiichi Hosaka, which broadened their perspectives around treatment planning. They also watched a video lecture on organizing thoughts visually, learning the importance of critical appraisal and thought organization as dentists.

2nd Session (December 10) In this session, students discussed diagnosis and treatment planning in breakout rooms. They presented their discussions in the main room, focusing on the global and cultural aspects of treatment planning. After the presentations, students attended a lecture on digital technology in dentistry by Dr. Takashi Hatayama, learning new treatment methods and techniques.
 

Through these sessions, students from all three universities expanded their international perspectives and grew together as dental students. The ongoing exchange opportunities also facilitated international friendships as well as fostering collaborative learning and development among the students.