ADA NSW adopts D2L Brightspace to enhance member learning

The Australian Dental Association New South Wales Branch (ADA NSW) has chosen D2L's Brightspace Learning Management System to enhance the educational offerings for its more than 5,000 members.

ADA NSW provides a comprehensive range of educational and training services aimed at supporting the professional development of dentists throughout their careers.

The adoption of D2L Brightspace is intended to optimise the delivery of these courses, ensuring the association's relevance and connection with its members, regardless of their career stage.

Jae Redden, Chief Executive Officer of ADA NSW, stated, "Our retention rate is impressive at 93 per cent in 2024. However, the growth rate has been stagnant, and we were looking at ways we could step it up."

"Our challenge is to drive engagement amongst the digitally native younger members as they progress through their careers as well as to connect more with all our members. We have invested in D2L Brightspace to personalise the learning journey to provide exceptional value to our members at every career stage."

ADA NSW's Centre for Professional Development (CPD) delivers educational programs that include practical skills workshops and digital dentistry training.

The offerings encompass the use of advanced tools such as artificial intelligence, 3D printing, and high-definition intraoral scanning within an advanced digital learning facility.

Claire Schifter, CPD Manager at ADA NSW, commented on their commitment to innovation, "We are increasingly engaging with new tools and innovative technologies that are constantly advancing in the world of dentistry."

The educational program at ADA NSW currently accounts for approximately 30 per cent of the organisation's revenue, with around 200 courses delivered annually to approximately 4,000 participants. The introduction of Brightspace aims to expand and enhance the course offerings.

Dr Cathleen Dong, Clinical Education Principal and Board Member at ADA NSW, highlighted the balance of learning formats, "Whilst there has been an increase in demand for hybrid learning due to a shift in our members' needs and preferences, the practical nature of dentistry still benefits from face-to-face, hands-on practice."

The use of D2L Brightspace will support online learning initiatives, including lecture-based content and on-demand webinars.

Subject matter experts and specialists design and teach these courses, with a focus on preparing members for practical workshops which require in-person participation.

Dr Dong expressed optimism about the system's integration, "By implementing D2L Brightspace, we want to enhance the Association's digital workflow. This will enable continuous learning, including reflection and self-assessment, and help assess our member's learning needs at each phase of their careers."

Tony Maguire, Regional Director for Australia and New Zealand at D2L, shared his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, "We are thrilled to be working with the Australian Dental Association NSW to help them drive member growth by offering a more enhanced personalised learning experience via D2L Brightspace."