This assignment revealed the importance of breaking down complex terms to make it easier for persons with no background knowledge to understand the meaning. Working in healthcare, it is essential to explain words in a way that is easy for the client to understand to aid in client compliance with treatment regimens and attain optimal oral health results. Oftentimes it can be taken for granted that the client knows what the healthcare professional is referring to because of routine conversations with coworkers. Healthcare professionals like dental hygienists must avoid this type of speech to discourage confusion. This assignment has allowed me to critically analyze word selection, sentence structure and how this may be perceived by others.
The choice I made while writing was:
For a challenge, a more complex term was chosen that is not often used within dental practice . Based on the peer review received, I put a good effort forward. I am uncertain if the term was easier to understand because of our similar career backgrounds. This term should be explained to someone with no dental background to determine if the explanation is clear.
Peer review process:
A challenge arose when explaining what a ranula was not. There had to be a similar comparison to the original term, but not overcomplicate it for the reader. Miranda Hoang provided sound recommendations, and I am grateful for the positive and critical feedback received. Although Miranda highlighted that the introduction of another complex term might be confusing to the reader. It is noteworthy to mention that it is difficult to compare pathological lesions to something similar without introducing a new lesion. The closest resemblance to a ranula would be a mucocele. This term was introduced on the basis that my audience has grasped the term ranula. Both are cysts; just the location and size differ and should not be confused. Also, I did not want to overlook Miranda’s advice when stated, “you may want to consider adding what one might do if they have a ranula.” Adding this information would stray away from explaining the meaning of the term to treatment recommendations.
Editing process:
Initially, posting the image directly into the assignment posed a challenge. Putting the hyperlink to the image was the best solution because I could not figure out how to insert the image. Through trial and error, I learned how to successfully insert the visual into the assignment; this was rewarding and self-satisfying because I overcame a small learning curve.
In future, writing more clearly to avoid confusion should be worked on. This peer review exercise was helpful because it allows the writer to see the work through the lens of the reader. Also, it allows for constructive feedback that will ultimately aid in improving writing techniques. Comparing my writing technique to Miranda’s, I could be more concise in future.
Hyperlink to revised peer definition:
https://blogs.ubc.ca/engl301-98a-2021sa/2021/06/09/revised-three-definitions/
Hyperlink to peer review:
https://blogs.ubc.ca/engl301-98a-2021sa/2021/06/04/peer-review-of-assignment-13/