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Nasir BF, Chater B, McGrail M, Kondalsamy-Chennakesavan S. A retrospective descriptive review of community-engaged research projects addressing rural health priorities. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2024; 24:805. [PMID: 39075475 PMCID: PMC11285408 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-024-05791-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most rural populations experience significant health disadvantage. Community-engaged research can facilitate research activities towards addressing health issues of priority to local communities. Connecting scholars with community based frontline practices that are addressing local health and medical needs helps establish a robust pipeline for research that can inform gaps in health provision. Rural Health Projects (RHPs) are conducted as part of the Doctor of Medicine program at the University of Queensland. This study aims to describe the geographic coverage of RHPs, the health topic areas covered and the different types of RHP research activities conducted. It also provides meaningful insight of the health priorities for local rural communities in Queensland, Australia. METHODS This study conducted a retrospective review of RHPs conducted between 2011 and 2021 in rural and remote Australian communities. Descriptive analyses were used to describe RHP locations by their geographical classification and disease/research categorisation using the International Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems - 10th Revision (ICD-10) codes and the Human Research Classification System (HRCS) categories. RESULTS There were a total of 2806 eligible RHPs conducted between 2011 and 2021, predominantly in Queensland (n = 2728, 97·2%). These were mostly conducted in small rural towns (under 5,000 population, n = 1044, 37·2%) or other rural towns up to 15,000 population (n = 842, 30·0%). Projects mostly addressed individual care needs (n = 1233, 43·9%) according to HRCS categories, or were related to factors influencing health status and contact with health services (n = 1012, 36·1%) according to ICD-10 classification. CONCLUSIONS Conducting community focused RHPs demonstrates a valuable method to address community-specific rural health priorities by engaging medical students in research projects while simultaneously enhancing their research skills.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bushra Farah Nasir
- Mayne Academy of Rural and Remote Medicine, Rural and Remote Medicine Clinical Unit, Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Theodore 4719, QLD, Australia.
- Toowoomba Regional Clinical Unit, Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland Toowoomba, 6 Range Street, Mount Lofty, Toowoomba, QLD, 4350, Australia.
| | - Bruce Chater
- Mayne Academy of Rural and Remote Medicine, Rural and Remote Medicine Clinical Unit, Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Theodore 4719, QLD, Australia
| | - Matthew McGrail
- Rockhampton Regional Clinical Unit Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Rockhampton 4700, QLD, Australia
| | - Srinivas Kondalsamy-Chennakesavan
- Toowoomba Regional Clinical Unit, Medical School, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland Toowoomba, 6 Range Street, Mount Lofty, Toowoomba, QLD, 4350, Australia
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Siriwatsopon J, Samala M, Guerra G, Kongsatan P, Rayothee P. Development of a proposed organizational framework for undergraduate research training in prosthetics and orthotics education. Prosthet Orthot Int 2024; 48:358-366. [PMID: 38180147 DOI: 10.1097/pxr.0000000000000316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An undergraduate research project gives prosthetic and orthotic (P&O) students the chance to acquire both foundational research knowledge and in-depth knowledge in a specific area of interest in P&O research. Undergraduates frequently enter the field of research with less experience or understanding of research instruments, presenting them with significant obstacles when conducting research. OBJECTIVE This study's objective was to establish a framework for undergraduate research training in prosthetics and orthotics education. METHODS Using narrative qualitative methodology, 4 successive phases of research were conducted. Phase I: A document analysis was conducted to determine the presence of research training in Thailand's undergraduate P&O curriculum taught in 2021; phase II: document analysis of student P&O program feedback reports using manifest content analysis; phase III: strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats analysis of lecturer P&O program feedback reports; and phase IV: data sets from phases I, II, and III were applied to the formulation of a unifying framework. Using grounded theory's three-stage thematic analysis-open, axial, and selective coding-data were analyzed. CONCLUSIONS The novel organizational research framework is presented as the result and conclusion of the study. The framework for enhancing this important foundational research program at the undergraduate level was derived through discussion with colleagues and based on the results and discussion from this investigation. Although the framework for undergraduate research training was designed for use by the undergraduate prosthetics and orthotics program in Thailand, it is believed to be applicable and relevant to P&O education worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juthamas Siriwatsopon
- Sirindhorn School of Prosthetics and Orthotics, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Zhan C, Zhang Y. Perception, practice, and barriers toward research among pediatric undergraduates: a cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2024; 24:364. [PMID: 38570767 PMCID: PMC10988852 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-024-05361-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Scientific research activities are crucial for the development of clinician-scientists. However, few people pay attention to the current situation of medical research in pediatric medical students in China. This study aims to assess the perceptions, practices and barriers toward medical research of pediatric undergraduates. METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted among third-year, fourth-year and fifth-year pediatric students from Zhejiang University School of Medicine in China via an anonymous online questionnaire. The questionnaires were also received from fifth-year students majoring in other medicine programs [clinical medicine ("5 + 3") and clinical medicine (5-year)]. RESULTS The response rate of pediatric undergraduates was 88.3% (68/77). The total sample of students enrolled in the study was 124, including 36 students majoring in clinical medicine ("5 + 3") and 20 students majoring in clinical medicine (5-year). Most students from pediatrics ("5 + 3") recognized that research was important. Practices in scientific research activities are not satisfactory. A total of 51.5%, 35.3% and 36.8% of the pediatric students participated in research training, research projects and scientific article writing, respectively. Only 4.4% of the pediatric students contributed to publishing a scientific article, and 14.7% had attended medical congresses. None of them had given a presentation at a congress. When compared with fifth-year students in the other medicine program, the frequency of practices toward research projects and training was lower in the pediatric fifth-year students. Lack of time, lack of guidance and lack of training were perceived as the main barriers to scientific work. Limited English was another obvious barrier for pediatric undergraduates. Pediatric undergraduates preferred to participate in clinical research (80.9%) rather than basic research. CONCLUSIONS Although pediatric undergraduates recognized the importance of medical research, interest and practices in research still require improvement. Lack of time, lack of guidance, lack of training and limited English were the common barriers to scientific work. Therefore, research training and English improvement were recommended for pediatric undergraduates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Canyang Zhan
- Department of Neonatology, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhang
- Department of Pulmonology, Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China.
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Ahmad Z, Ammar M, Siby N, Bhadra J, Sellami A, Al-Thani NJ. Do research experience programs promote capacity building in Qatar: Investigating the trend and participation differences. Heliyon 2023; 9:e22071. [PMID: 38027785 PMCID: PMC10663928 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e22071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Research Experience programs (REPs) inspire students to pursue advanced degrees and shape their research career paths. Government and commercial organizations sponsor REPs to promote the capacity building of the country. In Qatar, the national youth is reported to show concerning participation in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines at the K-12 level. However, none of the studies investigate these participation trends at the undergraduate level, especially in scientific research, which is deemed necessary for building a knowledge-based economy in Qatar. Therefore, to bridge this gap, the current study uses a quantitative approach to analyze the REP in Qatar through the participation data of 2455 undergraduate students. For this, statistical measures, including descriptive analysis, independent samples t-test, and Pearson's correlation analysis were used. Results indicated concerning trends in national student participation rate, implying underlying issues restricting their representation in undergraduate research activities. Also, statistically significant differences were found in student participation rates among students' gender and ethnic distributions. While female students demonstrated higher participation rates than males, national students showed lower participation than the non-nationals. Moreover, this low participation of national students suffered more drastically in STEM disciplines. Therefore, these findings determine the outlook for stakeholders and academic institutions in making meaningful educational decisions and envision synchronizing REPs at the university level, gauging measures to bolster the adjacent funding agencies and government organizations. Furthermore, being the first research addressing REPs in the Middle East region, this study has the potential to support educators in neighboring and other developing nations where STEM education is especially significant for human capacity building.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zubair Ahmad
- Qatar University Young Scientists Center (QUYSC), Qatar University, 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mohammad Ammar
- Qatar University Young Scientists Center (QUYSC), Qatar University, 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Nitha Siby
- Qatar University Young Scientists Center (QUYSC), Qatar University, 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Jolly Bhadra
- Qatar University Young Scientists Center (QUYSC), Qatar University, 2713, Doha, Qatar
| | | | - Noora J Al-Thani
- Qatar University Young Scientists Center (QUYSC), Qatar University, 2713, Doha, Qatar
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Wilson E, Elmokattaf R, Aljumaa R, Almasri G, Altayeb MT, Sajid M. Exploring the Challenges and Opportunities for Female Medical Students Engaged in Research in Saudi Arabia: A Qualitative Study. Cureus 2023; 15:e43607. [PMID: 37719545 PMCID: PMC10504447 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.43607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
While researchers have made great strides in expanding opportunities for women in medical research, some gender imbalance persists, particularly in the context of the Arab world. The purpose of our study was to discover obstacles that female medical students have faced in conducting research. We conducted our study at a small private university in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and we used a qualitative, feminist methodology. In April 2022, we collected data from four group interviews with 21 female undergraduate medical students who had experience participating in research projects. The study's aim was to elicit participants' perspectives on the barriers women face when conducting medical research through all phases of the research process, including expressing interest in a particular field, finding faculty support, performing research activities, and assessing research outcomes. The inductive thematic framework data analysis revealed three major themes expressed by participants: differing expectations for female students versus male students in conducting research; challenges for female students in securing research opportunities; and practical challenges for female students in conducting research. Findings from this study suggest that targeted interventions such as mentorship programs can help female students overcome obstacles and work toward equal participation of female and male students in medical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Wilson
- English Department, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, SAU
| | | | - Roaa Aljumaa
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, SAU
| | - Ghada Almasri
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, SAU
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Cuschieri A, Cuschieri S. Analysing the Impact of an Elective Research Experience on Medical Students' Research Perceptions. MEDICAL SCIENCE EDUCATOR 2023; 33:157-164. [PMID: 36688012 PMCID: PMC9845813 DOI: 10.1007/s40670-023-01727-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Physicians are at the centre of bench-to-bedside research, yet the number of physicians engaging in research is declining. One solution to overcome this alarming trend is exposing medical students to research. This study aims to assess the impact of engaging medical students in research, and the feasibility of conducting research solely using online communication. METHODS A pilot elective research opportunity was offered to medical students enrolled to the University of Malta Doctor of Medicine and Surgery course by a resident academic (summer 2021) of the same institute to assess the epidemiology of COVID-19 in Europe. An anonymous survey was distributed to seventy medical students recruited to participate in this elective research project. The data collected was analysed and interpreted. RESULTS A response rate of 88.73% was achieved. "Career progression" and "lack of time" were the most reported motivating and hindering factors towards conducting research, respectively, before engaging in a research experience. Research experience helped overcome reported barriers (p < 0.01), while also challenging students' perceptions towards research. An increase in positive perceptions towards research was observed after conducting research. An overwhelming majority (90.47%) of participants reported that mentorship played an influential role in their overall experience, and 95.24% commented that they would like research opportunities to be made available by their faculty. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Giving students the opportunity to conduct research demonstrated how research experience improves students' soft skills and the understanding of research. This study also portrayed how remote research opportunities are effective in engaging students and increased the number of students who would consider a career in research. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40670-023-01727-w.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Cuschieri
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Malta, Imsida, MSD2080 Malta
| | - Sarah Cuschieri
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Malta, Imsida, MSD2080 Malta
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Alyousefi N, Alnojaidi J, Almohsen A, Alghanoum S, Alassiry G, Alsanad L, Alzeer S. How Do Medical Students Perceive Their Research Experiences and Associated Challenges? ADVANCES IN MEDICAL EDUCATION AND PRACTICE 2023; 14:9-20. [PMID: 36636321 PMCID: PMC9831076 DOI: 10.2147/amep.s395235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Undergraduate medical students' research experience is essential for their career progress. Understanding the perceived challenges undergraduate medical students face in conducting research can improve the research experience in the undergraduate curriculum. This study explores the medical students' perception of medical research and assesses their practices and perceived barriers encountered in carrying out medical research. METHODS A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among medical students of the college of medicine of King Saud University in Riyadh. They were invited to enroll in a web-based survey composed of four sections; demographic data, attitudes toward science and research, perceived barriers to participating in scientific research activities, and medical students' research practice and experience. RESULTS A total of 389 students responded to the survey. The most commonly reported barrier to participation in scientific research was lack of time due to being overburdened with educational activities (74.6%). Gender (P <0.008), age (P <0.0001), academic year (P <0.0001), grade of the research course (P <0.0001), and the rank of supervisor (P <0.0001) were identified as significant contributors to success in publication. The only barrier identified as a significant factor is the inadequate research supervisors' guidance and support (P 0.015). Clinical students are more confident in research skills than pre-clinical students. CONCLUSION Although participation in the research was high among medical students, most reported a lack of time and the lack of mentors as significant barriers to conduct research. This required interventions to improve the mentorship and tailor it to the student's needs throughout the curriculum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nada Alyousefi
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, King Saud University Medical City, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Joud Alnojaidi
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Afnan Almohsen
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shayma Alghanoum
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ghaida Alassiry
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Layan Alsanad
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Samu Alzeer
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Chen H, Teng T, Chen H, Liu X, Liu Z, Li X, Jie W, Wu X, Cao L, Hongyan W, Zhu D, Zhou X. Motivation, self-efficacy, perception, curiosity, and barriers toward medical research among undergraduates in China. BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY EDUCATION : A BIMONTHLY PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL UNION OF BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 51:18-28. [PMID: 36285877 DOI: 10.1002/bmb.21684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 09/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Medical research is important to scientific progress and medical education. Institutions worldwide have sought to increase student involvement in research such as clinician-scientists training programs, while little is known about how medical undergraduates perceive research. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China, with first-fourth year undergraduates. An online, anonymous, and self-rating 5-point Likert questionnaire was conducted to investigate medical undergraduates' demographic characteristics and assess motivation, self-efficacy, perception, curiosity, and barriers regarding medical research. Content validity was checked with experts and face validity was checked for clarity and understanding of the questionnaire. The Cronbach's alpha coefficient of the questions ranged from 0.813 to 0.879. A total of 3273 medical undergraduates were surveyed, and 86.62% (2835) participants (male 962, female 1873) were identified as effective. Males scored higher than females on self-efficacy (p < 0.001), perception (p = 0.017), and curiosity (p < 0.001), and lower on barriers (p < 0.001). The second year students are at the peak of their perception (p = 0.006) and lowest barrier scores (p = 0.003). Students with scientific research experience scored higher in motivation (p = 0.002), self-efficacy (p < 0.001), perception (p < 0.001), and curiosity (p < 0.001). Lack of proper mentoring opportunity (86.2%) and knowledge (84.5%) were the main barriers in conducting research. Even though they have a positive perspective, only a few undergraduates enrolled in research. Medical universities should encourage faculties to supervise and guide undergraduates' projects, and provide feasible solutions for students to learn scientific knowledge and skills. It is vital to build a research-oriented environment and academic atmosphere.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiyu Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Academy of Pediatrics, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Teng Teng
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hongyu Chen
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- The First Clinical Medical School, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoying Liu
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- The First Clinical Medical School, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhaohong Liu
- Department of Student Affairs, The First Clinical Medical School, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xuemei Li
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wang Jie
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiang Wu
- Department of Student Affairs, The First Clinical Medical School, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Lu Cao
- Department of Student Affairs, The First Clinical Medical School, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wu Hongyan
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Dan Zhu
- Dean's Office, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xinyu Zhou
- Department of Psychiatry, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
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AlQirem L, Al-Huneidy L, Hammouri M, Taha H, Al-Somadi H, Al-Bitar F, Kitaneh R, Al-Huneidy Y, Al-Somadi H, Ashour O, Sayed F, Mohammed D, Abu Tawileh R, Al-Ani A. Perceived barriers towards the importance and application of medical research: a source of gender disparity among medical undergraduates. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2022; 22:767. [PMID: 36348324 PMCID: PMC9644503 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-022-03822-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about gender disparity among medical undergraduates in the developing world. Therefore, this study aims to explore the attitudes and perceived barriers among Jordanian medical students, particularly women. METHODS An online, self-administered questionnaire, developed after an extensive literature review, was disseminated across all six Jordanian medical schools targeting more than 5000 medical students. Student t-test and ANOVA were used to document mean differences among different groups. Linear and logistic regression models were used to find predictors of publication and number of publications. RESULTS A total of 636 students participated in the survey with a women to men ratio of 1.1. Women medical students report significantly higher knowledge (t(634) = 2.47, p = 0.013), personal (t(634) = 3.31, p = 0.001), and total barriers scores than men (t(634) = 3.02, p = 0.003). Moreover, compared to men, women were less likely to find same-sex mentorship (t(634) = 3.18, p = 0.001) or receive credited authorship (t(634) = 2.12, p = 0.011). Overall, women medical students were more likely to perceive that their gender (t(634) = 3.58, p < 0.001) and people's perception of their gender (t(634) = 4.25, p < 0.001) are barriers to their career advancement. Binary logistic regression demonstrated that gender is a significant predictor of being able to publish (OR: 1.645; 95%CI: 1.002-2.731), while linear regression demonstrated that gender is a predictor of number of publications (ß: 0.113; 95%CI: 0.063-0.288). CONCLUSION A significant gender disparity exists in terms of both attitudes and overall barriers among Jordanian medical undergraduates which calls for immediate policy changes as to produce successful clinicians and researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina AlQirem
- Faculty of medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Leen Al-Huneidy
- Faculty of medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | | | - Hana Taha
- Department of Pharmacology, Public Health and Clinical Skills, Faculty of Medicine, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan
| | - Husam Al-Somadi
- Faculty of medicine, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Al-Bashir Hospital, Amman, Jordan
| | - Farah Al-Bitar
- Faculty of medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Al-Shmaisani Hospital, Amman, Jordan
| | - Razi Kitaneh
- Faculty of medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Yazan Al-Huneidy
- Faculty of medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Al-Istishari Hospital, Amman, Jordan
| | | | - Omar Ashour
- Faculty of medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Arab Medical Center, Amman, Jordan
| | - Farah Sayed
- Faculty of medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Al-Shmaisani Hospital, Amman, Jordan
| | - Dina Mohammed
- Faculty of medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | | | - Abdallah Al-Ani
- Office of Scientific Affairs and Research, King Hussein Cancer Center, Amman, Jordan.
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Ahmad S, Ahmad S, Ahmad U, Cheema HA, Iqbal N, Shahid A, Malik B, Siddique A, Jaffar H, Ghani U, Sarfraz W, Shelar V, Rahir U, Zubair M, Ali NN, Safdar S, Essar MY, Abadeen ZU. An assessment of publishing practices and barriers faced by medical students to conduct research: A cross-sectional study from Pakistan. Health Sci Rep 2022; 5:e831. [PMID: 36110346 PMCID: PMC9464460 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Pakistan being a low- and middle-income country, its institutes are substantially deficient in scientific and technological aspects and share limited research contributions to the world repositories. Therefore, there is a rising concern to reflect on the history and status of publishing attitudes among medical students in Pakistan and to highlight and address the barriers that they are facing. Methods A study was conducted aiming to determine the experience, motivation, and attitude of medical students in regarding publishing practices throughout Pakistan in several medical colleges. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to find the independent predictors of students publishing a research article. Forward selection was used to arrive at the final stepwise logistic regression. Odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated. p < 0.05 was considered significant for all statistical tests. Results From a sample size of 1225 participants, only 6.6% of students had published an article in our study. Of these, 59% were males and 31.3% were in final year. Males were more likely to publish articles than females (OR = 2.69, 95% CI: 1.37-5.26) and final-year students were more likely to publish articles than first-year students (OR = 7.48, 95% CI: 1.34-41.81). Students that had the knowledge that performing research is the way through which they will be judged for jobs had significantly higher odds of getting an article published (OR = 16.21, 95% CI: 3.65-71.88). Additionally, students who had been taught how to write a paper and those who knew the process of submitting an article were more likely to get published than the others. Conclusion Our study has successfully highlighted the status of publishing among medical students in Pakistan. Our findings serve as an eye opener and call to action for authorities to address the grievances of students in terms of barriers, lack of mentorship, and lack of research teaching. We hope our findings can guide a strong policy change to facilitate the next generation of passionate researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shoaib Ahmad
- Department of General MedicinePunjab Medical CollegeFaisalabadPakistan
| | - Shkaib Ahmad
- Department of General MedicineDG Khan Medical CollegeDG KhanPakistan
| | - Unaiza Ahmad
- Department of General MedicinePunjab Medical CollegeFaisalabadPakistan
| | | | - Nida Iqbal
- Department of General MedicineMohtarma Benazir Bhutto Shaheed Medical CollegeAzad Jammu and KashmirPakistan
| | - Abia Shahid
- Department of General MedicineKing Edward Medical UniversityLahorePakistan
| | - Badar Malik
- Department of General MedicinePunjab Medical CollegeFaisalabadPakistan
| | - Amna Siddique
- Department of General MedicineKarachi Medical and Dental CollegeKarachiPakistan
| | - Huda Jaffar
- Department of General MedicineDow Medical UniversityKarachiPakistan
| | - Usman Ghani
- Department of General MedicinePunjab Medical CollegeFaisalabadPakistan
| | - Waqar Sarfraz
- Department of General MedicinePunjab Medical CollegeFaisalabadPakistan
| | - Vrushali Shelar
- Department of General MedicineSaratov State Medical UniversitySaratovRussia
| | - Ufaq Rahir
- Department of General MedicineJSS Medical CollegeMysuruIndia
| | - Maryam Zubair
- Department of General MedicineUniversity of TripoliTripoliLibya
| | | | - Sifwa Safdar
- Department of General MedicineAllama Iqbal Medical CollegeLahorePakistan
| | | | - Zain Ul Abadeen
- Department of General MedicinePunjab Medical CollegeFaisalabadPakistan
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Cuschieri A, Cuschieri S. Medical Students' Perceptions on Research: Results from a Small European Island State. MEDICAL SCIENCE EDUCATOR 2021; 31:1991-1999. [PMID: 34956709 PMCID: PMC8651879 DOI: 10.1007/s40670-021-01426-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A crucial aspect of medical education is research training. Many studies have been conducted targeting the publishing rate among medical students, but information is lacking about the perceptions of medical students towards research, especially of students studying in small island states. This study aims to investigate students' perceptions towards research and increase the insight on what motivates and hinders medical students to conduct research. METHODS An anonymous mixed-methods cross-sectional online questionnaire was distributed to five hundred and forty-nine medical students studying at the University of Malta. The data gathered was statistically analysed and consequently interpreted. RESULTS A response rate of 25.05% was achieved, with 10.00% of students having already published their research. Despite 86.43% of students interested in conducting research, only 22.86% have pursued a research endeavour. The main reason for conducting research was 'out of students' own interest'. The main barrier hindering students from conducting research was perceived as the absence of research opportunities. DISCUSSION Medical students have a positive attitude towards the conduction of research, to enhance their medical education. Hence, identification of potential barriers hindering medical students from conducting research should be sought out and hands-on research opportunities should be provided, on an elective basis, to pursue their research interest. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40670-021-01426-4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Cuschieri
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Malta, MSD2080 Imsida, Malta
| | - Sarah Cuschieri
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Malta, MSD2080 Imsida, Malta
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Alsaleem SA, Alkhairi MAY, Alzahrani MAA, Alwadai MI, Alqahtani SSA, Alaseri YFY, Alqarni MAM, Assiri SA, Alsaleem MA, Mahmood SE. Challenges and Barriers Toward Medical Research Among Medical and Dental Students at King Khalid University, Abha, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Front Public Health 2021; 9:706778. [PMID: 34490190 PMCID: PMC8417604 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.706778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Medical research is a systematic method to obtain new knowledge, reduce diagnosis problems, discover the latest or best treatment for a disease, and also used for disease prevention. Objective: The study aims to assess the challenges and barriers to conduct medical research among medical and dentistry students and determine the reasons that hinder the conduct of the study. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, the research population consisted of medical and dental students affiliated with King Khalid University in Saudi Arabia in 2020. The study followed a descriptive approach based on quantitative analysis. The Statistical Package of the Social Sciences (SPSS) program (V. 16.0, SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA) was used for data analysis. Results: A total of 327 students participated in this study, and the response rate was 100%. Among them, 61.5% were females. In this study majority (63.3%) had a moderate attitude toward conducting medical research and the average was 56.17. The majority (53.8%) had a reasonable behavior toward conducting medical research, and the average was 29.06. Lack of time, skills, funding, facilities, and limited access to medical journals and related databases were the significant barriers found. Most of the students had positive attitudes, except that they are not awarded on their research, do not attend the sessions, and do not speak their thoughts. A significant relationship between demographic characteristics (age, level, and Grade Percentage Average), attitudes & perceived barriers toward research was found (<0.05). Conclusion: The majority of the students demonstrated a positive attitude toward and moderate behavior of research. However, most are not awarded on their research, do not attend the sessions, and do not speak their thoughts. Intensive training and adequate support in research activities of medical and dental students at the undergraduate level may help reduce these challenges and barriers toward research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Safar Abadi Alsaleem
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Mohammed Abadi Alsaleem
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Syed Esam Mahmood
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
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Öcek Z, Batı H, Sezer ED, Köroğlu ÖA, Yılmaz Ö, Yılmaz ND, Mandıracıoğlu A. Research training program in a Turkish medical school: challenges, barriers and opportunities from the perspectives of the students and faculty members. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2021; 21:2. [PMID: 33397360 PMCID: PMC7780673 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-020-02454-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/11/2020] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Providing medical students with opportunities for research experience is challenging for medical schools in developing countries. The Research Training Program (RTP), which is carried out in Ege University Faculty of Medicine (EUFM) parallel to the core curriculum, aims to improve the scientific competencies of the highly motivated students and to provide them with the opportunity to conduct a research. The purpose of this project is to evaluate RTP through the perspectives of students and faculty members. METHODS This phenomenological study included two groups; students of RTP and faculty members who contributed to the program. Interviews were conducted with the research group whose selection was determined by maximum variation technique. Interviews with new individuals continued until data saturation was reached. Interpretative data analysis started with close reading of the transcripts and generating a list of codes. Coding by two independently, developing categories and themes were the following steps. RESULTS Twenty-one RTP students and 14 faculty members were interviewed. The main motivation for students to participate was the desire to learn how to do research. The introduction course providing the students with the basic competencies needs to be improved in terms of practical activities. It was reported that during the project process students needed intensive guidance especially in finding a research topic and a mentor. The students' lack of time, deficit of enough mentoring and the fact that conducting a research does not provide a competitive advantage for residency are important obstacles to the completion of the program. The most frequently mentioned achievement of the students is to learn all the stages of the research as well as getting acquainted with critical thinking. CONCLUSIONS This research showed that it was realistic to implement research programs for highly motivated students in medical schools with conditions like those in EUFM. The solution of mentor shortage emerged in this study is dependent on the adoption of student research as a national policy. Getting acquainted with the interrogative thinking style, conducting research, and making lifelong learning a core value are more important outcomes of research programs than the number of completed projects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeliha Öcek
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Hilal Batı
- Department of Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Ebru Demirel Sezer
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Ege University, 35100, Izmir, Turkey.
| | - Özge Altun Köroğlu
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Özlem Yılmaz
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
| | | | - Aliye Mandıracıoğlu
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Ege University, Izmir, Turkey
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Abdulrahman S, Aboalshamat K, Muthana M, Sait G, Bantan N, Hafiz S, Mahrous R, Alsuhaqi A. Knowledge, Attitude, Practice, Motives and Barriers Towards Scientific Research among Dentists and Dental Students in Saudi Arabia. Open Dent J 2020. [DOI: 10.2174/1874210602014010615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background:
Research is crucial for the scientific progress of the health of individuals, communities, and systems. The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitude, motives and barriers among dentists and dental students in the western region of Saudi Arabia.
Objective:
This study aims to assess the level of knowledge, attitude, motives and barriers toward scientific research among dentists and dental students in the western region of Saudi Arabia.
Methods:
We conducted a cross-sectional study of 467 dentists and dental students using a convenience sampling method from seven dental colleges, major governmental and private dental clinics in the Western region of Saudi Arabia. We used a validated self-report questionnaire to collect data and assess the knowledge of, attitude towards and barriers to scientific research.
Results:
The participants (who are dentists and dental students) have a total knowledge score of m=4.57, SD=2.46, which is slightly lower than the midpoint. Participants who work in governmental clinic were significantly (F (2,464) =13.71, p<0.001) more knowledgeable than those who worked in private clinic and the students. Most participants had positive general and personal attitudes toward scientific research. Of the participants, 40.5% to 60.4% were involved in research activities, and 37.3% have submitted or published scientific articles. The most common motive for scientific research was receiving credit for post-graduate application (58.46%). The most common organizational barrier to conduct a research was the difficulty of finding research supervisor (39.19%) and lack of time due to work overload (32.55%). While most common personal barriers were lack of knowledge/skills (38.76%), lack of personal time (36.83%) and receiving credit for postgraduate application.
Conclusion:
Saudi dentists and dental students had a moderate level of knowledge and practice in research, but their attitude was highly positive. More efforts are needed to facilitate scientific dental research including supervisors’ availability and time allocation for research. The study has some limitations including using convenience sample from one region and self-report questionnaire that decreases the external validity of the study and increases the potential for self-reported biases.
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Dadipoor S, Ramezankhani A, Aghamolaei T, Safari-Moradabadi A. Barriers to research activities as perceived by medical university students: A cross-sectional study. Avicenna J Med 2019; 9:8-14. [PMID: 30697520 PMCID: PMC6335879 DOI: 10.4103/ajm.ajm_121_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT The importance of research is revealed by the fact that the top seven science producing countries in the world are the same seven countries worldwide in terms of the research facilities. AIM To explore the barriers to research activities among the students of the Hormozgan Medical University. SETTINGS AND DESIGN A total of 400 students affiliated with the Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences participated in this cross-sectional study. METHODS The sampling method was proportional stratified, and the data collection instrument was a tripartite questionnaire that comprised demographic information, personal barriers, and organizational barriers. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS The data were statistically analyzed by the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software (V.16.0, SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA) using descriptive statistics as well as the independent sample t-test, one-way analysis of variance, and Pearson's correlation coefficient. The level of significance was set at P < 0.05. RESULTS The most prevalent personal barriers were inadequate knowledge of research methodology (2.91±1.24) and inadequate skill in research conduction (2.89±1.36). In the realm of organizational barriers, limited access to information sources was the most prevalent barrier (2.75±2.27). The results showed that researcher students encounter more of the organizational barriers (56.13±13.90), whereas non-researcher students faced more of the personal barriers (53.80±10.95). CONCLUSION Establishing access to high-speed Internet system, raising students' awareness of research methodology through workshops, encouraging and motivating students for research work, and using online sources can help in removing the barriers to research activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sakineh Dadipoor
- Department of Public Health, School of Public Health, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - Ali Ramezankhani
- Department of Public Health, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Teamur Aghamolaei
- Department of Public Health, School of Public Health, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - Ali Safari-Moradabadi
- Student Research Committee, School of Public Health and Safety, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Stone C, Dogbey GY, Klenzak S, Van Fossen K, Tan B, Brannan GD. Contemporary global perspectives of medical students on research during undergraduate medical education: a systematic literature review. MEDICAL EDUCATION ONLINE 2018; 23:1537430. [PMID: 30372403 PMCID: PMC6211259 DOI: 10.1080/10872981.2018.1537430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2018] [Revised: 07/23/2018] [Accepted: 10/12/2018] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The need for increased expertise in evidence-based medicine and concerns about the decreasing numbers of physician-scientists have underscored the need for promoting and encouraging research in medical education. The critical shortage of physician-scientists has assumed a dimension demanding a coordinated global response. This systematic review examined the perceptions of medical students regarding research during undergraduate medical school from a global perspective. METHODS Articles for this review were searched using PubMed, SCOPUS and Cochrane. Studies published within the last 10 years of the start date of the study that met specified criteria were included. Identified articles were initially screened by title as well as keywords and their abstracts were further screened to determine relevance. Full-text of screened articles were read for validation prior to inclusion. RESULTS A total of 26 articles from the literature met the set criteria for final inclusion. Contents of the abstracts and corresponding full-text articles were analyzed for themes on the research perspectives of medical students. The themes derived comprised: research interest, physician-scientist decline and shortage, responses to physician-scientist shortage, curriculum issues, skills (motivation and self-efficacy), research needs, socioeconomic and cultural issues, and barriers. CONCLUSION Despite the wide variations in medical education systems worldwide, the perspectives of medical students on research in undergraduate medical education shared many common themes. Globally, medical students underscored the necessity and importance of research in medical education as reflected by many students reporting positive attitudes and interest in research endeavors. Moreover, a worldwide consensus emerged regarding the decline in the numbers of physician-scientists and the necessity for a reversal of that trend. Various barriers to research engagement and participation were highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- C. Stone
- School of Osteopathic Medicine, Campbell University, Lillington, NC, USA
| | - G. Y. Dogbey
- School of Osteopathic Medicine, Campbell University, Lillington, NC, USA
| | - S. Klenzak
- Graduate Medical Education Department, Cape Fear Valley Health System, Fayetteville, NC, USA
| | - K. Van Fossen
- Graduate Medical Education Department, Cape Fear Valley Health System, Fayetteville, NC, USA
| | - B. Tan
- School of Osteopathic Medicine, Campbell University, Lillington, NC, USA
| | - G. D. Brannan
- School of Osteopathic Medicine, Campbell University, Lillington, NC, USA
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Okoduwa SIR, Abe JO, Samuel BI, Chris AO, Oladimeji RA, Idowu OO, Okoduwa UJ. Attitudes, Perceptions, and Barriers to Research and Publishing Among Research and Teaching Staff in a Nigerian Research Institute. Front Res Metr Anal 2018; 3. [DOI: 10.3389/frma.2018.00026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
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Saeed I, Khan NF, Bari A, Khan RA. Factors contributing to the lack of interest in research activities among postgraduate medical students. Pak J Med Sci 2018; 34:913-917. [PMID: 30190752 PMCID: PMC6115562 DOI: 10.12669/pjms.344.15411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2018] [Accepted: 06/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the factors contributing to lack of interest in research activities among postgraduate residents in pediatric medicine. METHODS This cross-sectional survey was conducted at The Children's Hospital Lahore, Pakistan in August 2017. The questionnaire was distributed to 105 postgraduate residents working in pediatric medicine department and 90 of them returned the completed proforma (response rate; 86%). Data was analyzed by SPSS version 22. RESULTS Out of 90 residents' females were predominant (n=58/90; 64.4%). Mean age of the participants was 28.22 ± 2.092 years. Majority were unmarried (n=57; 63.3%). The highest mean score (2.31±0.697) was regarding "Lack of proper training for research", followed by "lack of previous exposure" (2.26±0.728) and "over loaded curriculum" (2.13±0.753). "Uncooperative faculty" and "funding issues" as a barrier towards research (p=0.016 and 0.014 respectively) was mentioned by males more than females. "Social and family commitment" was a significant perceived barrier in married residents as compared to unmarried residents (p=0.001). The residents in the younger age group were more reluctant to do research due to "over loaded curriculum" (p=0.038). CONCLUSION Lack of proper training of research, lack of previous exposure and time management are the major factors affecting resident's research work, whereas married residents face more social/family constraints as compare to unmarried residents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imran Saeed
- Dr. Imran Saeed, FCPS, MHPE. Associate Professor of Pediatric ENT, Department of ENT &Paediatric Medicine, The Children’s Hospital and The Institute of Child Health, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Nabiha Farasat Khan
- Dr. Nabiha Farasat Khan, BDS, M. Phil, MHPE. Associate Professor and Head of Department Oral Pathology, Dental Section, Dental Section Bolan Medical College, Quetta, Pakistan
| | - Attia Bari
- Dr. Attia Bari, D.C.H, M.C.P.S, F.C.P.S. MHPE. Associate Professor of Pediatric Medicine, Department of ENT &Paediatric Medicine, The Children’s Hospital and The Institute of Child Health, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Rehan Ahmed Khan
- Prof. Rehan Ahmed Khan, MBBS, FCPS, FRCS, JM-HPE, M.Sc. HPE. Professor of Surgery, Islamic International Medical College, Riphah International University, Islamabad, Pakistan
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Sayedalamin Z, Halawa TF, Baig M, Almutairi O, Allam H, Jameel T, Gazzaz ZJ, Atta H. Undergraduate medical research in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries: a descriptive study of the students' perspective. BMC Res Notes 2018; 11:283. [PMID: 29739473 PMCID: PMC5941694 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-018-3381-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2018] [Accepted: 04/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There is a lack of research-oriented physicians in several Arab countries and especially in Gulf region countries. In this context, it is important to explore medical students' perceptions and motivations towards research. The aim of the present study was to investigate research attitude, practices, and motivations among medical students from GCC countries. RESULTS There were 228 students who participated in this study (male 88, females 140). Thirty-eight percent of the students were participating from Saudi Arabia, 20.6% from the UAE, 17.1% from Oman, 12.7% from Kuwait and 11.4% from Bahrain. Among participants, 43.0% had experience of funded research, and 53.1% had a contribution to research. The confidence of participants in their ability to interpret and to write a research paper was quite high (70.2%). The majority of the students (87.3%) believed that undergraduate students could conduct research and can present at conferences. Improving research skills, attaining research publication, and improvement in patient care were claimed as the top three motives for conducting research. The majority (75.0%) were compelled to research to facilitate their acceptance to a residency program and 63.6% due to compulsion for a research methodology course.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaid Sayedalamin
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Taher Fawzy Halawa
- Department of Pediatrics/Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mukhtiar Baig
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry/Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Osama Almutairi
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hassan Allam
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tahir Jameel
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Zohair Jamil Gazzaz
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hazem Atta
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine in Rabigh, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
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Mahmood Shah SM, Sohail M, Ahmad KM, Imtiaz F, Iftikhar S. Grooming Future Physician-scientists: Evaluating the Impact of Research Motivations, Practices, and Perceived Barriers Towards the Uptake of an Academic Career Among Medical Students. Cureus 2017; 9:e1991. [PMID: 29503785 PMCID: PMC5828671 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.1991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the research trends and underlying motivations that shape intentions for the future uptake of an academic career among medical students. Further, to investigate the barriers and sought-after interventions which may optimise research outcomes in a resource-limited setting. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted among 294 undergraduate (UG) medical students in Karachi, Pakistan. A self-administered questionnaire was employed to assess current research practices and future intentions, and to evaluate related motivations, barriers, and sought-after interventions. RESULTS Almost two-thirds of medical students reported some form of involvement in medical research and expressed positive attitudes towards the same. However, intentions to pursue research at a professional level not only remained low (19.7%) but were found to decrease with each passing year of study (p<0.01). The most commonly expressed motivation for pursuing research was "admission into a residency program" (71.8%), and was associated with a decreased likelihood of pursuing research professionally. The most cited barriers to conducting UG research were a "lack of time" (72.4%), "lack of supervisors" (50.3%) and a "lack of opportunities in the university" (48.3%). A dichotomy in sought-after interventions was observed among research-naïve and research-experienced students. CONCLUSIONS Despite promising trends in UG medical research, the intentions for uptake of an academic career remain low. Research practices driven by career enhancement alone may be detrimental. Interventions to increase research output must promote the capacity building of research-naïve students and facilitate the ongoing practices of research-experienced students.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mahnoor Sohail
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS), Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Khwaja Mubeen Ahmad
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS), Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Fouzia Imtiaz
- Biochemistry, Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS), Karachi, Pakistan
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Bhagavathula AS, Bandari DK, Tefera YG, Jamshed SQ, Elnour AA, Shehab A. The Attitude of Medical and Pharmacy Students towards Research Activities: A Multicenter Approach. PHARMACY 2017; 5:pharmacy5040055. [PMID: 29019923 PMCID: PMC5748536 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy5040055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2017] [Revised: 10/07/2017] [Accepted: 10/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: To assess the attitude of medical and pharmacy students in Asian and African universities towards scholarly research activities. Methods: An anonymous, cross-sectional, self-reported online survey questionnaire was administered to medical and pharmacy students studying in various Asian and African universities through social media between May and July 2016. A 68-item close-ended questionnaire consisting of Likert-scale options assessed the students’ research-specific experiences, and their attitudes towards scholarly research publications. Results: A total of 512 questionnaires were completed, with a response rate of 92% from Asia and 94% from Africa. More pharmacy students (70.8%) participated than medical students (29.2%). Overall 52.2% of the pharmacy students and 40% of medical students believed that research activities provided a means of gaining respect from their faculty members. Lack of encouragement, paucity of time, gaps in research activities and practices, and lack of research funding were some of the most common barriers acknowledged by the students. A nonparametric Mann-Whitney test showed that a statistically significant difference was observed, in that more than 80% of the pharmacy students viewed scientific writing and research activities as valuable experiences (p = 0.001) and would like to involve their co-students in scholarly research activities (p = 0.002); whereas the majority of the medical students desired to be involved more in scholarly research publications (p = 0.033). Conclusion: Pharmacy students had good attitudes towards research activities and a higher number of medical students desired to be involved more in research publications. Faculties may consider taking special research initiatives to address the barriers and improve the involvement of medical and pharmacy students in scholarly research activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshaya Srikanth Bhagavathula
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Gondar-College of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Gondar 196, Ethiopia.
| | - Deepak Kumar Bandari
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Vaagdevi College of Pharmacy, Warangal 506001, Telangana, India.
| | - Yonas Getaye Tefera
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Gondar-College of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Gondar 196, Ethiopia.
| | - Shazia Qasim Jamshed
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Kulliyyah of Pharmacy, International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuantan 25200, Pahang, Malaysia.
| | - Asim Ahmed Elnour
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Fathima College of Health Sciences, Al Ain Campus, Al Ain 24162, UAE.
| | - Abdulla Shehab
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, UAE University, Al Ain 17666, UAE.
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Almasry M, Kayali Z, Alsaad R, Alhayaza G, Ahmad MS, Obeidat A, Abu-Zaid A. Perceptions of preclinical medical students towards extracurricular activities. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MEDICAL EDUCATION 2017; 8:285-289. [PMID: 28817380 PMCID: PMC5572427 DOI: 10.5116/ijme.5973.297a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2017] [Accepted: 07/22/2017] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine the percentage of students involved in extracurricular activities (EAs), explore relationships between participation in EAs and students' characteristics, and investigate students' perceptions (i.e., motives and barriers) towards participation in EAs. METHODS An online, anonymous, random, cross-sectional, self-rating survey was administered during spring 2015-2016 to second-year and third-year students (n=340). Chi-square test was used to explore relationships between participation in EAs and students' characteristics. Mann-Whitney U-test was used to compare the mean 5-point Likert scale responses according to students' characteristics. Statistical significance was determined as p<0.05. RESULTS Two hundred thirty-seven students participated in the survey (n=237/340, response rate: 69.7%). Only 143 students (60.3%, n=140/237) participated in EAs, and this percentage significantly differed by gender (χ2(1, N=237)=4.3205, p<0.037), nationality (χ2(1, N=237)=18.7069, p<0.000) and cumulative grade point average (cGPA, χ2(1, N=237)=17.8296, p<0.000). The top three motives towards participation in EAs were: "improve resume" (83.5%, n=198), "improve networking skills" (82.7%, n=196) and "improve teamwork skills" (76.8%, n=182). The top three barriers towards participation in EAs were: "lack of time" (61.2%, n=145), "lack of equal opportunities in EAs" (57.8%, n=137) and "lack of curricular emphasis of EAs" (52.7%, n=125). There was a statistically significant difference of means between male (mean=2.8) and female (mean=3.2) students regarding the following barrier: "affect academic performance negatively" (U=5389.5, p<0.002). CONCLUSIONS The participation rate in EAs was satisfactory, and positively related to students' characteristics of male gender, non-Saudi nationality and high cGPA. Medical schools should facilitate all potential motives and resolve all associated barriers towards participation in EAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mazen Almasry
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Zeina Kayali
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rakan Alsaad
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ghada Alhayaza
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Akef Obeidat
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Abu-Zaid
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| |
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