The barriers, motives, perceptions, and attitudes toward research among radiology practitioners and interns in Saudi Arabia: a cross-sectional study

Background

Research and the use of evidence-based practices are imperative to the advancement of diagnostic imaging modalities. The aim of this study was to assess the perceptions and attitudes of radiology practitioners (i.e., Technicians, Technologists or Specialists, and Senior Specialists) and interns in King Abdulaziz Medical Cities (KAMCs), Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, toward research, and to explore the various barriers and obstacles that hinder their research efforts.

Methods

A cross-sectional descriptive investigation was carried out from December 2022 to March 2023 among 112-KAMCs' radiology practitioners and interns, using previously developed and validated questionnaire comprised of five distinct sections, each serving a specific purpose, and with a non-probability convenient sampling technique. Descriptive statistics were generated for participants' demographics, and chi-square and fisher's exact tests were used to examine the association between participants' demographics and their involvement in research.

Results

Among the 137 KAMCs' radiology practitioners and interns who were invited to participate, 112 responded and completed the questionnaire, resulting in an overall response rate of 81.75%. Radiology practitioners and interns from various medical imaging subspecialties were found to be involved in research to the extent of 83%, with nearly half (40.9%) of them have had publications, and 53.3% of these publications being either cross-sectional studies or retrospective clinical studies. A lack of time (66.1%), a lack of a professional supervisor support program (50.9%), and deficiency in research skills (45.5%) were common obstacles that may impede the participants' ability to conduct research. The most common motives for participants to conduct research were the desire to improve their resumes (69.6%), get accepted into postgraduate radiology programs (58%), and improve their research skills (52.7%).

Conclusion

KAMCs' radiology practitioners and interns have a positive attitude toward performing research. Despite the high percentage (83%) of those involved in research, the number of publications remains low. A crucial step to advancing the profession's evidence base is engaging radiology practitioners and interns in research and encouraging radiology practitioner-led research. The study findings can serve as a valuable basis for designing developmental programs aimed at overcoming research obstacles among healthcare professionals in Saudi Arabia.

Transition to remote/hybrid learning during the COVID-19 pandemic among Saudi students of the College of Applied Medical Sciences: a cross-sectional study

Background

The novel Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has presented unparalleled and unique stressors and challenges to the field of applied health sciences education. This study explored how the College of Applied Medical Sciences (COAMS) Saudi students perceive the transition to remote/ hybrid learning during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

A cross-sectional exploratory investigation was carried out during the months of February and March in the year 2023 among 196- COAMS Saudi students, using the 48-item previously developed and validated questionnaire, and with a non-probability convenient sampling technique. Descriptive statistics were generated for participants' demographics, and for each questionnaire item and statistical analysis was performed using chi-square test.

Results

Out of the 283 undergraduates who have enrolled in COAMS, a total of 196 students have agreed to participate in the study with an overall response rate of 69.3%. Over 70% of COAMS students were satisfied and engaged in their on-site coursework. Nevertheless, questionnaire data indicates that their satisfaction and level of engagement diminished following the shift to remote learning. More than 62% of COAMS students were satisfied with their instructors' instructional and assessment strategies during on-site coursework, but such perceptions have decreased with remote instruction. Hybrid learning can be beneficial and effective in improving the performance and learning experience of COAMS students. As compared to female students, COAMS male students were more satisfied with remote learning because it met their needs (p = 0.017).

Conclusion

Remote classrooms have lower attendance and interest than on-site classes. Despite lower satisfaction levels in online courses, hybrid learning was viewed favourably by COAMS students. Higher educational institutions should develop plans to increase student involvement, improve academic integrity, and assess the effect of the pandemic on undergraduate education on a regular basis. By incorporating these measures, educational institutions can enhance and support the remote learning experience for their students.