Abstract

Background: Undergraduate level research orientation and student participation in research activities are a step toward enhancing their knowledge, communication, and problem solving skills. There is a dire need to sensitize the undergraduate medical students toward medical research so that they are able to take better clinical decisions to tackle new threats to the global health in future.

Aim and Objectives: The aim of the study was to assess knowledge, attitude, and practice of undergraduate second professional medical students toward medical research.

Materials and Methods: A questionnaire based cross-sectional study in medical undergraduates was conducted among 2nd professional MBBS students by conducting research methodology workshops for 2 consecutive years. Pre-workshop and post-workshop questionnaire was filled by students and assessment and comparative evaluation of knowledge, attitude, and practice of MBBS students toward medical research was undertaken.

Results: About 86.8% students became aware of government or private organization involved in promoting medical research post-workshop as compared to 7.6% pre-workshop (P < 0.001). About 96.7% students became interested in conducting/being a part of research project post-workshop as compared to 79.1% pre-workshop (P = 0.01). About 91.2% students felt that research training should be a part of medical curriculum post-workshop as compared to 78% pre workshop (P < 0.05). About 56% students want to pursue career in research post workshop as compared to 31.8% preworkshop (P < 0.01).

Conclusion: Undergraduate MBBS students are aware that knowledge and positive attitude toward research is crucial for enhancement of medical education. Research orientation and training programs must be put into practice by the institutes to improve student participation in research.

Key words: Medical Research; Research Methodology Workshop; Knowledge; Attitudes; Practices