A Study on Perception, Practices towards Research and Predictors of Research Career among UG Medical Students and Interns in the PES Medical College Savanthe Aruna Marati1, Patel Prakash Kurubarahalli2,* 1Postgraduate Student, Department of Community Medicine, PESIMSR, Kuppam, Andhra Pradesh, India 2Associate Professor, Department of Community Medicine, PESIMSR, Kuppam, Andhra Pradesh, India *Corresponding author email id: drprakashkp@gmail.com
Abstract Background: In recent years, there has been a decline in the number of new researchers worldwide due to many factors. Advances in biomedical research during the last decade have highlighted the necessity of attracting greater number of physicians to careers that include the research component. Objectives: To understand the awareness, skills, perceptions and practices among the undergraduate (UG) medical students and interns towards research. Material and Methods: A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was carried out at the PES Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Kuppam, Andhra Pradesh, India. A pre-tested questionnaire examining their awareness, perceptions and practices towards research in the medical field was used during the month of November 2012. The student participation was voluntary and included 5th, 7th and 9th term students and all interns present on the day of the study. The data were computed and analysed using SPSS version 19 software. Results: A total of 349 students responded, giving a response rate of 78%. Nearly 55% students believed that research is very important, but only 45.8% found time for that apart from their regular course. Only 20–30% took part in the research activities due to lack of time, support and guidance. Nearly half of them (53%) opined that research was a good career option for a doctor. Conclusions: Good training and student support programmes exclusively for research would motivate the students to opt for research careers. Top Keywords Cross-sectional study, Perception, Predictors, Medical students, Research. Top |