Evaluating the publication practices of medical students: A mixed-methods study

Abstract

Purpose Engagement in research and publication helps medical students develop the skills to improve healthcare through evidence-based medicine. The qualitative evidence-base for the medical student experience of publishing is limited. This study aims to explore medical students’ publication practices and understand their experiences of research and publication. Methods The study is based on a mixed-methods convergent design. A survey questionnaire was distributed to medical students in UK medical schools by social media and email communication. We recruited volunteer participants through the survey and interviewed a sample whilst the survey was open. We purposively selected the sample to ensure representation from research-intensive and other universities. Results Survey results indicated that 21.3% (27/127) of respondents had a publication. The most common publication type was a conference abstract. The main motivation to publish was career progression and the main barriers were lack of opportunity or support to submit an article. There was no significant association between attending a research-intensive university and submitting an article. The interviews revealed that contributing to academic advancement was also a motivation to publish. Participants expressed receiving differing levels of support from supervisors and their institutions. Conclusions Data from the interviews suggested that the most commonly perceived barriers identified in the survey (lack of opportunity and support to conduct and publish research) may vary in prevalence between different medical schools. Further research is required to explore how different types of support offered by medical schools affect student engagement in publishing research.