Research Competencies of Medical University Teachers: Evaluation, Perception, and Perspective

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Research competence is one of the important competencies of a medical teacher.
 AIM: The aim of study was to evaluate the research competencies teachers (n = 90) by online questionnaires.
 METHODS: The questionnaire assessed transferable research skills, research-specific skills (research design, data collection, and analysis), research experience, attitude, and motivation to conduct research.
 RESULTS: About 55% of respondents are fully aware of the research activities at their university. Higher rates in transferred skills were established: Teamwork (average score 8/10: 55.5%), and ability to collect information (average score 8/10: 47.9%). Low general skills (project management and time management) are 15.6% and 12.2% of the teachers surveyed. Low indicators of specific research skills of biostatistics (average score 1/4–18.9%) and article submission (average score 1/4–13.2%) were revealed. Competence of male teachers is higher than that of women in their transmitted information collection skills (Z = 2.6, p = 0.008), evaluation of information (Z = 2.4, p = 0.015), and problem solving (Z = 2.3, p = 0.02). Specific research skills did not depend on the gender and affiliation to the department. Most teachers understood the term “research” as “the process of obtaining new knowledge,” and “experimenting and/or testing hypotheses.” Skills require improvement: Biostatistics skills, design definition, preparation of abstracts, and articles. Most respondents showed high motivation (71.1%) to conduct research.
 CONCLUSION: The research competencies of university teachers’ need to be improved. It is necessary to focus on the integration of special research skills in programs on all levels of education.