Students’ knowledge and attitude towards scientific research at Tbilisi State Medical University

Abstract

Abstract Background Since 2012, Scientific-Research Skills Center (SRSC) of Tbilisi State Medical University (TSMU) conducts “Basic of scientific research skills” course for the students of TSMU. The activities and functions of the center are derived from the competence of basic medical education in the Bologna Process. The center is continuously developing Research-Skills teaching in both, theoretical and practical terms. Objectives We conducted a survey among medical students of TSMU to assess students' knowledge about research and attitudes towards the scientific research prior and after completing “Basics of Scientific Research skills”course; to evaluate the importance of the course and reveal students' possible motivation changes towards becoming future researchers. Results To accomplish this aim, we conducted survey in two phases, before and after completion of the module. 177 students of faculty of Medicine completed the self-administered pre- and post-test anonymously. The possible answers to the questions were graded by 1-5 points (5- maximum). According to the results, 58% of students graded the question about “importance of research” by maximum points in post-tests, as opposed to pre-test (42%). Before undertaking the course, 82% of surveyed students considered research as an integral part of medical science. while, this indicator increased till 92% after the course completion. The survey results also showed that the majority of students (60% pre-test; 74% post-test) are willing to participate in scientific research in future. Conclusions scientific research skills course has a positive impact on the development and advancing scientific research skills among medical students. The course helps students to understand the importance of scientific research in health care. The course needs further development and more emphasis on practical research skills such as fieldwork, students' involvement in ongoing research projects etc. Key messages Our study showed that Tbilisi State Medical University students consider scientific research as an extremely important course in their curricula. Based on our survey findings, SRSC will further improve the course and will strengthen scientific research approaches.