Undergraduate Training in Research – New Perspective in Eastern Europe

Abstract

Objective The undergraduate training in research represents the elementary base of a quality medical research. The level of undergraduate research training varies from one university to another. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the demands and opportunities in research training in Eastern Europe. Methods A questionnaire with 20 items concerning the research training was done and distributed by email or direct contact to key persons in academic teaching in undergraduate training in five Eastern European countries. The same questionnaire was distributed to students from medical schools from mentioned countries. Results The interest in questionnaire and response rate was lower in teaching staff and higher in students. A quantitative and qualitative analysis was done. The high variance from one university centre to other in the same countries was underline. At the item of interest in research training both trainees and staff sustain the need in training. The courses, workshops and seminars are ranked as highly important by teachers. Learning practical skills like how to do a poster or a presentation, to write an article, a CV or a research project is most appreciated between students. The demand on qualitative research is impaired by low number of opportunities of undergraduate training in research, especially in practical skills and tutoring. Conclusions The awareness on weak and strengths of different educational model could be the starting point in reform in undergraduate training in research.