Student Attitudes Research Articles

Knowledge, perception, and attitude toward premarital screening among university students in Kurdistan region–Iraq

Premarital screening programs are essential for identifying and providing counseling to couples at risk of transmitting genetic diseases or sexually transmitted infections. Despite their importance, university students’ awareness and knowledge of premarital screening programs remain inadequate. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes of university students in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq regarding premarital screening programs. A cross-sectional survey involving 960 students was conducted from December 2023 to February 2024. The survey assessed participants’ demographics, knowledge, perception, and attitudes toward PMSP using a structured questionnaire. Findings revealed that a significant portion of participants (39.4%) had poor knowledge of premarital screening programs, 35.9% had fair knowledge, and only 24.7% had good knowledge. Despite limited knowledge, there was strong support for premarital screening programs, with 83.1% agreeing on its importance and 78.8% recognizing the need for premarital awareness. Most participants (65.8%) believed premarital screening programs could reduce genetic diseases, and 65.6% thought it could lower sexually transmitted diseases’ prevalence. Cultural acceptance of marrying relatives was notable, with 59.7% disagreeing with the preference for not marrying relatives. Married participants showed significantly higher knowledge and attitude scores compared to single participants. Gender differences were observed, with males having higher knowledge scores. There were no significant differences in perception and attitude scores based on gender or residential area. The study underscores the need for enhanced educational campaigns to improve premarital screening programs awareness and positively influence attitudes, especially targeting cultural aspects like accepting relative marriages. Comprehensive education and fostering positive attitudes toward premarital screening programs are vital for their broader acceptance and implementation.

Social communication in modern society: experience of empirical research

This article was prepared by a team of authors of the sociological faculty of Moscow State University named after M.V. Lomonosov as part of a series of events dedicated to the 270th anniversary of Moscow University. The article was based on the processed and analyzed data of the sociological study “Social Communication in Modern Society: Essence and Features”, conducted by employees of the Sociological Faculty of Moscow State University named after M.V. Lomonosov under the guidance of the Dean of the Sociological Faculty of Moscow State University, Professor N.G. Osipova in April–May 2024. As part of the study, a total of 401 students of the sociological faculty of Moscow State University named after M.V. Lomonosov. Particular emphasis in the study was placed on the study of the features of the understanding by students of the sociological faculty of the very fact of the transition of mankind in its development to a new stage for it — the electronic-digital era, as well as the features of social communication and the opportunities that they acquired, thanks to the onset of this era. The study revealed a generally positive attitude of students to the process of the formation of an electronic-digital society, the active introduction of digital technologies into the daily life of a modern person, without which young people can no longer imagine their existence. At the same time, their active immersion in virtual reality, which is provided and actually created by new media, especially social networks and instant messengers, naturally led to the emergence of Internet addiction, gadget addiction, as well as to uncritical comprehension of the information that they receive from these sources. Naturally, this has a very negative effect on the formation of their life attitudes, landmarks, which are largely consumer in nature, and also makes them a very convenient object for destructive propaganda and manipulative influence.

Determining the Knowledge and Attitude of Medical Intern Students about the Effect of Periodontal Diseases on Systemic Diseases

Background: Periodontal diseases are prevalent chronic multifactorial conditions that significantly affect individuals' quality of life across various dimensions. Additionally, the association and impact of periodontal disease on systemic health have been a focus of medical attention for many years. This influence is particularly recognized as a risk factor in several conditions, notably coronary artery disease. Consequently, enhancing awareness and improving the attitudes of healthcare professionals toward this association is of great importance. Numerous studies have been conducted to evaluate the level of awareness and attitudes regarding this impact. This study has investigated the knowledge and attitude of medical intern students of Kashan University of Medical Sciences. Methods: In this descriptive study, a knowledge of the effect of periodontal disease on systemic diseases and their attitude towards periodontal in medical interns of Kashan University of Medical Sciences, a total of 160 people who were selected by census method, were investigated using a questionnaire based on the study by Thomas and Pralhad in 2011. The obtained data was analyzed by SPSS software with independent t-tests, one-way analysis of variance, and Pearson's correlation coefficient. Results: A total of 160 medical interns were surveyed. There was a significant positive correlation between the age of students and their attitude toward periodontal health (p=0.024). Additionally, the student's knowledge and attitudes toward periodontal health were not significantly associated with the level of information abo ut periodontal disease or the predominant source of oral health information (p>0.05). Moreover, knowledge of the impact of systemic diseases or conditions on periodontal disease was significantly correlated with awareness of the impact of systemic diseases on periodontal health (p<0.001). Furthermore, attitudes toward periodontal health showed a significant positive correlation with knowledge of the systemic impact on periodontal disease (p<0.01). Conclusion: The results of the study indicated that the participant's knowledge regarding the impact of periodontal disease on systemic health is moderate. While the majority of participants assess their knowledge about periodontal issues as insufficient, they believe that clinical and theoretical education related to this topic should be included in the curriculum of their studies. Furthermore, they express a positive attitude toward acquiring more information and education on this matter.

Data-Driven Learning in EFL Grammar: Student Attitudes and Teacher Perceptions in Bangladesh

Data-Driven Learning in EFL Grammar: Student Attitudes and Teacher Perceptions in Bangladesh

Effectiveness of Film Media in Improving Students' Knowledge and Attitudes Towards Clean and Healthy Living Behavior (PHBS) at Darul Fikri Islamic Boarding School Sungai Belidak

Introduction: Clean and Healthy Living Behavior (PHBS) is a set of behaviors practiced based on awareness of learning outcomes. Public health can be improved by changing behavior from unhealthy to healthier. Health education is needed to increase awareness, willingness, and ability to live healthily. Health education methods are generally carried out through lectures and presentation media. The use of visual and audiovisual media can attract the attention and focus of targets, thereby increasing effectiveness. Objective: This study aims to improve the knowledge and attitudes of students about PHBS in the Darul Fikri Sungai Belidak Islamic Boarding School environment. Method: This study used a quasi-experimental design with a one group pretest-posttest design approach. It was conducted at the Darul Fikri Islamic Boarding School, Sungai Belidak from July to October 2024, with a population of all students. The sample consisted of 30 respondents taken using a purposive sampling technique. Data analysis was carried out using univariate and bivariate analysis using the paired sample t-test. Results: The average value of pre-test knowledge was 8.93, while the post-test increased to 12.23 (difference 3.3). The average value of pre-test attitude was 44.60, while the post-test increased to 48.77 (difference 4.17). Before education, 40% of students had good knowledge, increasing to 76.7% after education. The good attitude of students increased from 46.7% to 73.3%. The paired sample t-test showed a sig value of 0.000 (p <0.05) for knowledge and 0.019 (p <0.05) for attitude, which indicated a significant influence of PHBS education using film media. Conclusion: It can be concluded that there is a positive influence between attitudes and knowledge towards PHBS education in Islamic boarding schools using film media. PHBS counseling through film media is very effective in improving the knowledge and attitudes of students, so that students are expected to be able to learn and understand knowledge well.

The next generation of physician-researchers: undergraduate medical students' and residents' attitudes, challenges, and approaches towards addressing them.

Undergraduate medical education and residency training are critical periods for conducting research. Medical diagnoses and therapies are direct results of successful research efforts that have advanced several scientific fields. This review highlights the importance of incorporating scientific research training into the curricula of undergraduate medical education and residency programs. We utilized key databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar to conduct a narrative review of English-language articles published between 2002 and 2024. Ultimately, we selected 49 studies that examined the attitudes of undergraduate medical students and residents toward research, the common challenges they encounter while participating in research activities, and the strategies that support and encourage their involvement, all in alignment with our study objectives and keywords. In addition, we identified several relevant themes, including the value of research experience in shaping well-rounded medical professionals; the integrity of research practices in residency selection, which addresses concerns such as the arms race and misrepresentation, as well as the balance between quality and quantity; striking a balance between research and clinical training while promoting equity and inclusion; and effective programs and mentorship strategies to enhance research engagement. Translating the positive attitudes of undergraduate medical students and residents into improved knowledge and practice necessitates the development of structured mentoring programs and advanced training systems. Institutions must provide the necessary tools, guidance, and support to overcome research barriers. This will help establish an environment in undergraduate medical education and residency training that values research, facilitates access to it, and integrates it into the curriculum. To address the critical shortage of physician-researchers and improve evidence-based medical practice, it is crucial for medical schools to focus on research education and create avenues for student involvement. By tackling research challenges and implementing supportive strategies, these efforts empower the next generation of physician-researchers to embrace research, contribute to medical progress, and uphold the highest standards of patient care.

Innovative Game-Based Teaching Methods for Promoting Nursing Students' Cultural Competence and Attitudes Toward Refugees: An Explanatory Sequential Mixed Study.

Nursing cultural competence is crucial for enhancing the quality of care for refugees. While innovative game-based teaching methods have been used to foster in a wide range of clinical competences, little is known about its use on refugees' care. This study aims to evaluate the effect of these methods on nursing students' cultural competence and attitudes toward refugees. An explanatory sequential mixed design was conducted from March to May 2023. One-hundred forty-one nursing students participated. There were no statistically significant differences in total Outgroup Threat Perception Scale and Cultural Competence Assessment Scale scores between the experimental and control groups, pre- or post-intervention. However, students reported increased awareness and empathy for refugee issues. The study showed that innovative game-based teaching methods effectively increased nursing students' awareness of health-related issues faced by refugees. It recommends incorporating transcultural nursing courses into curricula and professional training, with updated content on migration and refugee issues.

Faktor-faktor Yyng Mempengaruhi Rendahnya Motivasi Belajar Siswa

The low motivation to learn varies depending on the goals to be achieved in the learning process at school. The level of motivation can be seen from the attitude of students during teaching and learning activities. Motivation to learn can arise or change influenced by various factors. According to Dimyati & Mudjiono (2002) factors that influence learning motivation include students' ideals or aspirations, individual abilities, personal conditions, student environment, dynamic elements in the learning process, and teacher efforts in teaching. This study aims to describe: 1) Factors that influence students' low motivation to learn in terms of factors: a. students' ideals or aspirations, b. students' abilities, c. students' conditions, d. students' environmental conditions, e. dynamic elements in learning and teaching, f. teachers' efforts in teaching students. The method used in this study is quantitative with a descriptive research type. The research sample was 69 students of SMK Pariwisata Aisyiyah Padang in grades X, XI, and XII who were registered in the 2024/2025 academic year who were selected based on the Total Sampling technique. Data were obtained by distributing research instruments in the form of questionnaires on factors that influence low student learning motivation that have been tested for validity and reliability. Data were processed using the Percentage Technique. The results of this study indicate that: 1) factors that influence low student learning motivation are reviewed from the following factors: a. Student ideals or aspirations: difficulty in determining interests and talents (56.62%), b. Student abilities: difficulty focusing on processing lesson materials (47.83%), c. Student conditions: difficulty attending school due to health problems (44.93%), d. Student environmental conditions: avoid talking to deskmates (39.13%), d. Dynamic elements in learning and teaching: easily distracted by things around them that hinder the ability to focus on lesson materials (46.38%), e. Teacher efforts in teaching students: teachers do not provide good examples in learning discipline (44.93%). The implications of guidance and counseling services that can be provided are information services, individual counseling services and group counseling services.

Is Your Syllabus Trauma Informed?

Recognizing the limitations of existing trauma-informed education approaches, this research emphasized the need to address systemic issues and societal inequalities. The study documents a transformative process undertaken by the author in the Spring semester of 2023, involving a meticulous reevaluation and rewriting of course policies using Shevrin Venet's (2021) four proactive priority questions. The article explores student perceptions of the equity-centered trauma-informed education through surveys conducted at the beginning and end of the semester, revealing positive shifts in student attitudes towards the implementation of the four priorities. The findings suggest that a thoughtfully crafted and trauma-informed syllabus can contribute to a positive learning environment, emphasizing predictability, flexibility, empowerment, and connection. Through this inquiry, the article contributes to the ongoing discourse on bridging the gap between theoretical frameworks and practical application in trauma-informed pedagogy within teacher education.

Assessment of Knowledge and Attitude about Medical Negligence and Law Related Medical Practice among Para-Clinical and Clinical Medical Students

Background: Knowledge of medical negligence and law related medical practice is mandatory for all healthcare professionals. The objective of the study to gaze the extent of knowledge and attitude of undergraduate medical students regarding this. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted during the period from July to October 2023 on 300 para-clinical and clinical medical students of Chattagram Maa-O-Shishu Hospital Medical College (CMOSHMC). A pretested questionnaire was used and data analyzed by SPSS V.22. Results: Out of 300 respondents from medical students of phase II, phase III and phase IV MBBS, the number of students were predominantly female and religion were Islam. The age range of the participants was from 20 – 25 years. Conclusion: The undergraduate medical students had a reasonable knowledge and positive attitude towards medical negligence and law related medical practice. However, the teaching of medical negligence and law related medical practice should be part of the medical curriculum to strengthen these attitudes. This will expose the students to the training classes using real case scenarios, workshops and seminars on medical negligence and law related medical practice, so that once they become doctors, they are not face difficulty in dealing with ethical issues. IAHS Medical Journal Vol 7(1), June 2024; 4-7

Online Teacher Professional Development: A Research Synthesis on Effectiveness and Evaluation

AbstractThis study presents findings on the effectiveness and perception of teacher professional development in online-only and blended learning (BL) formats. The analysis of a total of 115 studies from the research field of online teacher professional development (OTPD) showed that digitized training predominantly led to positive effects on teachers' competencies and teaching practice. Among some of the other positive impacts of OTPD were improvements in students' learning performance, attitudes and motivations, and teachers' self-efficacy; though these aspects were considered much less frequently overall. Despite individual criticisms and suggestions for improvement, OTPD courses were endorsed by teachers. In terms of the take-up amongst participants, online-only and BL formats scored similarly, with the inclusion of synchronous phases, collaborative activities, and support activities proving to be decisive criteria for evaluation. In context of support activities, the involvement of an instructor was found to be effective, although it became clear that it is not only the presence of an instructor that matters, but also the way in which he is involved in the OTPD activity (Lantz-Andersson et al. Teach Teach Educ 75:302-315, 2018 ). A basic open attitude towards OTPD was also held by the training staff, even when complications and difficulties were pointed out.

Knowledge and Attitude on Neonatal Resuscitation Among Nursing Students: A Cross-Sectional Study.

This study assesses nursing students' knowledge and attitudes toward neonatal resuscitation. This cross-sectional study was conducted at a nursing college in June 2024. Participants were selected through purposive sampling. Data on knowledge and attitudes toward neonatal resuscitation were collected using self-administered web-based questionnaires. Statistical analyses were used to examine the comparisons, correlations, and predictors, including t-tests, ANOVA, Pearson correlation tests, and binomial logistic regression. Statistical analyses showed that 45.2% of nursing students had moderate knowledge, 39% had good knowledge, and all exhibited positive attitudes. BSc nursing students, those with prior neonatal resuscitation training, and those who had witnessed or performed resuscitation had significantly higher knowledge (p ≤.001). III-year Diploma students, those aged 22-23, and students with 6-10 days of NICU/labor room posting also had higher knowledge (p ≤ .001, p ≤ .005). Additionally, BSc students and those with prior training displayed significantly more positive attitudes (p ≤ .001). A moderate positive correlation was found between knowledge and attitude, with key predictors being labor room posting duration for knowledge and exam marks for attitude. This study highlights the need for improved neonatal resuscitation education and training of nursing students to improve outcomes and reduce mortality rates among newborns. To ensure effective newborn care, educational programs can be designed to target specific areas such as clinical exposure and resuscitation training. Comprehensive training initiatives aligned with international guidelines are vital for developing proficient neonatal resuscitation practices. Such proactive approaches can help build a cohort of competent healthcare professionals who can deliver timely and effective interventions, thereby ensuring the well-being of newborns.

Roles of Personal Values and Information Technology Usage in Forming the University Students’ View of Environmental Sustainability: A Preliminary Regional Study of Economics and Business Students

This study focuses on two significant factors shaping university students’ perception of environmental sustainability. Those are (a) personal values, measured by the Portrait Values Questionnaire (PVQ) and (b) the usage of and proficiency in information technology. Personal values have been widely used to analyze individual perspectives toward various issues, including environmental ones. As contemporary social arrangements include significant influences from social networks and mobile phone usage, overall engagement with technology becomes an essential factor affecting university student attitudes and behaviors. While the individual impact of those factors can be found in the extant literature, we look into their interaction concerning university student pro-environmental attitudes, measured by the Revised NEP (New Ecological Paradigm) Scale, and their environmental self-efficacy. Our sample comes from the population of undergraduate business and economics students from Central and Southeast Europe, specifically Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, and Montenegro. We discuss our findings in the context of previous studies from the same regions and consider the unique socio-economic factors. The research results address Sustainable Development Goals 4 (quality education), 12 (responsible consumption and production), and 13 (climate action) by analyzing the factors contributing to university student pro-environmental attitudes and their self-efficacy in the context of their information technology usage and proficiency.

Student use of Generative AI

Despite the potential and challenges of generative AI (GenAI) in higher education, there remains a significant gap in empirical research to guide strategic decision-making. Current studies are often conceptual or small-scale explorations of staff and student experiences, ranging from analyses of the potential advantages of GenAI, through to expressions of serious concerns about risks for higher education (e.g. Chan & Hu, 2023). Large-scale and comprehensive, data-driven investigations remain rare, however. In particular, there is a need to explore the experiences of students, to better understand what they know, how they are using GenAI, why they are using it, and their attitudes about the use of AI in their studies, by their educators and in their future lives (e.g. Lodge et al., 2023; O’Dea, 2024). This Pecha Kucha reports on the second phase of a multi-institutional collaborative project. The project’s overall research question is ‘How do university students make meaning about GenAI in relation to themselves as learners?’ The first phase involved focus groups at each university, followed by a large-scale online survey. The analysis of the focus group data informed the design of a cross-sectional survey to explore students’ perspectives on GenAI on topics such as knowledge and access, use and usefulness, and attitudes. The survey development was an iterative and significant undertaking. Current literature was unable to provide a comprehensive picture of student use and attitudes. Given the rapidly changing GenAI landscape, we were also aware that student experience and attitudes are contextually dependent and may also evolve quickly. Whilst valuable, existing studies have not connected the varied dimensions of the student experience we seek to investigate. While keeping these studies in mind, this project used a grounded thematic approach to build its own survey instrument, beginning with 4 focus groups of 11 scholars to identify the key issues which needed to be explored within the Australian university context. This stage was followed by iterative development of the survey, in which over 200 suggested edits were provided by 17 scholars as well as a reference group of Deputy/Pro-Vice Chancellors. When completed, the survey was piloted by undergraduate students. The anonymous online survey was conducted in the second half of 2024 at four Australian Universities located in Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland. Human Research Ethics Committee approval was granted at each University prior to conducting this study. The data is currently being collected. To date, the survey has been completed by 8,340 students. The Pecha Kucha will present key descriptive data on selected components of the survey including student knowledge and access, GenAI literacies and skills, perceptions of use and usefulness, and motivations and barriers for when they choose to (not) use GenAI. We will present findings of the whole sample, as well specific equity groups who may have experienced disadvantage or under-representation. For example, preliminary analysis already indicates significant differences in the ways in which international students use and trust generative AI. The findings will provide an evidence base to inform policies and practices that leverage GenAI's benefits while mitigating its risks.

Attitudes of Newly Recruited Icelandic Police Students Towards Diversity

Scholars have described prejudice towards various minority groups as one of the negative characteristics of police culture. Visible prejudice within the police has serious consequences for trust and legitimacy, thus reducing the willingness of the public to cooperate with them. However, little is known about the attitudes of police students towards police work in a diverse society in the Nordic context. This paper focuses on newly recruited police students in the Icelandic police university program. Police students’ attitudes towards diversity are analyzed in the context of various possible work-related scenarios. The study is based on a survey of all newly recruited police students in Iceland, conducted yearly from 2018 until 2023. The findings indicate that police students are generally positive towards at least certain types of diversity measures in policing, although support for diversity has declined slightly in the most recent year.

COOPERATIVE LEARNING TECHNOLOGIES AS A MEANS OF IMPROVING THE PROFESSIONAL TRAINING OF NURSES IN AUSTRIA

The article examines the use of cooperative learning technologies in the professional training of nurses in Austria. It is emphasized that the nursing profession in Austrian society has a high social rating, a pronounced personal and humanistic orientation, іt is a separate profession, where a nurse is an independent specialist in the health care system. It is emphasized that in the conditions of increasing the range of functional responsibilities and of the professional activity of medical specialists, cooperative learning technologies allow not only to improve practical skills, but also to develop the clinical thinking of future nurses, to adapt them to non-standard situations, to work out all the necessary stages of their activity. It is noted that the advantages of cooperative learning are the improvement of students' academic results, development of their ability to think critically and have non-stereotypical perception of other people, positive psychological climate in the group, studentsʼ desire for cooperation and constructive socialization, the presence of an empathetic reaction, mutual support, sympathy and friendly relations in the team, and positive attitude of students to studies, teachers and educational institution, etc. Unlike traditional forms and methods of educational activity, cooperative learning helps to achieve not only cognitive, but also motivational and emotional goals, develops the ability to take responsibility for oneʼs own learning, that is, the ability to independently organize the learning process.

Demographic Factors Associated with Students' Belief and Attitude towards Physics and Learning: A Cross-Sectional Study from Indonesia

Students' Belief and Attitude (BA) towards physics and learning are believed to influence student performance in learning. Identification and exploration of students' BA are crucial aspects in supporting the quality of physics learning. The Colorado Learning Attitudes about Sciences Survey (CLASS) is an instrument that is widely used to identify and explore students' beliefs and attitudes towards physics and learning. However, few studies have investigated the relationship between each categories of CLASS and the impact of demographic characteristics (gender, study program, school origin, interest in becoming a teacher, and length of study) on student beliefs. This study aims to fill in this gap. Using CLASS to measure these beliefs and attitudes among 439 physics students and prospective physics teachers from 11 universities. The survey data was analyzed with the Pearson Correlation, Mann-Whitney U, and Kruskal-Wallis tests. Overall, the results obtained show that all belief and attitude categories are significantly interconnected. Apart from that, there is also a positive and significant relationship between categories. This indicates that the three categories have demonstrated to be capable of constructing BA as a whole. However, no significant differences were discovered in the association between students' belief and attitudes towards physics and their learning based on demographic characteristics.

Knowledge, attitudes and practices of the healthcare staff and students about disposal of unwanted medications: a systematic review

Abstract Introduction Improper disposal of medications poses a significant environmental risk on the ecosystems and human beings1. When medicines are discarded by flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the household trash, their active components may leak into the water supply2. Aim This systematic review seeks to compile studies that examine healthcare professionals' and students' knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding medication disposal. It also aims to explore recommendations and barriers related to appropriate medication disposal. Methods A systematic review was conducted by adhering to guidelines outlined in Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses 2020 and the Joanna Briggs Institute. The primary outcome is to measure the levels of the healthcare staff and students' knowledge, as well as their attitudes, and practices about disposal of unwanted medications. Authors included qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-method primary research studies. Participants included pharmacists, doctors, nurses, and both undergraduate and postgraduate medical, pharmacy, and nursing students due to their significant involvement with medication and its disposal in healthcare settings. Data extraction was conducted by four of the researchers independently. The study details were categorised into three main domains i.e., knowledge, attitude, and practice using the KAP model. Other relevant information was also extracted, thematically, such as challenges and recommendations. Ethical approval was not required as this systematic review used previously published data. Results 37 studies from 18 countries (21 from Asia, 7 from the US, 5 from Africa, and 2 each from the EU and South America) met the inclusion criteria. 86.5% (n=32) investigated participants' knowledge of medication disposal. Although there is a good level of awareness about the environmental impacts, there are significant gaps in knowledge regarding correct disposal methods, available services, guidelines, and training. 30 studies explored participants' attitudes toward medication disposal. The results indicate a generally positive attitude towards the need for environmentally safe disposal practices. 35 studies evaluated participants' practices in relation to medication disposal. Although there was generally a positive attitude and some understanding of appropriate disposal methods, majority of the participants do not follow the practice guidelines, especially outside healthcare settings. This inconsistency may be due to numerous factors such as inadequate practical training, limited resources, or unclear guidelines. Discussion/ Conclusion Overall, it was found that while healthcare staff and students have fair knowledge and positive attitudes toward medicine disposal, their actual practices are lacking. One significant challenge identified is the limited awareness about proper disposal methods coupled with a lack of established services or guidelines in many regions. Even in cases where take-back programs are available, they often face issues with accessibility. To tackle these challenges, it is suggested by the studies that governmental bodies should establish and enforce clear policies on medication disposal while also expanding educational initiatives to increase understanding among healthcare professionals and students about appropriate disposal methods. Furthermore, improving access to take-back programs is crucial for ensuring safe medication disposal and minimising potential environmental and health hazards.

Undergraduate health science students’ knowledge, attitudes, practices, and perceived barriers towards research at Kuwait university: a cross-sectional study

Abstract Introduction Research is the most reliable strategy to advance scientific understanding and enhance multiple healthcare services1. Integrating undergraduate health science students into research at an early stage is an important step towards improving critical thinking and problem-based solving, which in return enhances patient health outcomes2. Aim The aim of this study was to assess undergraduate health science students’ knowledge, attitudes, practices and perceived barriers towards research at Kuwait University. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among undergraduate health science students from the Colleges of Pharmacy, Medicine, Allied Health, Dentistry, and Public Health at Kuwait University. A self-administered online questionnaire consisting of five sections was used. The first section included questions to assess the demographic characteristics. The second section aimed to assess the knowledge of undergraduate students regarding basic research (score = low ≤3, moderate 4-5, high >5). The third section assessed attitude toward research by a five-point Likert scale (score = negative 31-75, neutral 76-110, positive 111-155). The fourth section of the questionnaire aimed to assess the perception of the barriers toward research practice (score = low 0-50, moderate 51-75, high 76-100). Finally, a section with eight questions on research practices. The questionnaire was distributed through online educational and social media platforms, such as WhatsApp and Microsoft Teams. Students from any academic year and who were enrolled as health science students at the time of the study were eligible to participate. The questionnaire was pilot tested prior to distribution. The recommended sample size was calculated using Raosoft (344 students)3. Ethical approval was received from The Health Sciences Ethical Committee, Kuwait University (reference: VDR/EC-393). Results A total of 364 undergraduate medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, allied health and public health students participated in the study. The participants were from different academic stages, ranging from first-year to seventh-year. The results showed that the students possessed moderate knowledge levels, with a median of 3 out of 8 according to the scoring system of the study. Most students had neutral attitudes (N=253; 69.5%) and moderate levels of perceived barriers (N=200; 54.9%). Medical and pharmacy students had significantly higher knowledge levels compared to the others (p<0.001; Kruskal-Wallis). The majority of students agreed that the lack of time is a barrier towards conducting research (N=237; 65.1%). Almost one half of the study participants took part in research projects (N=175; 48.1%) and a promising number of students had publications or poster presentations (N=67; 18.4%). Discussion/Conclusion The results suggest that undergraduate health science students at Kuwait University possess moderate research knowledge and have neutral attitudes towards research. Time constraints were the most frequently reported barrier to participation. While nearly half of the students participated in research projects, implementing mandatory research projects and providing research methodology workshops could significantly enhance student knowledge, attitudes, and future research engagement. A key limitation in this study is that observed relationships may not reflect long-term shifts in knowledge, attitudes, or practices. The study was also conducted in one university (Kuwait University), therefore the findings and results cannot be generalized to other undergraduate students.

'Let's work together to pass medical school': a qualitative study of medical student attitudes to teamwork, competition and collaboration.

Teamwork is vital to all types of work, and graduates of higher education programmes must be prepared to contribute to a wide variety of professional teams. This is especially true in healthcare, where graduates will work in multidisciplinary teams (MDTs) under considerable pressure. This study is a follow-up to a previous study, where we described how competition between students is a barrier to constructive teamwork. Since then, we have made considerable enhancements to our transferable skills curriculum, moved away from norm referencing, and there have been national changes to the way that graduate Foundation training places are allocated. Here we present findings from a qualitative study of students from all six stages of our medical degree programme (5 years plus predegree foundation year). We explored whether there had been changes in how students perceived the importance of teamwork, their own teamwork development and how they collaborated with their peers. Following analysis of in-depth, semi-structured interviews, five themes emerged: (a) competition between students; (b) importance of teamwork; (c) what makes effective teamwork; (d) preparing for work in MDTs; and (e) recommendations for teamwork education. Competition between students was perceived as both positive and negative, but there has been a shift since our last study towards collaboration, with students now more willing to help each other succeed. Students also show more insight into their teamwork development, and were able to discuss what aspects of the programme, and higher education more broadly, were most valuable in helping them develop.