Qom University of Medical Sciences Journal

Background and Objectives: Medical science research is one of the most important parts of research in societies, and large research budgets are spent in this area. On the other hands, training researchers in medical universities is one of the important missions of universities. This study aimed to determine the attitude of medical students of Qom University of Medical Sciences towards research.

Methods: This descriptive-analytical study was performed on all medical students of Qom University of Medical Sciences in the first semester of 2015-2016. A total of 150 students were selected by convenient sampling method. Data collection tool included demographic characteristic questionnaire and valid and reliable attitude assessment questionnaire. Data were analyzed using independent t-test at the significance level of less than 0.05.

Results: In this study, 62.7% (N=94) of the subjects were female and 37.3% (N=56) were male. The mean age and grade point average of the students were 21.52 and 18.98, respectively. 54.7% of the students had no collaboration and participation in research activities. The mean score of attitude toward research was about 86.60±7.66. Also, it was determined that only 7% of the students had positive attitude and 98.7% had moderate attitude. There was no significant difference between attitude score based on the gender and history of research activity (p>0.05).

Conclusion: The findings of this study indicated that attitude towards research is not favorable in the students of Qom University of Medical Sciences. Thus, it is recommended to implement motivational program and providing broad information.