Validation of Research Self-Efficacy Scale for Postgraduate Students of Ferdowsi University and Mashhad University of Medical Sciences

One of the important factors directing research and research motivation is research self-efficacy. The aim of this research is developing and validating a research self-efficacy scale for postgraduate students. Statistical population included postgraguate students in Ferdowsi University and Mashhad University of Medical Sciences. The sample (240 students) was chosen using quota. The researcher-made questionnare had 55 items using likret 5-point scale. Content validity was confirmed by professors and experts. For verifying reliability, we measured internal consistency and for verifying and testing factorial structure, we used confirmatory factor analysis. Factor analysis showed a 7-component structure conformed by theoretical basis and item segregation better than other variations. Factor analysis indices confirmed validity construct and theoretical conformity (RSMEA=0/093، χ2=3794. 69, df=1409). The total Alfa obtained was 0. 97 and 0. 83, 0. 76, 0. 88, 0. 92, 0. 90, 0. 91 and 0. 92 for statistical and analytical, conceptual, methodological, qualitative, reporting, skill and ethical self-efficacy subscales, respectively. In general, results show that research self-efficacy scale has acceptable reliability and validity. Mean of students’ research self efficacy was 173. 76 that is average size. The developed research self-efficacy scale has acceptable reliability and validity. So, it can be used for assessing research beliefs, capacity and attitudes in students