The approach and function of university students to research process: A cross sectional study

The approach and function of students can consider as a basis for future intervention in order to improve and enhance their attitude and function. So, this study purposed to detect the attitude and function of university students to research process in Semnan University of medical sciences.
A cross sectional study was designed to measure the attitude and function of 190 students of Semnan University of medical sciences (Seman, Iran) toward the research process. Data were gathered by a Likert handmade questionnaire with 27 items. Finally, data were analyzed by descriptive and inferential statistics.
Results showed 60 percent of students were interested to research process. The students’ attitude was positive to following items: “promoting science by research in human world”, “meaning of research as integrating factor of past experience with science for a better future”, and “scientific research as a complementary for learning”. The most practice of students was related to items such as: “accompanying with teachers in research projects”, “presence in scientific congress or seminars”, and “membership in the student research center and research methodology workshops”. Also, least students’ function was related to items such as “paper publication in scientific journals”, “participation in research, and “as a main researcher in research projects”.
In regards of interesting of students to research process, holding classes of research methodology, collaboration of faculty members with students, and removing limitations to research acivities, can change the attitude and of students.