The cultural and educational activities among students of the School of Health in Isfahan University of Medical Sciences

Pay attention to university student’s cultural and educational activities and educating them to fill their leisure time properly is an important issue. The aim of this study was to evaluate their leisure time activities. In this cross-sectional study, 238 students of School of Health (79.4 percent girls and 20.6 percent boys) selected by random systematic method were enrolled. Information regarding their leisure’s time activities, demographic characteristics, welfare and educational requirements were recorded using a self administered questionnaire. Obtained data analyzed using SPSS software. From studied students, 60.1% were not native, 88.1% used dormitory and 84.9% were single. Mean of the students’ leisure time was 6.4 ± 3.2 hours/day. 31.2% did not participate in the religious–cultural programs and 12.1% always were participated in these activities. Use of library had higher priority. Students’ need for a one day camps, athletic and recreational programs, Quran education and film presentation have considered as their necessities. High percentages of students were unaware of the most welfare services such as educational loans and psychological consultation. Training priority needs of students included literature search methods, appropriate use of computer, professors guide role in solving their educational problems and skills necessary for proper management of their leisure time. Proper planning for fill the leisure time consider as a priority for students. On the other hand, considering that most of them were single and spent most of their times in university and dormitory, university officials need careful planning to fill the students leisure time. Considering the needs of most students such as complete libraries, one-day camps, sports programs, the occasion of various events during the year and teaching the Holy Quran is very important.