A Survey on the Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Medical and Dental Students of Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences on Research

The education system requires extensive manpower training of researchers. Moreover, importance of research in developing countries to achieve growth in all fields is irrefutable. In this study, the attitude, knowledge, and performance of medical and dental students of Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences on research were assessed. In this descriptive study, 400 medical and dental students of Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences were asked to complete a researcher-made questionnaire which included 16 questions related to attitude, 9 questions related to knowledge, 8 questions related to performance and 3 open questions about research. Data were entered into SPSS software and were analyzed applying Fisher and Chi-Square statistical tests. Based on the results, 237 (87.8%) medical students and 100 (76.9%) dental students responded to the questions. Knowledge of the students was assessed to be low. The majority of them had a good attitude. Research practice was assessed to be below the average level. The knowledge of medical students was higher than the dental students. Medical students, students in higher education levels, single students and students living in dormitories had better attitudes towards research, while female students and dental students had a better research practice. This study showed that the students understand the importance of research and are interested in it but do not truly understand its nature or practice it appropriately. Therefore, it is recommended that necessary plans be carried out to improve knowledge and performance of the students toward research.