A Mechanism for Increasing the Performance of Medical Students

Introduction: In order to stand second in the field of science and technology, research-related activities of students need to be promoted. The aim of this study was to explain the views and experiences of students regarding research. It also tried to recommend strategies for increasing the students' participation in research activities. Method: A qualitative study with 50 students of Golestan University of Medical Sciences was performed during 2011. Purposeful sampling with maximum diversity was used to select participants. Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted to achieve data saturation. All participants were asked at least two open questions: "What does the word research bring to your mind?" and "What concessions will increase the quality of research performed by students?". Content analysis was used to analyze data. Results Applied research", "novel laboratory research", "benefits of research for the society", "providing the students with support and empathy", and "motivation" were among the derived themes. Participants considered a student as an individual sincerely eager to seek the development of the country through science and research. Most participants complained that the results of different studies are not applied in the community. Conclusion: Students anticipate support and empathy from their teachers. They want to learn competency. Performing duplicate research and not using the obtained results would despair young researchers. Therefore, the current research-related culture among young students requires to be promoted.

A Mechanism for Increasing the Performance of Medical Students Keywords:

: research , Student , Medical , content analysis , Knowledge translation