Investigating the Tendency towards Research in the Curriculum of a Paramedical Faculty

Abstract

Background: Today, conducting research is among the most important skills in medical sciences, and plays a significant role in terms of improving students' learning and their career prospects. This study aimed to evaluate the research factors in the curriculum of paramedical faculty at Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences in Yazd, Iran. Methods: The statistical population included the students at the paramedical faculty of Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences in 2019. Simple random sampling was applied and 224 students were selected. The research instrument was a researcher-made questionnaire. Its validity was determined based on the opinions of professors and experts, and its reliability was measured at 0.87 using Cronbach's alpha. Results: From the paramedical students' viewpoints, a number of research factors in the curriculum like individual factors (1.70), motivational factors (2.05), service delivery factors (2.11), and cultural administrative factors (1.78) are not in a favorable situation (P<0.05). Besides, in terms of prioritization, the service delivery factors of research in the curriculum have the greatest importance, and the individual factors have the least importance. Conclusion: The authorities, curriculum planners, and medical practitioners must take the necessary measures to enhance the presence of research factors in the curriculum of paramedical students.