Journal of Research in Medical Education & Ethics

The implementation of research component is important at student level as it helps to develop a judicious insight in their academic and clinical practice. Quality of research can be improved by orienting Indian Medical Graduates at an early stage.

To teach research methodology using pre-validated module including protocol writing. To analyse impact of knowledge and protocols prepared by students and feedbacks of students and teachers.

This educational interventional study was conducted for 6 months of duration. Twenty-eight volunteer students of 4th and 6th semesters and five faculty members were enrolled by purposive sampling technique. Research methodology module was developed by peer review and validation followed by teaching of module to under-graduate students. Students were assessed using validated pre and post-test questionnaire followed by feedback from faculty and students. After 2 weeks 4 groups of 7 students each submitted their protocols. Protocols were reviewed by faculty members using pre-structured checklist.

Pre-test scores (3.5±1.12) were compared with post-test scores (7.0±1.10) and there was statistically significant improvement among students after the teaching through research methodology module. Feedback from students suggested that 71.5% students agreed that these classes enhanced their interest in research and 89.3% approved that they will be interested in similar session in future. Faculty feedback suggested that these sessions motivated students for research.

Knowledge of students regarding research methodology improved significantly after teaching and hands on training through modules. Research methodology should be included in the undergraduate curriculum for early exposure of students.