AWARENESS, ATTITUDE & KNOWLEDGE REGARDING RESEARCH METHODOLOGY AMONG UNDERGRADUATE MEDICAL STUDENTS: A SINGLE INSTITUTE, DESCRIPTIVE CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Background: In the medical field, research is essential; without the knowledge and abilities to do research, one cannot progress in their career. Increased postgraduate training enrolment, greater employability, and increased output in postgraduate research are all results of research exposure. The objective of the study was to evaluate their attitude, determine their level of awareness, and comprehend their understanding of research methods. Material and Methods: Students from all five academic years of MBBS participated in this cross-sectional study, which was carried out at a medical college in Lahore. Convenience sampling was used to choose the 250 study participants, and a questionnaire-based survey was used to gather data. The awareness, attitude, and understanding of the study approach were evaluated using the various criteria. Frequency tables, bar graphs, pie charts, and line graphs were used to display data. Results: The result showed due to Student’s perception of their limited exposure to research, students in their first two years of study lacked awareness. Because just 34% of students are currently involved in any research projects and fewer than half have actual research experience, research skills grow with exposure to research. while over 80% of them wish to take part in research initiatives. Conclusions: Medical students at the undergraduate level are aware of the advantages of research experience, but they also require a practical grasp of the research methodology. Undergraduate students may not have many opportunities to build their research talents, but they may hone their abilities with the support of their institute's staff and resources thanks to the research-oriented atmosphere.