Implementation and effects of a student-engaged medical research curriculum

Abstract

Background This study investigated the educational effects and operational outcomes of a student-engaged medical research curriculum to analyze changes among students. Methods Surveys were administered to 112 medical students to examine the changes in their perceptions of the need for medical research competence, research interest, self-efficacy, and satisfaction levels after the implementation of each curriculum. Results The results revealed a decline in the perception of the need for medical research competency and interest after Medical Research Practice 1, with a subsequent increase after Medical Research Practice 3. Conversely, research self-efficacy showed steady improvement throughout the curriculum. Additionally, students with prior research experience exhibited higher levels of perception of the need for medical research competence, interest, and self-efficacy than those without such experience. Students were highly satisfied with their opportunities to interact with professors in Medical Research Practice courses. Conclusions This study provides foundational insights into the educational effects of integrating student-engaged medical research courses into the regular curriculum, with the aim of cultivating students' research interests and efficacy.