Utilization of three‐dimensional framework theory in identifying the motivational factors for selecting a postgraduate dental specialty–A pilot study

Abstract

AbstractObjectivesThree‐dimensional framework theory classifies factors influencing career selection into intrinsic, extrinsic, and interpersonal dimensions. The objectives of this pilot research were to assess the psychometric properties of a scale encompassing factors affecting post‐graduation specialty selection according to three‐dimensional framework theory and identify motivational factors that affect dental students’ and interns’ choice of post‐graduation specialty.MethodologyA closed‐ended self‐structured research instrument consisting of a list of 19 factors was presented to dental students and dental interns at Margalla Dental College, Rawalpindi, Pakistan, and Islamic International Dental College, Islamabad, Pakistan (n = 235). Exploratory factor analysis and Cronbach‐alpha (α) were used to assess the construct validity and reliability (internal consistency) of the scale respectively. Descriptive analysis and non‐parametric tests were used for data analysis with a level of significance at ≤0.05.ResultsA 3‐factor solution with 11 items was stabilized. Cronbach‐alpha of the pilot study turned out to be 0.72. With a response rate of 92.15%, the most common motivational factor affecting post‐graduation specialty selection was the Intrinsic factor “personnel joy and motivation to work hard.” Dental interns and male participants were more likely to select the post‐graduation specialty due to intrinsic motivational factors (p < 0.05). Inspiration from the family member and supporting the family also influenced male participants and interns respectively (p < 0.05). Female participants preferred to choose a less saturated field (p < 0.05). A medium positive statistically significant correlation was observed between the interpersonal motivational factor “inspiration by a teacher” and the choice of “basic sciences” as a post‐graduation specialty (p < 0.01).ConclusionThis pilot study resulted in the development of a scale with a 3‐factor solution stabilized at 11 items. The internal consistency of the scale turned out to be 0.72. Oral and maxillofacial surgery was the first choice of post‐graduation chosen by 35.5% of the respondents. Fellowship was chosen as the preferred type of post‐graduation by 46% of the respondents. Irrespective of gender and designation, the top most influential factor, chosen by 88.5% of the respondents, was the intrinsic motivational factor “personal joy and motivation to work hard.”