Awareness of importance of research in undergraduate dental students

Abstract

Research can be defined as a study on a particular topic in detail in a systematic and scientific method. The purposes of research are to find something new, to prove or support a theory, to contribute knowledge in a field, or to increase awareness about something. Medical research includes basic research to clinical research which leads to advancement in the pharmaceutical industry, to improve healthcare and public health. Research among undergraduate students will expand knowledge in their field, increases interest in their career and improves their resume for job search. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among undergraduate dental students to evaluate the awareness of the importance of research. The study population in the study are the undergraduate dental students with a sample size of 100. The questionnaire consisted of 20 questions and was shared to undergraduate dental students using online survey platform. 80% of the participants college encourage students to do research, 11% of the students college does not and 9% of the students college partially encourages the students to do research. 48% of the participants said they would continue doing research, 17% said they would not continue doing research and 35% said they might continue doing research. From the results obtained, we can conclude that moderate to a good level of awareness is seen in undergraduate dental students. More awareness should be created and undergraduate students should be encouraged to do research and make the best use of their college years.