Perception, Attitude, and Practice Toward Community Research Among Medical Students in Hadhramout University, Yemen 

Abstract Background Research is an important element in the improvement of the quality health services provided to the public. It is documented that, globally, medical students apply research in their school life. This study aimed to assess perception, attitude, and practice toward community research among medical Students at Hadhramout University. Methods This is a cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among medical students in Hadhramout University in Al-Mukalla district, Yemen during the academic year 2016-2017. A self-administered pilot-tested questionnaire was used for data collection to assess perception, attitude, and practice toward the community research during the educational year 2016-2017. Result A total of 265 completed responses were received. The majority had a low Knowledge score (72%). However, the majority had a positive attitude toward research (90.9%). Eighty-three reported participations in research work. However, (44.4%) expressed research interest. Many barriers were highlighted by students including; lack of time (78.4%) and lack of training in statistics (75.9%). Conclusion the majority of students had a positive attitude toward research. However, the majority of them had low knowledge scores. Also, some barriers need to be evaluated to improve the involvement of students in research activities. Lack of time was seen to be the most significant barrier to pursuing research.