Assessment of Undergraduate Research Experience in Term of Benefits, Barriers and Mentorship from Medical Student's Perspectives: A Mixed Quantitative-Qualitative Approach

Abstract

Objectives This study aimed to assess the potential benefits, barriers and mentorship process of undergraduate research experience at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Khartoum. Methods This study used a mixed quantitative–qualitative approach. The quantitative part was observational, descriptive cross-sectional study design with 900 participants from three classes. The qualitative part used focus group discussions with thematic analysis. Results From 950 students total of the three classes, 900 filled the questionnaire with a 94.7% response rate. The mean age of the participants was 24.7, with 69% females. The most important benefits were understanding the research process in the medical field (mean = 3.42), learning to work independently (mean = 3.35), and ability to read and understand primary literature (mean = 3.31). Accomplishing these benefits is wedged with many challenges which include lack of research knowledge and skills (44%), then mentorship (24%), followed by time management obstacles (21%), and lastly unavailability of funds (5%). Most of our participant's mentors were college or university professors. When evaluated by students; 35% were rated as above average or outstanding, 28.9% were rated about average, and 25% below average or not good mentors. Conclusions Undergraduate research experiences had many well-established benefits. However, many challenges were encountered by students when conducting medical research. These challenges need to be addressed properly in order to maximize the outcomes. Nevertheless, mentorship is a defining feature and can determine the outcome of the whole research experience among undergraduates, which necessitates paying further attention to this factor.