Developing research knowledge through special study module: Notes from year 2 medical students

Introduction Special Study Module is a mandatory research project implemented in some medical curriculum. For the successful application of evidence-based practice, physicians must understand research methodology before the appraisal of relevant evidence. The objective of this paper is to provide a brief overview of the effectiveness of student research modules in enhancing research understanding. Methods Second-year students of undergraduate medical programs were included in this study. At the beginning and after completion of literature review type research projects, the same student cohort completed a questionnaire comprising sections on perceived competency, attitude, and knowledge on research skills. Data from 163 participants who completed both pre and post-survey were analyzed. Results Paired t-test revealed significant differences in self-perceived knowledge, attitude, and assessed knowledge of the subjects before and after completing the research modules. Multivariate analysis also displayed a significant increase in self-perceived and assessed knowledge by carrying out the project. No significant association was exhibited by gender and ethnicity. Conclusions In summary, the research module improved students’ understanding of research methodology as well as the structure of scientific communication. Further studies to assess the effect of various types of research modules in different study populations are warranted.