Knowledge, Attitude, and Perceived Barriers of Undergraduate Medical Students Towards Research. A Cross-Sectional Questionnaire-Based Study in Morocco.

Introduction: Research is important for the advancement of the medical field. Integrating research in the undergraduate medical curricula is crucial. Previous studies have explored medical students' knowledge of, attitude towards, and barriers to medical research in different countries. We aim in this study to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and barriers of medical students towards research in a Moroccan medical school.

Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study including all medical students at Oujda Medical School from the first year to their seventh year. Data were collected using an anonymous, self-administered online questionnaire that had been pilot-tested beforehand. The questionnaire was designed to evaluate students' knowledge, attitude, and perceived barriers regarding research. Additionally, we analyzed how students' attitude, knowledge and barriers scores correlated with various sociodemographic variables.

Results: We received 754 completed responses in total. The knowledge score was relatively low, with a median of 2 (IQR 1-3) across 8 questions, indicating limited understanding of research basics. However, the majority of students expressed a positive attitude towards scientific research, with a median score of 3.26 (IQR 3.04-3.5) on ATR scale. Numerous challenges were identified by the students, including time constraints (75.6%), insufficient funding (75%), and inadequate laboratory facilities (72.6%).

Conclusion: Moroccan students displayed a high level of attitude towards research, yet a low knowledge score. This discrepancy may be explained by several perceived obstacles towards research. To enhance students' engagement in undergraduate research, these barriers must be addressed.