Researching the research: Ophthalmology residents’ perspective

Abstract

Background & Objective: To assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of research methodology among ophthalmology residents. Materials & Methods: The study was conducted by sharing a pretested semi-structured questionnaire to ophthalmology residents using an online Google form. Responses were collected, which were analyzed using IBM SPSS software version 28. Results: In our study, 372 responses were analyzed, and among respondents (71%) were females. Most residents had good knowledge (74.2%) and a positive attitude (91.9%) whereas only 64.5% had a good practice. The poor practice was attributed to barriers like lack of guidance (56.7%), lack of orientation (55%), and lack of time (48.3%). Among the participants, only 43.5% had been part of a research work other than a mandatory dissertation and publication. The practice levels were significantly good in respondents with good knowledge (p=<0.001). Residents who had taken part in research activity in their MBBS course has been part of research work in their post-graduation (p<0.001). Conclusion: In our study, we found that ophthalmology residents had good knowledge and attitude towards research methodology but they were unsuccessful in transforming their good knowledge and positive attitude into a good practice because of barriers like lack of guidance, orientation, and time. There is a necessity to encourage Ophthalmology residents to carry out research by providing proper guidance, funds, conducting more workshops, and by including research methodology sessions in all ophthalmic conferences.