Self-Reported Competence and Impact of Research Training among Medical Radiography Graduates from a Developing Country.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Research output from radiographers in developing countries is generally low. This could be attributable to a lack of basic research skills. One way of improving this is research training for undergraduate radiography students. The objective of this study was to assess the self-reported competence of graduate radiographers regarding the research skills obtained during their undergraduate training, as well as the impact of this research training to their work. METHODS: A cross-sectional descriptive survey was sent to 70 radiography graduates who had received research training. Data from the radiography graduates were collected electronically using self-administered questionnaires. The questionnaire responses were tallied, counted, and analysis was carried out using MS Excel. RESULTS: The response rate of the radiographers was 71.4%. 70% of the radiographers were males, and 30% were females. 70% of the radiographers reported being competent in identifying a research problem, and 80% rated themselves as competent in formulating a research question. 44% reported being competent in appraising relevant literature, and 64% were able to formulate appropriate conclusions and recommendations from their research work. 76% of the radiographers were involved in some research activities in their places of work, and 50% of them expressed willingness to continue engaging in research activities. CONCLUSIONS: Most of the graduate radiographers who participated in this study reported being competent in research skills attained, with over 50% willing to continue engaging in research activities.