Knowledge, Attitude, and Barriers towards Health Research among Students from Health Science Colleges:  A Northern Saudi Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Advancement in health care is primarily due to health research as well as the active involvement of research participants. Health college students are future health care professionals and their role in research activities is essential for the effective and scientific public health care system. Objectives: This study assessed knowledge, attitude, and barriers towards health research among students from health colleges at Jouf University, Saudi Arabia. Methodology: This cross-sectional study surveyed students from health science colleges of Jouf University. The students’ responses were collected on a self-administered questionnaire. Data analysis was performed by independent t-test, one-way Analysis of Variance, and Pearson's correlation tests. Results: With a response rate of 82.4%, 11.9% of participants belonged to the high knowledge category, 33.2%, and 36.5% were in a positive attitude and high barrier category respectively. The mean knowledge score was significantly lower among students’ who were living alone (p<0.001) and who perceived smartphone addiction (p=0.044). Male students had a lower barrier score compared to females (p=0.035). Lack of time and lack of good research ideas were some of the perceived barriers. The attitude scores were positively correlated with barrier score (r =0.256, p<0.001) Conclusion: Students showed inadequate scientific knowledge and a moderate attitude towards health research. The program should enable student research activities by providing sufficient time dedicated to research. Counseling services on judicious use of smartphones and student self-help groups are other potential suggestions that can help overcome research barriers.